Assessment of Plant Biodiversity in Mokhada, Palghar district, Maharashtra

Mokhada located in Maharashtra's Palghar district, is home to a variety of vulnerable and indigenous species. This study intends to explore the plant biodiversity through analysis of floristic composition, particularly in Mokhada region of Palghar district to document its floral richness. Floristic composition was evaluated by means of field surveys in Suryamal, Deharje and Khodala village in Mokhada region. A total of 90 species belonging to 72 genera and 39 plant families were reported in the region. Out of the identified species in the selected region, Tectona grandis and Aegle marmelos have been described as an endangered and near threatened species respectively. as per IUCN red list. The current study highlights the significance of localised conservation initiatives and advance our understanding of the ecosystems connected with the Western Ghats.