Floristic structure of an abandoned quarry in Kozhikode district, Kerala, India

Floristic studies were conducted at the Neradukunnu Pachathuruth, an eco-restoration site established by the Haritha Keralam Mission in an abandoned laterite quarry region, at Perumanna Grama panchayath of Kozhikode district, Kerala, India. A total of 98 flowering plant species comprising of 47 herbs, 16 shrubs, 15 climbers and 20 trees could be enumerated, which included 46 species of medicinal plants also. The majority of the species were having Indo-Malesian and Tropical American distribution. There were 19 endemic species. One species was endemic to India, while 11 species also had an extended distribution to Sri Lanka. Nineteen species enumerated were not reported in the Kozhikode district flora. The importance of conducting comprehensive biodiversity research and continuous monitoring, and the need to find adequate funding for the upkeep and expansion of these eco-restoration zones and their conservation are also discussed.