Prioritization of species for conservation of forest genetic resources in Karnataka

The genetic resources that are preserved within and among tree and other woody plant species are critical to their adaptation and evolutionary processes, as well as for enhancing their resilience and output. Human population growth, land use changes, and climate change all pose a threat to the forests of the Western Ghats in general, and Karnataka in particular. To address these concerns, decision makers and stakeholders require precise data on the status and trends of forest genetic resources (FGR) to enable long-term management. The Indian Council of Forest Research and Education's (ICFRE) project on FGR species (NPCD-FGR -National Program for Conservation and Development of Forest Genetic Resources) is noteworthy in this regard, and this correspondence deals with the prioritization of important FGR species found in the forests of Karnataka for future conservation, management, and research & development processes.