Vegetation structure and carbon stock of the corridor forest threatened with mining, linking the Similipal-Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Odisha, India

Tropical forests play a vital role in carbon sequestration and act as natural buffer against the impact of climate change. However, these forests are decreasing due to various anthropogenic activities. In the present study, we determined the vegetation composition, tree biomass, and carbon stock (above ground) of tropical deciduous forests connecting the Similipal and Satkosia Tiger Reserve of Odisha. We documented a total of 128 tree species, 47 species of shrubs, and 56 species of herbs in the study area. The tree density was 365.47 ± 13.96 individuals ha-1, and Shannon’s diversity of 2.32. The density and diversity of shrubs were 808.78 ± 30. 9 individuals ha-1 and 2.42, respectively. The density of saplings and seedlings (2980.36 ± 113.8 individuals ha⁻¹) was considerably higher than that of mature trees, indicating active regeneration. The average above-ground biomass was estimated at 130.5 ± 22.9 Mg ha⁻¹, corresponding to a carbon stock of approximately 62.9 ± 34 Mg C ha⁻¹. Overall, the corridor forest connecting the Similipal and Satkosia Tiger Reserve supports high diversity and moderate tree density, with a good regeneration status. The estimated value of above-ground biomass and carbon stock highlights the value of these forests in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. The continued mining activity and its expansion, along with developmental activities, may cause irreversible damage to the corridor forest. Thus, there is an urgent need to protect this corridor under the ambit of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), with active participation of local communities.