Biodiversity Assessment of Sal-Dominated Forests and Riparian Ecosystems in Dumka District, Jharkhand, India

This independent field research report by Kulesh Bhandari, a biodiversity researcher and field ecologist from Jharkhand, India, documents the structural, floristic, and hydrological characteristics of Sal (Shorea robusta)-dominated forests and riparian habitats along the Nakti River in Dumka district. Conducted on 30 June 2025, the study employs GPS-referenced photography, transect walks, and habitat observations to create a detailed baseline for future biodiversity monitoring. It highlights vegetation structure, microhabitat features, ecological threats, and conservation recommendations, accompanied by high-resolution photographic plates. The work aims to support ecological research, conservation planning, and policy-making in the Santhal Pargana uplands. Contributors: Kulesh Bhandari (Author) License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) Keywords: Biodiversity researcher, Sal forest, Riparian ecology, Dumka, Jharkhand, Santhal Pargana, Field ecology, Shorea robusta, Conservation, Independent research