Structural and Floristic Associations of Lion-Tailed Macaques in Kerala's Tropical Evergreen Forests

Asia hosts a diverse range of forest ecosystems, and plant phenology in these regions is significantly shaped by both climatic conditions and evolutionary history. According to Mohandass et al. (2016), the timing of plant phenological events influences biological processes at various levels, from individual organisms to entire ecosystems. Gaikwad et al. (2014) compiled a comprehensive list of flowering plant species in the Northern Western Ghats of India and examined their IUCN conservation statuses. Their analysis revealed that 159 plant species in this region are endemic, with 18 classified as endangered. Past studies were referenced for data collection in these assessments. Trees play a vital ecological and cultural role in forest ecosystems, providing essential resources for local and tribal communities. In Palakkad district, Kerala, Remesh et al. (2016) documented the ethnobotanical uses of tree species among tribal populations, highlighting their importance for food and medicine. Understanding the interdependence between trees and wildlife is crucial, particularly for arboreal species such as primates that rely on trees for both nourishment and shelter.