Reassessment of population and conservation status of ‘critically endangerd’ Phlomoides superba (Royle ex Benth.) Kamelin & Makhm. from the Lower Shiwalik foothills of Udhampur district of J&K (UT), India.

Abstract

Phlomoides superba (Royle ex Benth.) Kamelin & Makhm. is a critically endangered tuberous herb of the western Himalaya with a highly restricted distribution in India. The present study reassessed its population status and major threats in the Jallow and Khathil Gango localities of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir. A total of approximately 412 individuals were recorded from the two sites. Populations occurring along roadsides, stream margins, and agricultural field boundaries were small and fragmented, whereas a comparatively large and vigorous population was observed in the relatively undisturbed habitat at Khathil Gango. Habitat destruction, agricultural expansion, residential development, and road widening were identified as the major threats. Although local communities are aware of the traditional medicinal and veterinary uses of the species, no active tuber harvesting was reported during the study. The findings highlight the importance of habitat protection, regular population monitoring, community participation, and integrated in situ and ex situ conservation measures for the long-term survival of P. superba.