Diversity and Dynamics of Seasonal Pool Vegetation in Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram, Kannur District, Kerala, India.

doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-5169003/v1

The present study was conducted in the seasonal pond at Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram (Northern side of Kannur District), Kerala, India during June 2022 - October 2023. The pond is renowned for the range of microhabitats and temporal dynamics that support a broad diversity of vascular plants. A total of 53 plant species were recorded and herbs dominated with a share of about (48 spp.) Of these, 16 species were endemic and many highly threatened as per the IUCN Red List criteria. Results of soil analysis were high organic carbon, enough magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) low potassium (K), sulfur(S) and boron(B); there are above resistance iron(Fe) and above tolerance levels of manganese (Mn). It indicates the potential anthropogenic impacts. The water analysis revealed a pH that was slightly acidic, and total dissolved solids were low with moderate conductivity and nutrient levels of the irrigation solution. These findings underscore the ecological significance of the Nediyenga pond, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts to manage soil nutrient imbalances and maintain water quality to supports its unique biodiversity.

Seasonal pond

Biodiversity

Soil nutrient analysis

Water quality conservation

Seasonal ponds, prevalent in many forested areas, are vital wetlands known for their high biodiversity, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species. Their small size, varied vegetation, and settings make ponds difficult to identify, yet vital for maintaining forest ecosystems [1]. The ecological, hydrological, and biogeochemical dynamics of these ponds are intricately linked to the surrounding uplands, making them highly sensitive to forest management practices, land use changes, and nutrient input [2].

Hydroperiods, which define the duration of flooding, are particularly important in determining the classification of seasonal ponds as wetlands, with criteria varying between federal and state regulations[3]. These ponds exhibit key wetland characteristics, including hydric soils and wetland vegetation [4]. Their small size and variable hydrology create dynamic ecosystems, distinct from other wetland types. Seasonal ponds often reach their maximum size and depth during spring, influenced by seasonal precipitation and storm events, while interannual variability in hydroperiods may be driven by climate change [5, 6].

Seasonal ponds serve as critical habitats for amphibians and invertebrates, supporting species like wood frogs, salamanders, and fairy shrimp. These ponds' responses to forest disturbances are not well understood, though buffer zones may mitigate some impacts from harvesting [7, 8].

The unique ecological features of seasonal ponds, especially those on laterite plateaus, provide valuable insights into the adaptation of flora to challenging environments. In our study of the laterite plateau seasonal ponds in Nediyenga, Kannur, Kerala, we aim to document the plant species that thrive in this delicate ecosystem. Understanding and cataloging the flora will contribute to the broader field of ecological research and inform future conservation efforts. This exploration not only enhances scientific knowledge but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the resilience of these unique ecosystems.

Nediyenga is a village under Sreekandapuram Municipality (Lat 12.065046°, Long 75.478398°) in Irikkur Block, Taliparamba Taluk, Northern Kerala. Historically part of the Mushika Kingdom, the village has a diverse population of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians and was a key center of the Malabar migration. Agriculture and business are the main occupations, with exports including rubber, pepper, and arecanut. A major portion of this area is laterite plateau. Notable landmarks include the K.G. Subrahmanyam Kalagramam, an artist village, and the Mar Sebastian Valloppilly Memorial Migration Museum. The Kerala government is developing Kalagramam as a global artist village through the Kerala Lalithakala Academy. (Fig- 1 and 3)

3.1 Selection of study area

Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram, Kannur district is selected as the study area.

3.2 Field survey

Frequent field visits were conducted from June to October in the study area. Plants were collected freshly. Identified by using local Flora, monographs, online resources and were consulted to experts to confirm and identity of each species. Leaves, flowers, fruits and overall plant structure is used for identification. Recorded the identified plant species with its current status. Created a detailed plant collection log that includes the identified species and their characteristics.

3.4 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of soil

3.5 Determination of soil P^H [9]

Measure 10g of soil into 100ml beaker. Add 25ml of water. Mix intermittently by using glass rod for about 30min. Measure the pH of soil suspension after calibration of pH meter.

3.6 Determination of organic carbon in soil [10]

Take 0.5g of soil (0.2 mm sieved) in a 500ml conical flask. Add exactly 10ml of 1N potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂0₇) solution. Add 20ml of concentrated sulphuric acid along the sides of the conical flask, shake well for a minute and allow to stand for half an hour. Add 200ml of water to stop the reaction. Add 2–3 drops of ferroin indicator. Titrate it against 0.5N ferrous ammonium sulphate solutions till the colour changes to green then finally to wine red. A blank titration is also to be carried out (without taking soil): Note the titer values of both sample (S) and blank (B).Calculate the organic carbon.

3.7Determination of available phosphorous in soil [9]

Weigh 5g soil to 250 ml conical flask and add 50ml of Brays No.1 reagent into it. Shake it for 5 minutes. Thereafter filter the contents using Whatman No.42 filter paper. Pipette out 5ml aliquot of the filtered sample into a 25ml volumetric flask. Add 4ml ascorbic acid and make up the volume to 25ml using distilled water and shake the content well. Read the intensity of blue colour using spectrophotometer at 660 nm. The concentration of available phosphorus is calculated from the standard curve.

3.8Determination of electrical conductivity of soil [9]

Take 10g of soil sample and add 25 ml of distilled water in a 100ml beaker. Stir the content occasionally for 30 minutes. Dip the cell in the solution /supernatant. Record the EC in dSm^− 1.

3.9Determination of available potassium in soil [11]

Transfer 5g soil in to 250ml conical flask. Add 25ml of neutral normal ammonium acetate. Shake the contents on a shaker for 5 minutes and filter it. Standardize the instrument using 20, 40, 60 and 80ppm potassium standard solutions. Read the test sample.

3.10Determination of exchangeable calcium and magnesium in soil [9]

For calcium and magnesium, transfer 5ml of ammonium acetate extract into a porcelain dish. Add 5-10ml of buffer complex to get a pH of about 10. Add 10 drops of EBT indicator. Titrate the contents with standard EDTA till pink colour changes to blue colour. Note down the titer value as TV₁. For calcium only, transfer 5ml of ammonium acetate extract into a porcelain basin. Add 5-10ml of 10% NaOH solution to attain a pH of 12 or more. Add a pinch of murexide indicator. Titrate against Std. EDTA solution till the orange red colour changes to light blue colour. Note down the titer value as TV2.

3.11 Determination of available sulphur in soil [12]

Weigh 10g soil and transfer into a 250ml conical flask. Add 50ml of 0.15% CaCl₂, solution into it. Shake it for 30 minutes. Filter the contents using s using Whatman No.42 filter paper. Pipette out 10ml aliquot into a 25ml volumetric flask and add l ml gum accasla a pinch of barium chloride in to it. Shake well and read the turbidity using spectrophotometer at 420 nm.

3.12 Determination of available micronutrients (iron, manganese, zinc and copper) in soil [13]

Weigh 2g soil and transfer to a conical flask. Add 20ml of 0.1M HCI. Shake the contents for 5 minutes and filer it using Whatman No. 42 filter paper. Collect the filtrate and estimate the contents of Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu using atomic absorption spectrophotormeter.

3.13 Determination of available boron in soil [14]

Weigh 20g of soil in a quartz or boron free 250ml conical flask. Add 40 ml of hot boiling distilled water. Add a pinch of activated charcoal and keep it for cool at room temperature. Filter through Whatman No. 40 filter paper. Pipette out 1ml aliquot and add 2ml of buffer solution, 2ml azomethin-H solution to it. Read the test solution using spectrophotometer at 420nm.

3.14 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of water [15]

3.15Determination of carbonate and bicarbonate in water sample

Take 5ml of water sample in a 100ml porcelain dish and add 20ml of distilled water. Add 2 drops of phenolphthalein indicator. If pink colour appears titrate against 0.01N H₂SO₄. Add 2 drops of methyl orange, this will develop a yellow colour and titrate against acid till it turns orange red which indicates the end point.

3.16 Estimation of P^H and EC of effluent/ water samples

P ^H

Take 25 ml of effluent or sewage sample is taken in 50ml beaker and P^H value is directly read using P^H meter after standardizing the meter with buffers of P^H 7.0, 4.0 and 9.2.

3.17 EC

Take 25 ml of effluent or sewage water is taken in a 50 ml beaker and EC is measured directly using a conductivity meter after calibrating it with 0.01N KCl.

3.18 Total dissolved salts (TDS)

TDS = EC x 640 mg/liter.

3.19 Estimation of chloride content in water

Pipette out 50 ml of the water sample into a porcelain dish. Add few drops of potassium chromate indicator and titrate against 0.1N AgNO₃ till the flesh red precipitate of silver chromate appears. From the amount of 0.1N AgNO₃ consumed, calculate the chloride content.

Soil and water analysis were done from Kerala Agricultural University, College of Agriculture Padannakad

These procedures were carried out in the seasonal pond of Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram in Kannur District of Kerala from June 2023 to October, 2023. Seasonal ponds can be widespread in forest landscapes, but how they respond to disturbances in their surrounding upland forests is poorly understood. These ponds offer extremely important ecosystems for native plants that provide all the food, oxygen and shelter to many other animals. There are 3 zones where pond vegetation grows: the bank side, marsh and aquatic zone; some plants prefer different water requirements.

Seasonal ponds are common in forests, but their response to nearby disturbances is not well understood. A pond, unlike rivers still contains water and supports native plants, which provide food, oxygen, and shelter for wildlife. Plants grow in zones: species such as great willow herb and meadow sweet thrive in the damp bank-side zone, emergent plants grow near the edge in the marsh zone, and true aquatic plants live in the water, either floating with dangling roots or anchored in the mud.

During the study at Nediyenga, a total of 53 (53%) vascular plants belonging to 47 genera and 34 families were documented. Among these angiosperms were the dominant group with 51 (96%) members, while pteridophytes were dominant group 2 (4%). With respect to their habit, there were 48 (90.5%) herbaceous plants, 3 (5.6%) shrub plants and 2 (3.7 %) climbers(Fig 2). Among angiosperms, dicots comprised 23 families, 34 genera and 38 species while monocots comprised 9 families, 11 genera and 13 species. The dominant family was Rubiaceae with 4 species followed by Linderniaceae, Commelinaceae and Eriocaulaceae with 3 species each. From the seasonal pools 20 (38%) plants were identified and rest of the plants were collected from close plant associates. (Table1,Fig-4,5 and 6 ).

The endemic species included Neanotis subtilis (Rubiaceae), Cyanotis burmanniana, Murdannia semiteres (Commelinaceae), Utricularia cecilii (Lentibularaceae), Eriocaulon eurypeplon, Eriocaulon reductum (Eriocaulaceae),Rotala malabarica, Rotala malampuzhensis (Lytheraceae), Justicia nagpurensis, Lepidagathis keralensis (Acanthaceae), Parasopubia hofmanii (Orobanchaceae), Polygala elongata (Polygalaceae), Impatiens minor (Balsaminaceae), Canscorinella stricta (Gentianaceae), Hemidesmus indicus (Apocyanaceae), Heliotropium marifolium (Boraginaceae) and Sesamum indicum (Pedaliaceae). Species that are confined to Western Ghats include Cyanotis burmanniana, Rotala malampuzhensis, Eriocaulon reductum, Osbeckia muralis and Utricularia cecilii. According to the IUCN status, the threatened species are Blyxa octandra and Curculigo orchioides; the critical endangered species are Rotala malabarica and Utricularia cecilii. There were 21 least common species and the status of 28 species were not confirmed (Table1 and Table 2)[16].

The physical and chemical characteristics of the Nediyenga soil are given in Table 2. When we analyzed the pH, it was acidic with a value of 4.02. The soil acidity (pH 4.02) indicated a relatively acidic environment. This might affect nutrient availability to plants and microbial activity. Certain crops have specific pH preferences, and if not within the optimal range, this could impact plant growth. A high organic carbon content is generally positive, as it contributes to soil fertility and structure. It promotes microbial activity and nutrient retention, enhancing overall soil health.

The electrical conductivity was normal and determined to be 0.27ds/m. The organic carbon content was high at 3.3%. The phosphorous content was medium intermediate at 12.57kg/ha. The potassium content was determined to be low with 112 kg/ha and this deficiency led to wilting on dry days. The sulphur content was low with value of 3.0ppm and causes yellow colouration of old leaves. The soil is calcareous with a normal value of 640ppm. The magnesium content was determined to be adequate with a value of 124 ppm. The boron content was low 0.112 ppm which led to a reduced number of flowers. The zinc content reaches an adequate value of 8.8ppm. The iron content is high at 37.9ppm. Excess iron causes leaf discolouration and stunded root system. The copper concentration was 1.38ppm which is adequate. The manganese content was determined to be relatively high at 15.6 ppm which led to chlorosis in young leaves and necrotic dark spots on mature leaves (Table 3).

The high pH, iron and manganese contents, and the low potassium, sulphur and boron contents in the laterite pool indicate that anthropogenic activities occured in this region.

The physical parameters such as the p^H value of Nediyenga were 5.6 and the total dissolved solids concentration was 76.8ppm. The conductivity in natural water is a normalized measure of water’s ability to conduct electric current. The electrical conductivity is 0.12dS/m. The chemical parameters such as the bicarbonate content are 0.4meq/L and the chloride content is 1meq/l. The potassium content of the water is 3.9ppm and that of the copper is 0.0272 ppm. The content of iron in the water is 0.149ppm. Carbonate and zinc were not present in the water sample(Table 4).

Lateritic plateaus are known for their challenging environmental conditions, which promote the growth of specialized vegetation adapted to harsh habitats. These conditions shape the seasonal vegetation patterns, with many plant species completing their life cycles during the monsoon. Porembski and Barthlott suggest that lateritic plateaus can be considered model ecosystems, similar to oceanic islands [17]. The plateau features various microhabitats shaped by terrain and soil, primarily supporting herbaceous plants. It experiences three seasons: pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon, with climatic variations contributing to distinct vegetation development. Muller highlights significant fluctuations in environmental conditions on rock outcrops, including lateritic crusts [18]. The vegetation of lateritic plateaus shows similarities to tropical inselbergs, with classifications such as cryptogamic crusts, epilithic plants, rock pools, and ephemeral flush vegetation, as observed by researchers like Watve, Lekhak, Yadav, and Bhattarai [19, 20, 21].

In our study area there were 53 vascular plants identified in which 48 species were herbs. According to Pramod et al almost all species are herbaceous and most of them complete their life cycle in a short period, as the pools dry up. From Nediyenga we had collected 16 species (31%) which were endemic. About 37 percent of the species identified from the seasonal pools of Madayippara plateau are endemic to different geographic areas and many are under different threat categories. The notable and dominant species in the seasonal pool are Geissaspis spp., Isachne veldkampii, Murdannia spp., Neanotis subtilis, Rotala spp., Eriocaulon spp., Utricularia spp., Blyxa spp., Drosera indica, Lindernia spp., Nymphoides krishnakesara, Oryza rufipogon, Rhamphicarpa longiflora, Fimbristylis spp., Wiesneria triandra etc. [22].

Maintaining soil nutrient levels within an optimal range is essential for promoting soil health and plant growth. Addressing deficiencies or excesses by adjusting soil pH and managing nutrients can resolve issues identified through soil analysis. With a pH of 4.02, the soil is relatively acidic, which may affect nutrient availability and microbial activity, impacting plant growth, especially for crops with specific pH requirements. High organic carbon content is beneficial, enhancing soil fertility, microbial activity, and nutrient retention. However, the high pH, iron, and manganese levels, along with low potassium, sulfur, and boron, suggest ongoing anthropogenic activities in the lateritic region.

The water's pH of 5.6 indicates slight acidity, which could affect aquatic life and suggest the presence of acidic substances. Total dissolved solids (TDS) at 76.8 ppm are relatively low, indicating fewer dissolved minerals, which is positive for water quality. Conductivity, a measure of water’s ability to conduct electricity influenced by dissolved ions, is 0.12 dS/m, within the normal range, suggesting moderate ion concentration. Electrical conductivity helps assess water purity, with excess salts potentially coming from poor irrigation, runoff, or discharges [23]

Bicarbonate at 0.4 meq/L indicates moderate alkalinity, while chloride levels at 1 meq/L are low, suggesting minimal contamination from industrial or sewage sources. Potassium, essential for life, has a concentration of 3.9 ppm, within acceptable limits for drinking water. Copper at 0.0272 ppm is low, posing minimal health risks, although long-term exposure to higher levels can be harmful. Iron at 0.149 ppm is low, but higher concentrations could lead to discoloration and taste issues. The absence of carbonate and zinc is a positive indicator, as high levels of these can harm water quality.

In summary, based on the provided parameters, the water from Nediyenga appears to have relatively good quality. However, it's crucial to consider local water quality standards and regulations to determine if the values meet the specified criteria for various uses, such as drinking water or agricultural purposes. Additionally, periodic monitoring is essential to ensure continued water quality.

Lateritic plateaus possess significant conservation value due to the presence of numerous endemic and habitat-specific species. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness regarding this aspect has resulted in the construction of roads, buildings, and mining activities on the plateaus, primarily for laterite bricks. The rich biodiversity of the lateritic habitats in Northern Kerala remains inadequately documented, with limited representation in published floras.

The study highlights Nediyenga's diverse plant life on lateritic plateaus in Northern Kerala, but botanists and conservationists have largely overlooked its ecosystem and flora.Over the past few decades, these highly diverse habitats in Northern Kerala have been subjected to various anthropogenic disturbances. Nediyenga, consist of a vast area of laterite plateau, faces multiple human-induced pressures, including construction activities, mining operations, and the development of unauthorized road networks. These activities have led to a significant loss of plant diversity in the region. Additionally, the area is prone to frequent fires during the summer months, posing a substantial threat to the overall biodiversity of the region.

The soil analysis highlights specific challenges in Nediyenga lateritic soil affecting plant diversity, addressing acidity and nutrient imbalances is crucial. On the other hand, the water quality assessment suggests generally favorable conditions, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring to maintain suitability for diverse purposes. Implementing targeted soil management practices and adhering to local water quality standards will be essential for the overall preservation and enhancement of the region's environmental health.

These factors collectively pose a severe threat to the diverse flora and fauna of Nediyenga habitats, necessitating urgent attention from policymakers and decision-makers. Artificially replicating the complex microclimatic requirements of this habitat through ex situ conservation measures proves impractical. Therefore, concerted efforts are imperative to address these threats and ensure the preservation of the unique and invaluable biodiversity of Nediyenga

Ethics declarations

The plant materials used in the present study were identified by taxonomist Dr. Pramod C. Assistant Professor, University of Calicut, Department of Botany. The collected specimens have been deposited in the college herbarium at Sree Narayana College, affiliated under Kannur University for proper documentation and reference. All collection activities were conducted in accordance with institutional and ethical guidelines for plant collection, characterization, and documentation.

Declaration of Competing Interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

Data availability

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

Author Contribution

Sarga: Conceptualization, Writing, Data analysis., Jeeshna MV, Sreelakshmi T, Proofreading, review & editing. All authors read and approved the manuscript.

Acknowledgement

We express our gratitude to Sree Narayana College Kannur, Kerala for their generous support in facilitating our research activities. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge the support provided by Dr. K. P. Prashanth, Head of the Department of Botany, for his invaluable guidance and assistance. We would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Vineeth Kumar C M for his valuable assistance during the revision of the manuscript.

Vijayakumar, S., Morvin Yabesh, J. E., Prabhu, S., Manikandan, R., & Muralidharan, B. (2015). Quantitative ethnomedicinal study of plants used in the Nelliyampathy hills of Kerala, India. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 161, 238–254. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.12.005
Kolka, R.K., Palik, B.J., Tersteeg, D.P., & Bell, J.C. (2011). Effects of riparian buffers on hydrology of northern seasonal ponds. Transactions of the ASABE, 54, 2111–2116. https://doi.org/10.13031/2013.40663
Mitsch, M.J., & Gosselink, J.G. (1993). Wetlands (2nd ed.). John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cowardin, L.M., Carter, V., Golet, F.C., & Laroe, E.T. (1979). Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. In U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. https://doi.org/10.3133/1919
Brooks, R.T. (2004). Weather-related effects on woodland vernal pool hydrology and hydroperiod. Wetlands, 24, 104–114. https://doi.org/10.1672/0277-5212(2004)024[0104:WEOWVP]2.0.CO;2
Boone, R.B., Johnson, C.M., & Johnson, L.B. (2006). Simulating vernal pool hydrology in central Minnesota, USA. Wetlands, 26, 581–592. https://doi.org/10.1672/0277-5212(2006)26[581:SVPHIC]2.0.CO;2
Calhoun, A.J.K., & Demaynadier, P.G. (2004). Forestry habitat management guidelines for vernal pool wildlife. MCA Technical Paper No 6, Metropolitan Conservation Alliance, Wildlife Conservation Society.
Catanzaro, P., Fish, J., & Kittredge, D. (2013). Massachusetts Forestry Best Management Practices Manual. Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Bureau of Forestry.
Jackson, M.L. (1958). Soil chemical analysis. Prentice Hall, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, NJ.
Walkley, A., & Black, I. A. (1934). An examination of the Degtjareff method for determining soil organic matter, and a proposed modification of the chromic acid titration method. Soil Science, 37(1), 29–38. https://doi.org/10.1097/00010694-193401000-00003
Pratt, P.F., & Norman, A. G. (1965). Potassium. In A.G. Norman (Ed.), Agronomy Monograph (Vol. 9, pp. 101–127). American Society of Agronomy. https://doi.org/10.2134/agronmonogr9.2.c20
Massoumi, A., & Cornfield, A.H. (1962). A rapid method for determining sulphate in water extracts of soils. Analyst, 88, 321–322. https://doi.org/10.1039/AN9628800321
Sims, J. T., & Johnson, G. V. (1991). Micronutrient soil tests. In Methods of Soil Analysis (pp. 427–476). American Society of Agronomy.
Bingham, F.T. (1982). Boron. In A.L. Page (Ed.), Methods of Soil Analysis Part-2 Chemical and Mineralogical Properties (pp. 431–448). American Society of Agronomy.
Arnold, E., Greenberg, L.S., Clescerl, A.D., & Laton, A.D. (1992). Standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater. American Public Health Association.
“IUCN. (2019) Guidelines for using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Version 14. Prepared by the Standards and Petitions Subcommittee, 87 pp. Available from: http://www.iucnredlist.org/documents/RedListGuidelines/ (accessed:27 August 2021).”
Porembski, S., & Barthlott, W. (2000). Inselbergs: Biotic diversity of isolated rock outcrops in tropical and temperate regions (Vol. 146). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-59773-2
Müller, J. V. (2007). Rock outcrop habitats: Ecological processes and plant adaptations. In S. Porembski & W. Barthlott (Eds.), Inselbergs: Biotic diversity of isolated rock outcrops in tropical and temperate regions (pp. 1–23). Springer.
Watve, A., & Thakur, G. (2006). Ecological studies on the rocky plateau vegetation of western Maharashtra with reference to their species diversity. In Proceedings of the National Seminar on Conservation of Eastern Ghats (pp. 173–182). EPTRI.
Lekhak, M. M., & Yadav, S. R. (2012). Diversity and status of vascular plants in lateritic plateaus of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. Phytotaxonomy, 12, 129–140.
Bhattarai, S., Chaudhary, R. P., Taylor, R. S., & Vetaas, O. R. (2012). Poor plant knowledge among women in a remote Himalayan village. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 10, 25–34.
Pramod, C., & Pradeep, A. K. (2020). A Hillock of Biodiversity – Ecology and Flora of Madayippara A South Indian Laterite Plateau. Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy.
Acharya, G.D., Hathi, M.V., Patel, A.D., & Parmar, K.C. (2008). Studies on Chemical properties of ground water in Bhiloda Taluka Region, North Gujarat, India. E-journal of Chemistry, 5(4), 792–796. https://doi.org/10.1155/2008/567086

Table 1 List of plants at Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram

SlNo	Species Name	Family	Habitat	Distribution	IUCN status
1.	Blyxa octandra (Roxb.) Planch.	Hydrocharitaceae	Stagnant pool , pond flooded paddy field	Andhra Pradesh , Maharashtra , Kerala	Threatened species
2.	Curculigo orchioides Gaertn.	Hypoxidaceae	Forest open grassy slopes	Kerala	Threatened species
3.	Asparagus racemosus Willd.	Asparagaceae	Low altitude in shade and tropical climate	Asia, Australia, Africa	Status not confirmed
4	Cyanotis axillaris (L.) D.Don ex Sweet.	Commeliaceae	Forest, grassland, Marshy land	Delhi, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarpradesh	Least concern
5	Cyanotis burmanniana Wight.	Commelinaceae	Seasonally dry tropical biome	Kerala	Status not confirmed
6	Murdannia semiteres (Dalzell) Sant.	Commelinaceae	Terrestrial , Freshwater , Wet rocks , Stream edges	Kerala	Least concern
7	Monochoria vaginalis (Burm.f.) CPresl.	Pontederiaceae	Wetlands, Artificial/Aquatic and marine	Kerala	Least concern
8	Eriocaulon cuspidatum Dalzell.	Eriocaulaceae	Puddles , surrounded by forest , around rice field , roadsides and plateau	Karnataka , Kerala , Maharashtra	Status not confirmed
9	Eriocaulon europeplon Korn.	Eriocaulaceae	Terrestrial fresh water , Rocky areas	Kerala	Status not confirmed
10	Eriocaulon reductum Ruhland.	Eriocaulaceae	Marshy areas, Paddy fields and wetlands	Kerala	Status not confirmed
11	Fimbristylis quinquangularis (Vahl) Kunth.	Cyperaceae	Terrestrial , Freshwater ,Wetlands artificial /aquatic and marine	Karnataka , Kerala ,Maharashtra , Tamilnadu , Odisha	Least concern
12	Pycreus pumilus (L.) Nees.	Cyperaceae	Marshy areas, Paddy fields and wetlands	Andra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamilnadu	Least concern
13	Eragrostis unioloides (Retz.) Nees ex Steud.	Poaceae	Forest, Savanna, Shrub land, Grassland(inland),Rocky areas, Desert, marine aquatic/terrestrial	All over in India	Least concern
14	Desmodium adscendens (DA) (Sw.) DC.	Fabaceae	Terrestrial, forest, grassland	All over in India	Least concern
15	Geissaspis cristata Wight &Arn.	Fabaceae	Grassland , Rocky areas	Kerala, India	Least concern
16	Polygala elongata Klein ex Willd.	Polygalaceae	Exposed slops and crevices of rocks from foothills	Kerala	Status not confirmed
17	Micrococca mercurialis (L.) Benth.	Euphorbiaceae	Forest plantation also in the plains	Maharashtra , Karnataka , Tamilnadu , Kerala	Status not confirmed
18	Croton bonplandianus Baill.	Euphorbiaceae	Terrestrial	Kerala	Status not confirmed
19	Passiflora foetida L.	Passifloraceae	Roadside , waste areas , closed forest , open woodland	All over the India	Least concern
20	Rotala malabarica Pradeep, Joseph &Sivar.	Lythraceae	Temporary pools in depressions on lateritic rocks	Kerala	Critically endangered
21	Rotala malampuzhensis R.V. Nair ex C.D.K. Cook.	Lythraceae	Grassland, wetland, Rocky area, Aquatic and marine, Mountain peaks	Kerala	Least concern
22	Osbeckia muralis Naudin.	Melastomataceae	Rocky areas in moist deciduous forest also in plains	Maharashtra , Tamilnadu , Kerala	Status not confirmed
23	Melochia corchorifolia L.	Malvaceae	Forest, wetlands(Inland), Artificial/Terrestrial and marine	Assam,Odisha,Gujarat,Karnataka,Maharashtra,Rajastan,Uttarpradesh,Sikkim,Punjab,Kerala	Least concern
24	Polycarpaea corymbosa L.	Caryophyllaceae	Tropics and subtropic regions , sandy soils , grasslands	Andhra Pradesh , Assam , Kerala	Status not confirmed
25	Impatiens minor (DC) Bennet.	Balsaminaceae	Moist , shaddy places	Kerala	Status not confirmed
26	Neanotis subtilis (Miq.) Govaerts ex Punekar $ Lakshmin.	Rubiaceae	Garden, urban ,wet, tropical biome	Kerala	Status not confirmed
27	Oldenlandia corymbosa L., varcorymbosa.	Rubiaceae	Grassland , Shallow soil on rocks , sandy river ridges	Assam , Bihar , Maharashtra , Odisha , Rajastan , Kerala	Least concern
28	Oldenlantia herbacea (L) Roxb.	Rubiaceae	Grassland ,Roadside , often on sandy soils	Assam , Kerala, Maharashtra	Status not confirmed
29	Spermacoce alata Aubl.	Rubiaceae	Humid tropical climate with sandy soil , Steep river bank , field , road sides and other distributed areas	Assam , Meghalaya , Kerala	Status not confirmed
30	Canscorinella stricta Shahina $ Nampy.	Gentianaceae	Seasonally dry tropical biome	Kerala	Status not confirmed
31	Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R.Br.	Apocynaceae	Terrestrial	Kerala	Least concern
32	Heliotropium marifolium Retz.	Boraginaceae	Rocky plateaus and hillocks , Moist places	Kerala	Least concern
33	Limnophila repens (Benth.) Benth.	Plantaginaceae	Wetland (inland, artificial/aquatic and marine)	Tamilnadu,Assam,Odisha,Andrapradesh,Madhyapradesh,Kerala,Karnataka,Sikkim	Least concern
34	Scoparia dulcis L.	Plantaginaceae	Grazed grasslands , Wet waste lands and cultivated lands	Maharashtra , Kerala , Tamilnadu	Status not confirmed
35	Bonnaya ciliata (Colsm.) Spreng.	Linderniaceae	Forest, Grassland, wetland, Terrestrial, fresh water	Kerala	Least concern
36	Lindernia hyssopioides (L.) Haines.	Linderniaceae	Terrestrial, freshwater, wetlands, artificial/aquatic and marine	Tamilnadu,Odisha,Assam,Bihar,Kerala,Karnataka,Rajastan,Kerala	Least concern
37	Torenia crustacea (L.) Cham.	Linderniaceae	Wetland(Inland), Artificial/aquatic and marine	West Bengal, Kerala,Rajastan,Tamilnadu,Odisha,Karnataka,Assam,Island,Uttarpradesh	Least concern
38	Sesamum indicum L.	Pedaliaceae	Tropical regions , cosmopolitan distribution	Kerala	Status not confirmed
39	Rotheca serrata *(L.) Steane &Mabb.*	Lamiaceae	Forest , mountain slops , valleys	Kerala , India	Status not confirmed
40	Leucas aspera (Willd.) Spreng.	Lamiaceae	Dry open sandy soil	Throughout India from Himalaya down to Ceylon	Status not confirmed
41	Parasopubia hofmannii Pradeep&Pramod var. hofmannii.	Orobanchaceae	Shallow soiled area	Kerala	Status not confirmed
42	Ramphicarpa fistulosa Benth.	Orobanchaceae	Marshy land	Andhra Pradesh , Kerala	Status not confirmed
43	Utricularia cecilii P. Taylor.	Lentibulariaceae	Wetland, Rocky areas(Inland cliffs, Mountain peaks)	Kerala	Endangered
44	Utricularia graminifolia Vahl.	Lentibulariaceae	Grassland, Rocky areas(inland cliffs ,mountain peaks)	Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala	Least concern
45	Justicia nagpurensis V.A.W.Graham.	Acanthaceae	Damp places in plains	Kerala	Status not confirmed
46	Lepidagathis keralensis Madhus. &N.PSingh.	Acanthaceae	Laterite hills , sea coast woody rock stock	Kerala	Status not confirmed
47	Lantana camara L.	Verbenaceae	Grassland ,Wood land ,and riparian and bottom land habit	Andaman &Nicobar , Andhra pradesh ,Delhi ,Kerala ,Jammu Kashmir , Hariyana ,Jharkhand	Status not confirmed
48	Nymphoides indica (L.)Kuntze .	Menyanthaceae	Wild aquatic	Kerala , Andhra pradesh	Least concern
49	Ageratum conyzoides L.	Asteraceae	Terrestrial	Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland	Status not confirmed
50	Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC.	Asteraceae	Grassland , waste area road sides partially shaded area	Assam , Bihar , Kerala , Gujarat , Madhya Pradesh , Maharashtra , Tamilnadu , Manipur , Meghalaya , Odisha , Uttar pradesh	Status not confirmed
51	Chlorophytum laxum Ker-Gawl.	Liliaceae	Grassland	Kerala , Andhra pradesh , Telangana , Karnataka , Maharashtra	Status not confirmed
52	Marsilea quadrifolia L.	Marsiliaceae	River , stream , ponds , shore lines , ditches	Kerala , India	Least concern
53	Chelianthus tenuifolia (Burm.f.) Sw.	Pteridaceae	Terrestrial in the ground layer of coastal open woodland, usually in rocky areas	India	Status not confirmed

Table 2 Plants found in seasonal pond

SI NO:	Species Name	Family
1	Blyxa octandra (Roxb.) Planch.	Hydrocharitaceae
2	Cyanotis axillaris (L.) D.Don ex Sweet.	Commeliaceae
3	Murdannia semiteres (Dalzell) Sant.	Commelinaceae
4	Monochoria vaginalis (Burm.f.) CPresl.	Pontederiaceae
5	Eriocaulon cuspidatum Dalzell.	Eriocaulaceae
6	Eriocaulon europeplon Korn.	Eriocaulaceae
7	Eriocaulon reductum Ruhland.	Eriocaulaceae
8	Rotala malabarica Pradeep, Joseph &Sivar.	Lythraceae
9	Rotala malampuzhensis R.V. Nair ex C.D.K. Cook.	Lythraceae
0	Neanotis subtilis (Miq.) Govaerts ex Punekar & Lakshmin.	Rubiaceae
11	Heliotropium marifolium Retz.	Boraginaceae
12	Limnophila repens (Benth.) Benth.	Plantaginaceae
13	Bonnaya ciliate (Colsm.) Spreng.	Linderniaceae
14	Lindernia hyssopioides (L.) Haines.	Linderniaceae
16	Torenia crustacea (L.) Cham.	Linderniaceae
17	Utricularia cecilii P. Taylor.	Lentibulariaceae
18	Justicia nagpurensis V.A.W.Graham.	Acanthaceae
19	Nymphoides indica(L.)Kuntze .	Menyanthaceae
20	Marsilea quadrifolia L.	Marsiliaceae

Table 3 ANALYTICAL REPORT OF SOIL SAMPLE

SI.NO	PARAMETER	VALUE	INTERPRETATION
1	pH	4.02	Acidic
2	Electrical Conductivity (ds/m)	0.27	Normal
3	Organic carbon (%)	3.3	High
4	Phosphorous (kg/ha)	12.57	Medium
5	Potassium (kg/ha)	112	Low
6	Sulphur (ppm)	3.0	Low
7	Calcium (ppm)	640	Adequate
8	Magnesium (ppm)	124	Adequate
9	Boron (ppm)	0.112	Low
10	Zinc (ppm)	8.8	Adequate
11	Iron (ppm)	37.9	High
12	Copper (ppm)	1.38	Adequate
13	Manganese (ppm)	15.6	High

Table 4 ANALYTICAL REPORT OF WATER SAMPLE

SI.NO:	PARAMETER	VALUE
1	pH	5.6
2	EC (dS/m)	0.12
3	K (ppm)	3.9
4	Carbonate (meq / L )	Nil
5	Bicarbonate ( meq /L)	0.4
6	Chloride (meq/L)	1.0
7	Total Dissolved solids (ppm)	76.8
8	Copper (ppm)	0.0272
9	Iron (ppm)	0.149
10	Zinc (ppm)	Nil

No competing interests reported.

Diversity and Dynamics of Seasonal Pool Vegetation in Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram, Kannur District, Kerala, India.

Status:

Version 1

Abstract

Figures

1 INTRODUCTION

2 STUDY AREA

3 MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Selection of study area

3.2 Field survey

3.4 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of soil

3.5 Determination of soil P^H [9]

3.6 Determination of organic carbon in soil [10]

3.7Determination of available phosphorous in soil [9]

3.8Determination of electrical conductivity of soil [9]

3.9Determination of available potassium in soil [11]

3.10Determination of exchangeable calcium and magnesium in soil [9]

3.11 Determination of available sulphur in soil [12]

3.12 Determination of available micronutrients (iron, manganese, zinc and copper) in soil [13]

3.13 Determination of available boron in soil [14]

3.14 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of water [15]

3.15Determination of carbonate and bicarbonate in water sample

3.16 Estimation of P^H and EC of effluent/ water samples

3.17 EC

3.18 Total dissolved salts (TDS)

3.19 Estimation of chloride content in water

4 RESULTS

5 DISCUSSION

6 CONCLUSION

Declarations

Author Contribution

Acknowledgement

References

Tables

Additional Declarations

Status:

Version 1

Diversity and Dynamics of Seasonal Pool Vegetation in Nediyenga, Sreekandapuram, Kannur District, Kerala, India.

Status:

Version 1

Abstract

Figures

1 INTRODUCTION

2 STUDY AREA

3 MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Selection of study area

3.2 Field survey

3.4 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of soil

3.5 Determination of soil PH [9]

3.6 Determination of organic carbon in soil [10]

3.7Determination of available phosphorous in soil [9]

3.8Determination of electrical conductivity of soil [9]

3.9Determination of available potassium in soil [11]

3.10Determination of exchangeable calcium and magnesium in soil [9]

3.11 Determination of available sulphur in soil [12]

3.12 Determination of available micronutrients (iron, manganese, zinc and copper) in soil [13]

3.13 Determination of available boron in soil [14]

3.14 Analysis of physico- chemical properties of water [15]

3.15Determination of carbonate and bicarbonate in water sample

3.16 Estimation of PH and EC of effluent/ water samples

3.17 EC

3.18 Total dissolved salts (TDS)

3.19 Estimation of chloride content in water

4 RESULTS

5 DISCUSSION

6 CONCLUSION

Declarations

Author Contribution

Acknowledgement

References

Tables

Additional Declarations

Status:

Version 1

3.5 Determination of soil P^H [9]

3.16 Estimation of P^H and EC of effluent/ water samples