Biodiversity – Andhra Pradesh Sacred Groves Highlight Vital Role in Protecting Native Plant Diversity
Biodiversity – Andhra Pradesh’s sacred groves are drawing renewed attention after a scientific study revealed the remarkable diversity of plant life preserved within one of these long-protected forest patches. The findings reinforce the ecological value of these culturally significant landscapes while also raising concerns about the growing challenges they face from development and changing land-use practices.
Extensive Plant Diversity Recorded in Anantapur Sacred Grove
A detailed botanical survey conducted at the Penna Ahobilam Sacred Grove in Andhra Pradesh’s Anantapur district identified 378 wild and naturalised plant species. According to the research, these species belong to 220 genera and 54 plant families, reflecting the grove’s exceptional biological richness. The recorded vegetation includes 49 species of trees, 56 shrubs, 235 herbs and 38 climbers, making the site one of the notable reservoirs of native plant diversity in the region.
The research, titled “A Preliminary Floristic Exploration in Penna Ahobilam Sacred Grove,” was published in the European Journal of Ecology, Biology and Agriculture. The study is based on extensive field observations carried out between 2018 and 2026.
Sacred Groves Continue to Preserve Traditional Ecosystems
Researchers noted that Andhra Pradesh is home to around 730 documented sacred groves, locally known as Pavithravanas. These forest patches have traditionally been protected by local communities because of their religious and cultural importance. Many are dedicated to village deities as well as Hindu gods and goddesses, including Shiva, Hanuman, Saraswathi, Gangamma and Narasimha.
For generations, community traditions and customary beliefs have helped safeguard these areas from large-scale disturbance. As a result, many sacred groves have remained important habitats for native plants, wildlife and several medicinal species that have disappeared from surrounding landscapes.
Penna Ahobilam Supports Diverse Natural Habitats
Located nearly 36 kilometres from Anantapur, the Penna Ahobilam Sacred Grove represents a surviving patch of tropical dry deciduous forest. The landscape includes rocky terrain, seasonal water channels and varied natural habitats that support a broad range of vegetation.
Among the tree species documented during the survey were neem, banyan, peepal, tamarind, black plum and Indian beech. Researchers believe that the combination of different microhabitats within the grove plays a significant role in sustaining such a diverse collection of plant species.
Development Pressures Threaten Long-Term Conservation
Despite their ecological importance, researchers warned that many sacred groves across the state are facing increasing pressure. Expansion and renovation of temples, removal of native vegetation and other development-related activities are gradually affecting the natural character of these forests.
The study suggests that if such changes continue without proper ecological planning, the long-term survival of several sacred groves could become uncertain. Protecting both their cultural identity and environmental value is considered essential for ensuring their future.
Researchers Recommend Community and Scientific Conservation
Beyond preserving plant diversity, the study highlights the wider environmental benefits provided by sacred groves. These forests function as biodiversity hotspots, help regulate local climatic conditions, contribute to carbon storage and preserve traditional ecological knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
To strengthen conservation efforts, the researchers recommend combining community participation with scientific management practices. They believe such an approach would help safeguard these historically significant ecosystems while ensuring that their ecological and cultural benefits continue for future generations.