Rapid Assessment of Floral Diversity in Green Spaces within Mumbai City, MS, India

Abstract

Forests are one of the most biologically active terrestrial ecosystems. They are known to provide varied ecological services and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Especially in a metropolitan city like Mumbai, the last remaining tracts of green help in maintaining the microclimate, enriching the groundwater table, and curbing pollution levels. Despite these valuable services provided by forests, deforestation has become rampant in the present era, causing several environmental problems. Urgent steps are required to identify and protect the remaining green areas to maintain ecological balance and slow the pace of climate change. The present study deals with the identification and assessment of the floral diversity of green spaces within Mumbai city and suburban areas. The floristic survey was carried out from June 2021 to October 2022. A total of 111 plant species from 43 families, encompassing 5 herbs, 14 shrubs, 3 climbers, 1 grass, 1 fern, and 87 angiospermic trees, were identified. Through our report, we attempt to shed light on these important green spaces to ensure that they are not treated as isolated spaces but as spaces that complement our daily lives and well-being.