Diversity, utilization pattern and prioritization of fodder species for conservation in Nalagarh Forest Division, Himachal Pradesh, NW India

The current study aims to document the diversity of fodder species, their availability and role in livestock sustenance in the Nalagarh Forest Division of Himachal Pradesh. 117 fodder-providing species belonging to 41 families were documented, out of which 40% were trees, 15% shrubs, 40% herbs, and 4% climbers. Poaceae, Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Malvaceae and Moraceae were dominant families of fodder species in the area. The recorded species were analysed for pressure use index (PUI) value. Species like Moringa oleifera, Ougeinia oojeinensis, Bridelia retusa, Albizia chinensis, Diospyros montana, Ficus auriculata, F. palmata, F. racemosa, F. semicordata, Grewia asiatica, G. optiva and Vachellia leucophloea recorded the highest PUI value, indicating a higher preference for fodder, and are thus found to be crucial from the conservation point of view.