Prediction of Crop Suitability of Certain Indian Spices – A GIS Approach

Abstract

GIS technology is a computer-based data collection, storage, and analysis tool that combines previously unrelated information into easily understood maps. GIS can perform complicated analytical functions and then present the results visually as maps, tables or graphs. This allows decision-makers to virtually see the issues before them and then select the best course of action. The database prepared from existing field survey can be compiled using digital map for monitoring the availability of the species in the unknown locations through Ecocrop model of DIVA GIS. The spatial analysis thus helps in choosing the best location for the crop depending on the environmental parameters. The plotting of Piper species and Garcinia species collected from Western Ghats gave information of the species richness sites as well as the diversity of the species. Based on these results the prediction of the distribution of piper species and Garcinia species in North Eastern India was done and confirmed the availability with survey. The climatic parameters, important for crop suitability, The studies indicated that area under the natural habitat or the cultivation of the crop has a positive relation with the environmental suitability.