Rescuing Madhuca insignis (Sapotaceae), an extremely narrow endemic species to South Western Ghats, India

Abstract

Madhuca insignis (Sapotaceae) is a tree endemic to the South Western Ghats of India. The species was first reported from one locality in 1858 and since then for a period of 120 years has been believed to be extinct until it was rediscovered in type locality. It is one of the 27 tree species identified for a recovery programme in the national priority list of endangered plants in India. Literature and herbarium specimen surveys have been carried out followed by field visits. 27 individuals and three populations in the wild were located. The survival rate of individuals propagated from seed after five years was 60% in ex situ conservation. We therefore propose that M. insignis be categorized as Critically Endangered (<50 mature individuals) on the IUCN Red List, based on criterion D. We recommend urgent protection, population monitoring and in situ conservation and reintroduction using ex situ material.