Pre-sowing treatment strategies for improving seed germination rates in Hopea erosa (Dipterocarpaceae), a critically endangered tree of the Southern Western Ghats

Restoring of endangered plant species is essential for conservation efforts, aiming to increase population numbers and rejuvenate declining habitats. This study focuses on the restoration of Hopea erosa, a Critically Endangered tree species indigenous to the Southern Western Ghats of India. Challenges such as irregular flowering and limited natural regeneration prompted the development of seed propagation protocols. Seed germination and seedling growth are critical steps in for the abiding conservation of plant germplasm. Ten different treatments were tested to identify the most effective pre-sowing treatment for maximizing germination. Measurements were taken for stem length, stem girth, root length, and leaf number of the germinated seedlings. Seed propagation experiments revealed that soaking scarified seeds in a 1% KNO₃ solution for 24 h resulted in 100% germination within 15 days. In contrast, the control group showed the slowest germination, taking 24 days. The Critical Moisture Content (CMC) of the seeds at 45% showed 20% germination. Over 1000 seedlings were transplanted across multiple forest ranges within the Western Ghats region, with ongoing assessments of post-restoration survival. Despite obstacles, these initiatives underscore the importance of proactive conservation measures in protecting endemic and endangered species in the area.