Effect of different Altitudes on Leaf Parameters of Garcinia indica (Choisy) in Uttara Kannada, India

Garcinia indica is a native tree species found in the Western Ghats of India and is important for commerce, ecology and medicine. This study looks into the morphometric characteristics of G. indica leaves and how they vary in the Uttara Kannada area of Karnataka, India, across various altitude zones. Eight test locations were chosen and divided into four altitude zones (Zones A (plains), Zone B (up-ghat), Zone C (mid-ghat) and Zone D (Coastal)) each of which corresponded to a distinct elevation and rainfall level. Forty trees were used to gather leaf samples and measurements of the leaves' length, breadth, (fresh and dry leaf) weight and moisture content were noted. The findings showed that there was a considerable altitude-dependent variation in leaf characteristics, with Zone-A showing the largest mean leaf length (9.48 cm), breadth (3.68 cm) and Zone-C showing the highest leaf weight (0.85 g). Four leaf types were noted: lanceolate, elliptical, ovate and obovate. The elliptical leaf shape was found to be the most prevalent. The study emphasizes how bioclimatic factors affect the morphology of G. indica leaves and it suggests that altitude is a major factor in determining the size and weight of leaves. This study supports the conservation and widespread use of G. indica by shedding light on its variety and ability to adapt to different environments.