Ethnobotanical studies of important tree species used by Sherdukpen tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, India

The Sherdukpen tribe, a major ethnic group of West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh, possesses rich ethnobotanical knowledge and relies extensively on plant resources. This study aimed to document and evaluate culturally important tree species used by the community. Data were collected from 105 informants across seven villages through questionnaires and personal interviews. A total of 30 tree species, representing 23 genera and 18 families, were recorded and classified into eleven use categories, with Rosaceae as the dominant family. Food category accounted for the highest proportion (25%), while manure category was minimal (2.9%). Gender-based knowledge variation was observed, with women more familiar with food-related species and men with species used for construction, tools, and poison. Pinus wallichiana, Quercus griffithii, and Rhododendron arboreum showed the highest cultural importance. The study highlights diverse utilization patterns and cultural significance of tree resources.