Abstract
Arenaria serpyllifolia and A. neelgherrensis are closely allied, very similar and confused species, likely A. melandryoides and A. melandryiformis, A. polytrichoides and A. densissima are also very similar and posing problem in identification. After a critical study of herbarium specimens at CAL & BSI, A. neelgherrensis has been reduced as a variety under A. serpyllifolia, A. melandryiformis as a variety under A. melandryoides and A. densissima as a variety under A. polytrichoides. A key to the varieties involved, short descriptions, distribution and notes are provided. In addition to this, three endemic and endangered species are also discussed.
Keywords
Endemic, Temperate Himalayas, Stoney grasslands, Varieties, Ecological suitable areas propagation