Forest Structure, Diversity and Regeneration Pattern Along Altitudinal Gradient in Temperate Zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (a World Heritage Site), Western Himalaya, India

Abstract

\n BackgroundThe present study exhibited forest structure, plant species composition and regeneration pattern in temperate zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR), western Himalaya along the different altitudinal gradient (2600 to 3600 m asl). The diverse ecosystems of the NDBR contain a tremendous array of floral and faunal diversity, many of which are rare and endangered species. ResultsA total of 223 species of vascular plants (Angiosperm, Gymnosperm and Pteridophytes) were identified within the study area. Rosacaeae (17.69 %) family was exhibited dominant followed by Asteraceae (14.97 %) and Ranunculaceae (12.93 %). Among all the plant species, Betula utilis had highest tree density (724 & 324 individuals ha-1 in each site) and contributed maximum dominance of species cover (44 % and 36 % ) at Tolma and Ghangaria sites followed by Pinus wallichiana (24 %) and Cedrus deodara (15 %), respectively. In Ghangaria site, 56 % tree species showed fair regeneration, 22 % good, 11% exhibited poor and remaining (11 %) indicated no regeneration while at Tolma site, 40 % species showed fair regeneration, 40 % good and remaining 20 % no regeneration. ConclusionOur results suggest to monitor the change in vegetation structure, species composition and regeneration pattern, we should establish permanent study plots in different forest types located along the elevational gradients for an effective and comprehensive monitoring programme to tracks the response of changing climate at both community and species level. Therefore, it is necessary to development of appropriate weather and meteorological station in this sensitive and ecologically important area for regional projection of micro climatic condition and generation of scientific data on changing vegetation composition and advancement of the native species.