Tree Architecture and Structural Complexity in Mountain Forests of the Annapurna Region, Himalaya

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 15(4)

Published: April 1, 2025

ABSTRACT Mountain ranges comprise heterogeneous environments and high plant diversity, but little is known about the architecture structural complexity of trees in mountain forests. We studied relationship between tree architecture, environmental conditions, forests Annapurna region Himalaya. further asked whether how translates into forest stand complexity. The study covers 546 on 14 undisturbed plots across wide elevation (1300 to 3400 m asl.) annual precipitation (1180 3600 mm yr. −1 ). They were assessed by ground‐based mobile laser scanning. found that complexity, expressed as box‐dimension ( D b ), was lowest for needle‐leaved Pinus wallichiana highest broad‐leaved Daphniphyllum himalense . A share variation explained architecture. In multivariate models, height, crown radius, length more than 60% observed Stem density plot accounted 19% , there no influence diversity. Precipitation l3% slope did not have significant influences. As expected, height decreased with increasing elevation, small often had relatively values. standard deviation tree‐level within a 47% stand‐level among plots, surpassing maximum This suggests both sole removal or large would reduce 36%. conclude Himalayan forests, species identity play role determining while factors smaller role. Furthermore, plays crucial at level.

Language: Английский

Rewilding in the developing world as an alternative development pathway: the example of forest regeneration in the middle hills of Nepal

Environmental Development, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 101225 - 101225

Published: April 1, 2025

Language: Английский