Population structure, floral diversity, habitat geography, and conservation status of Himalayan horse chestnut (Aesculus indica) in western Himalayan moist temperate forest ecosystems of Kashmir region

Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 7

Published: Jan. 23, 2025

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the population structure, floral diversity, habitat geography, phytosociology, threats, and conservation status Aesculus indica in western Himalayan region Kashmir. was designed to investigate distribution patterns, community floristic phytosociological attributes A. forests, as well evaluate geography species by using GIS analysis. Primary vegetation data geographic features were collected via systematic quadrat-based sampling from 14 sites moist temperate ecosystem Kashmir, ranging elevation 1,400 2,800 m. Population structure analysis revealed an average density 435.85 stems/ha for , with significant variation 220 1,100 stems/ha. The exhibited high basal cover 356.33 cm, emphasizing its role canopy forests. identified keystone supporting diverse comprised 168 plant 51 families. Dominant families, including Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Rosaceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, contributed more than 50% total recorded species. Phytosociological investigations be dominant highest importance value index (IVI) 48.81, indicating ecological significance forest ecosystems. preference north-facing aspects altitudinal range 1,400–2,800 m, which constitute most suitable habitats . However, anthropogenic disturbances, deforestation, overgrazing, land encroachment, major threats populations area. deforestation intensity averaged 135 stumps/ha, some exceeding 300 unsustainable fuelwood consumption patterns degradation. Overgrazing trampling also found seedlings, affecting species’ regeneration potential. Conservation strategies should prioritize protection restoration habitats, especially upper zones slopes, ensure long-term sustainability It is recommended formulate effective measures such promoting sustainable practices, controlling invasive species, restoring degraded controlled grazing community-based initiatives, harvesting policies, educating local communities, alternative livelihoods that support communities preservation health. emphasizes urgent need safeguard associated diversity region.

Language: Английский

Contrasting population declines and drivers of ecological refuge for two range-restricted amphibians

Biodiversity and Conservation, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: Dec. 4, 2024

Language: Английский