National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS)
HALF YEARLY PROGRESS REPORT (Reporting Period from April 2018 to September 2018 )
1. Project Information
Project ID NMHS/2015-16/LG03/03 Project Title Timberline and Altitudinal Gradient Ecology of Himalayas, and Human Use Sustenance in a Warming Climate Project Proponent Prof. S.P. Singh Central Himalayan Environment Association, Nainital
2. Objectives 1. To characterize and map timberline zone in the IHR using satellite and ground based observations including smart phone applications 2. To determine the temperature lapse rate (TLR) and pattern of precipitation along altitudinal gradients in different precipitation regimes across the IHR; 3. To study plant diversity, community structure, tree diameter changes and natural recruitment pattern along the three principal sites in the IHR; 4. To understand tree phenological responses, nutrient conservation strategies and tree-water relations in response to warming climate 5. To study relationship between tree ring growth and past climatic changes in different climate regime across IHR; 6. To understand the impact of depletion of snow-melt water on growth of tree seedlings, grasslands species composition and selected functional processes; 7. To promote participatory action research (Citizen Science) on innovative interventions to improve livelihoods, women participation in conservation and management of timberline resources.
3. Progress
Quantifiable Deliverables Monitoring Progress made against indicators deliverables in terms of monitoring indicators
1 2 3
Creation of database and • No of long • Three long term monitoring knowledge products on term (LTM) sites/ plots established vegetation science and tree- monitoring in 3 states (Uttarakhand, sites/ plots soil water relations of Himachal Pradesh and established timberline in 3 principal sites in 3 states Sikkim) (J&K, Sikkim and (Nos.) • Spatial data on timberline of Uttarakhand). entire Indian Central Himalaya was • generated from maps developed using satellite images, and was subject to various statistical treatments. • Database and knowledge products on vegetation science and treesoil water relations of timberline in 3 principal sites (J&K, Sikkim and Uttarakhand) has been developed (Annexure A &B enclosed
Improved understanding • Publication • Total 16 research papers from depicted from thematic maps s of every sub-component under and database of timberline knowledge the project were developed and products ecosystem as a special communicated successfully to (No.) conservation entity and Tropical Ecology. implication to sustainable • 01 high-resolution digital map management and livelihood depicting changes in timberline enhancement. for Tungnath has been developed .
Improved understanding of • Communit • Total 34 community groups future changes in timberline y groups formed and trained in various vis-a-vis climate change and trained sectors, benefiting (Nos) human uses representatives from 170 • Publication families. s of knowledge products (No.)
Awareness and Training • Awareness • One awareness camp was material/ knowledge products camps/ organized with the active for sustainable use of programs participation of stakeholders organized resources for improved along with shopkeepers and (Nos.) horse union members etc. For livelihood. biodiversity conservation, and waste management.
• Knowledge materials on mushroom cultivation and nursery preparation have been developed for timberline connected communities at Tungnath.
Promotion of Citizen Science • Human • Promotion and demonstration through engagement of use of of Home Stay concept finalized community groups timberline and will be demonstrated ecosystems soon. and its contributio n to livelihoods (Nos./ Area )
Annexure A Progress (April 2018 to June 2018)
Supportive
documents
(Attach files) Quantifiable Monitoring
Progress made against deliverables in terms of monitoring indicators (All files shall be
Deliverables indicators
in Zip format and
to be uploaded in
web portal)
1 2 3 4
Timberline Mapping Creation of No of long term database and monitoring sites/ Two manuscripts were developed and submitted for special issue of
knowledge plots established Tropical ecology.
products on in 3 states(Nos.)
Title of Papers:
vegetation
(i) A cartographic representation of a timberline, reline and woody
science and tree-
vegetation around a central Himalayan summit using remote
sensing method soil water (ii) Topographical characterization of high altitude Timberline in the relations of timberline in 3 Indian Central Himalayan region
principal sites Detailed cartographic remote-sensing-based maps are being developed
(J&K, Sikkim and for the other Indian Himalayan states. Photographs Temperature Lapse Rate (TLR) Uttarakhand). attached Near surface Temperature Lapse Rate for A manuscript entitled “ (Annexure I) Treeline environment in Western Himalaya and possible impacts on ecotone vegetation ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. Total 9 runoff plots are established for estimation of hydrological response of three major vegetation types, namely; Conifers ( Abies spectabilis ), Krummholz ( Rhododendron campanulatum ), and Grassland along tree line ecotone in Tungnath region in Uttarakhand. The rainfall event based data on gross rainfall, through-fall, stem-flow and runoff from these plots is generated for rainfall- runoff analysis. Study on rainfall interception in three forest types ( Abies spectabilis , Quercus semecarpifolia , and Rhododendron campanulatum ) is carried out to strengthen the data generated during last year. The high temporal scale data on temperature and relative humidity is collected along different elevation in two different aspects of Chopta- Tungnath transect in Uttarakhand; for 6 sites at different elevations along Yuksam-Dzongri transect in Sikkim and for 4 sites at different elevations along Daksum-Sinthan transect in Jammu& Kashmir. The collected data is being used to calculate and analyze seasonal variation in temperature lapse rate and relative humidity for the three selected study transects in IHR. The field work for collection of hydro-meteorological data from the
established station/ runoff plots is reinitiated.
Vegetation Sampling Data base and knowledge products have been developed for two principal sites (J&K and Uttarakhand transect); work underway for third site (Sikkim).
Jammu & Kashmir
A manuscript entitled “ Taxonomic and functional plant diversity patterns along an elevational gradient through treeline ecotone in Kashmir ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. The timberline ecotone extending from timberline at 3200 m up to treeless alpine meadow at 3800m was resampled and resurveyed for more detailed study of species composition, structure and changes in species composition over small increments in altitude. Detailed survey in the ecotone after every 50 m elevational band revealed a total of 176 species belonging to 132 genera and 58 families, excluding lichens. Out of these, angiosperms were dominant in comparison to other taxonomic groups represented by 135 species in 104 genera and 38 families. Among angiosperms, dicots were more numerous than monocots and were represented by 124 species in 96 genera and 33 families, and monocots were represented by 11 species in 8 genera and 5 families. Pteridophytes and bryophytes were represented by 22 and 17 species belonging to 12 and 8 genera in 14
and 10 families. Functional Diversity: Functional groups of vascular embryophytes viz. herbs, shrubs, trees and ferns in the timberline ecotone included 125(79%) species of herbs, followed by 22 (14%) species of ferns, 8 (5%) species of shrubs and 4 (3%) species of trees. Among bryophytes, mosses predominated with 14 species (84%) followed by liverworts with 3 species (18%) and no species of hornworts was recorded. Regeneration Status: The recruitment of trees in the timberline ecotone was assessed by counting the numbers of saplings and seedlings per 10 2 m of trees in each elevational band together with number of trees. Data reveal that a good number of tree seedlings was recorded along the entire elevational gradient of the timberline ecotone but saplings were few. Mid Domain Effect Analysis: Mid-Domain effect was observed in total species richness and in functional groups of trees and herbs while shrubs
didn’t show mid domain effect. The reason behind not observing
mid-domain effect in case of shrubs is due to the dominance of one or more species only resulting in decreased species ranges towards mid- elevation peak than at lower and higher elevations.
Uttarakhand A manuscript entitled “ Plant species diversity and rarity patterns along altitude range covering treeline ecotone in Uttarakhand: conservation implications ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. The study documents plant diversity within a forested high altitude zone (2000-3500 m asl) of Uttarakhand wherein 1471 plant species (106 trees, 233 shrubs and 1132 herbs) occur. Of the total, 387 (26.3%) species were recorded from the study transects which included 52.5% (203 spp.) Himalayan natives. Among others, the paper includes analysis on: (i) Floristic diversity and representativeness; (ii) Rarity distribution and conservation priorities;
(iii) Conservation imperatives of species richness and beta diversity; (iv) Altitude relationship of compositional features; and (v) Composition at treeline ecotone. Project team conducted frequent field surveys in Uttarakhand site to complete two more altitude transects for vegetation attributes (i.e., diversity, distribution, regeneration, etc.). With these surveys 3 altitude transects in different situations/aspects of selected site (i.e., Tungnath) has been completed to make the vegetation database more comprehensive. Further analysis of datasets is in progress.
Sikkim A manuscript entitled “ Distribution of Rhododendron falconeri Hook. F. (Ericales: Ericaceae) in Yuksam-Dzongri trekking corridor of Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim, India ” got published in
Journal of Threatened Taxa.
A manuscript entitled “ Changes in vegetation attributes along an elevation gradient towards timberline in Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. Along the vertical transect, elevation gradient between 2000-3000m asl was surveyed during the April to May, 2018. A total of 10 sites, deferring in 100m elevation distance from each other, were surveyed along the gradient consisted of 30 plots of 20×50 m. Vegetation survey data entry and analysis along with the identification of plant specimens was initiated during the above mentioned tenure and is in final stage now. The correlation (r), regression (R2) and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed to relate and mark significance in the studied parameters. Herbarium dataset preparation of sampled plant species is under process and till date 40 samples are housed at the SRC-herbarium, Sikkim.
Phenology Two research papers based on the data collected during 2017-18 was written and communicated to Special Volume of Tropical Ecology Journal on Himalayan Timberline
Title of Papers:
(i) Treeline species phenology: shoot growth, leaf characteristics and nutrient dynamics (ii) Expansion of Rhododendron campanulatum krummholz in the treeline ecotone in Tungnath, Garhwal Himalaya
Measurements on soil moisture, soil temperature, air temperature and air humidity were taken at monthly interval for the marked stands of
all the five tree species.
1 Data on leaf area and leaf mass change were calculated for the above tree species. Data collected for 2017-18 are compared with the present (April-June 2018) in view of the micro-climatic data collected at these sites. 2 Soil samples were collected from two locations (upper and lower altitudinal limit) of all the five species and soil analysis for organic carbon, total Nitrogen is continuing.
Tree Water Relation 3. A manuscript entitled “ Treeline species in western Himalaya are not water stressed: A comparision with low elevation species ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. 4. Research team visited the site two times during the summer season. 5. During the summer season the Pre dawn water potential values ( ΨPD ) were generally high for all species and ranged between -0.67± 0.02 ( R. campanulatum ) and -0.93± 0.04 MPa ( R. arboreum ). The mid day water potential ( ΨMD ) values were lower than ΨPD and ranged between -0.90± 0.02 ( B. utilis ) and -1.40± 0.03MPa ( A. pindrow ). 6. The daily change in water potential between pre-dawn and mid day water potential was less than 0.59MPa for all species. 7. The morning leaf conductance during the summer season ranged 2 -1 2 -1 between 74.6 ± 5.79 m mol m- sec and 142.0±11.8 m mol m- sec . The afternoon leaf conductance for all species was higher than morning conductance and ranged between 91.33 ± 4.55 and 2 -1 380.6±5.52m mol m- sec . 8. In the summer season B. utilis had the highest conductance whereas Q. semecarpifolia had the lowest conductance. 9. During summer the soils were most stressed in top layer (10cm) and values ranged between -2.10 ± 0.07 and -3.05 ± 0.25 MPa. The soil water potential at 60cm depth ranged from -1.28 ± 0.03 to -1.76 ±
0.04 MPa indicating sufficient moisture in the deeper soils.
Tree Ring Width Chronology 1 A manuscript entitled “ Static tree line of Himalayan silver fir since last several decades at Tungnath, western Himalaya ” was developed for special issue of Tropical ecology on the basis of the results obtained out of the analyzed tree ring samples for climate-growth response and tree line dynamics of Abies spectabilis since past 400 years in the Tungnath area. 2. Reported the growth of few fir seedlings near upper ecotone limit of fir during the short field survey in May 2018. (Figure 1). The analysis of this recent regeneration of fir in terms of climate and other factors has also been incorporated in the manuscript mentioned above. 2 Completed the measurement of ~160 tree core samples of Abies spectabilis (fir) of Daksum area and around 50 cores of Pinus wallichiana (pine) collected near Sinthan area (J&K) for climate- growth relationship study. 3 Developed the ~460 years old (1555 to 2016 AD) tree ring chronology from ~160 cores of fir trees for the Daksum area (2400 m asl).
Snow Removal Experiment
4. A manuscript entitled “ Treeline species in western Himalaya are not water stressed: A comparision with low elevation species ” developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. 5. At different altitudinal belt viz. 3200-3300m, 3300-3400m, 3400- 3500m and 3500-3600m) Early and Late snow melt micro-sites identified and marked. 6. Data on abundance is being collected from the monitoring plots on monthly basis 7. Phenological events of each species at different altitudes are recorded at 15 days interval.
Livelihood Interventions A manuscript entitled “ Diversifying livelihood options of timberline
resource dependent communities in Uttarakhand Himalayas ”
developed for special issue of Tropical ecology. Interventions to improve livelihood of people connected with
timberline areas are in place and regular assessment of impact is being
monitored. Community groups (34) are continuing the activities (livelihood
interventions - off -season vegetable cultivation, floriculture, ringal
weaving) and conducting regular meeting for sustaining the
interventions at regular interval. Timberline Mapping : Map attached Improved Publications of understanding knowledge (Annexure II) - 01 high resolution digital map depicting changes in timberline for depicted from products (No.) Tungnath has been developed. Graph attached thematic maps and (Annexure II) Temperature lapse Rate : database of Content list of
- The Pearson correlation coefficients between temperature and timberline elevation of the station were calculated for the observed dataset. the manuscripts as ecosystem a - All temperature data were aggregated to hourly values for various attached (Annexure III) special analyses. conservation - Temperature lapse rates were calculated by developing a regression entity and equation using all point level observations of temperature and
elevation. implication to
- Using the developed regression, which determines nature of linear sustainable
association between the two variables, maiden results of near management and
surface temperature lapse rate (TLR) for treeline environment in livelihood Chopta -Tungnath transect the western Himalaya have been enhancement. obtained.
- TLR is calculated for the entire year as well as separately for each
of four seasons; namely, pre -monsson (MAM)), monsoon (JJAS),
post -monsoon (ON), and winter (DJF) for the two study aspects
seperately.
- Statistical analyses are performed to test the significance of results
obtained. An independent -sample t test was performed to determine
if the estimated TLR of each aspect was different from a general lapse rate value. - Further, one -way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the seasonal TLRs of one aspect to that of the other for the study transect, iteratively. - t-test and ANOVA are evaluated based on the significance alpha level ( α=5% or 95% confidence interval) and p values (p<0.05) using STATISTICA 8.0 statistical package. - The mean annual TLR for CT transect is found to be less steep ( - 0.53ºC/100m) than the commonly used value ( -0.65ºC/100m). - The lapse rates of temperature varied across different seasons and the two study aspects suggesting that TLR is governed by micro - climatic and physiographic features. - The lowest TLR (0.42ºC/100 m on NW aspect and -0.39ºC/100 m on SE aspect) is observed for the winter season (December - February). - The annual cycle of TLR reveals a bi -modal pattern with two maxima in the pre -monsoon and post -monsoon seasons whereas two minima in winter and monsoon, respectively.
16 research papers from every sub-component under the project were developed and communicated successfully to Tropical Ecology. Improved Community Regeneration of tree species in the timberline ecotone in Jammu & understanding of groups trained Kashmir is ‘ Fair’. future changes in (Nos) It is expected that with the increasing rate of warming in Tungnath the timberline vis-a- Publications of phenological behavior of treeline species would change markedly in vis climate change knowledge future leading to changes in ecosystem properties. and human uses products (No.) R. campanulatum , a non-palatable species of wider niche width might preponderate at the expense of herbs and other treeline species in future and may bring out compositional changes in treeline vegetation and
carbon storage. Static tree line of fir since last four decades in the Tungnath area inspite of warming trend. Increased land use pressure for last few decades might also have played significant role in the stability of fir ecotone limit. Recent year regeneration of fir noticed by the presence of few seedlings near the fir limit could indicate regeneration and advancement of fir in the Tungnath area but needsuture f monitoring on the overall survival and growth of fir in relationto climate and land use factors.
Awareness and Awareness camps/ 1 awareness camp was organized with active participation of Photographs Training material/ programs stakeholders along with shopkeepers and horse union members etc. for attached knowledge organized (Nos.) biodiversity conservation, and waste management. (Annexure I) products for Publications of Knowledge materials on mushroom cultivation and nursery preparation sustainable use of knowledge have been developed for timberline connected communities at resources for products (No.) Tungnath. improved livelihood.
Promotion of Human use of Citizen Science timberline through ecosystems and its engagement of contribution to community livelihoods ( Nos./ groups Area ) Publications of knowledge products (No.)
Annexure B
8. Progress (July 2018-September 2018 )
Supportive documents
(Attach files)
Quantifiable Monitoring Progress made against deliverables in terms of monitoring
(All files shall be in Zip
Deliverables indicators indicators
format and to be uploaded
in web portal)
1 2 3 4
Timberline Mapping Creation of No of long term database and monitoring sites/ Spatial data on timberline of entire Indian Central Himalaya was knowledge plots established
generated from maps developed using satellite images, and was products on in 3 states (Nos.)
subject to various statistical treatments. vegetation
Uttarakhand: science and tree- soil water Regional Timberline in Uttarakhand State: relations of The total length of timberline was 2,750.47 km in the entire state of timberline in 3 Uttarakhand but is broken at several places. In rare locations of the principal sites mountainous topography, timberline may descend to 2601m amsl
altitude (negligible but present) and ascends upto 4,366 m amsl (J&K, Sikkim and
altitude. Uttarakhand).
Himachal Pradesh
Regional Timberline in Himachal Pradesh:
The total length of timberline was 3,255 km in the entire state of Himanchal Pradesh but is broken at several places. In rare locations of the mountainous topography, timberline may descend to 2426m amsl altitude (negligible but present) and ascends upto 4,262 m amsl altitude. More than one third (80%) of the total timberline in the region occurred between 3200m and 3800m asl altitude. It is apparent from uncommon pattern in the watersheds that mountainous topography has major role in occurrence of timberline at a particular watershed or area. Most of the timberline is between 3000m and 3800m while above this minimal portion of timberline occurs. This elevation range can be considered as regional timberline elevation at this latitude.
Temperature Lapse Rate (TLR) Temperature data from all the stations installed on Daksum- Sinthan transect in Jammu and Kashmir was aggregated to daily values for various analyses. Temperature Lapse Rate (TLR) for winter season (DJF) and pre- monsson season (MAM) is calculated for Daksum-Sinthan transect in J&K while the winter season TLR for Yukasm- Figures attached (Annexure I) Dzongri transect in Sikkim was also estimated. During winter, the highest TLR was observed for Sikkim (- 0 0 0.46 C/100m) followed by Uttarakhand (-0.36 C/100m) and for 0 Sikkim (-0.31 C/100m). Results indicate that winter TLR increased from the western side to the eastern side of the Himalayas. 0 The pre-monsoon season TLR (-0.60 C/100m) for Daksum-
Sinthan transect was observed slightly lower than that for the 0 Chopta-Tungnath transect (-0.62 C/100m) in Uttarakhand. These varying patterns of TLR, from east to west, suggest that the different monsoon regime in Himalaya have distinct TLR
and it is governed by regional climatic conditions. Further, TLR for maximum temperature was found higher than 0 for the minimum temperature for winter (-0.47 C versus (- 0 0.20 C per 100m elevation) as well as pre-monsoon season (- 0 0 0.82 C versus (-0.42 C per 100m elevation) for Daksum- Sinthan transect.
Vegetation Sampling Data base and knowledge products have been developed for two principal sites (J&K and Uttarakhand transects); work underway for third site (Sikkim).
Jammu & Kashmir
In this quarter, the South facing (warmer) slopeor the sun facing slope of the study site (Daksum-Sinthan, Kashmir Himalaya) was investigated for vegetation changes.
Elevational pattern in species richness:
South facing (warmer) slope
The closed canopy forest in the south facing slope stretches from 2200-3300 m amsl and is chiefly comprised of Pinus wallichiana, Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana with Tables & Figures interspersion of few individuals of Prunus cornuta, Acer attached (Annexure I) caesium and other broadleaved species.
Treeline ecotone stretches from 3300-3600 m amsland most
dominant species in this ecotone are Pinus wallichiana and Abies pindrow .
Treeline species on this slope are Pinus wallichiana and Abies pindrow.
Alpine meadow stretches from 3700-3800 mamsl in which Juniperus wallichiana mats are dominant and Polygonum affine along with Cotoneaster spp .occur at an elevation of3800 m amsl.
North facing (Cooler) slope elevation transect
In comparison to South facing slope, the closed canopy forest on the North facing (cooler) slope stretches from 2200-3200 m amsl being formed by Abies pindrow, along with interspersion of Picea smithiana,Pinus wallichiana, Prunus cornuta, Acer caesium, Euonymus fimbriatus and Aesculus indica. The dominant tree and shrub species that form the closed canopy along this slope are Abies pindrow and Viburnum foetans , respectively.
Treeline ecotone stretches from 3200-3700 m amsl, with Betula utilis and Abies pindrow as the dominant species in the ecotone. Few individuals of Acer caesium and Prunus cornuta also occur together with Betula and Aesculus species.
Treeline on this slope is represented by Betula utilis and the alpine meadow stretches from 3700-3800 m amsl in which
Rhododendron (forming mat) and Cotoneaster spp .
Growth Foms:
In case of trees Pinus wallichiana dominated the elevation gradient followed by Abies pindrow with individuals of Picea smithiana at the mid elevation gradient along the south facing slope. However in the north facing slope, Abies pindrow dominates the forest in the lower half and Betula utilis dominates the forest in the upper half of the elevation gradient.
In case of shrubs Viburnum foetans, Indigofera heterantha and Rosa brunonii dominated the lower half of elevation gradient while as Juniperus wallichiana dominated the upper half of elevation gradient in the south facing slope. However, in the north facing slope Viburnum foetans and Rhododendron campanulatum dominates the forest in lower and upper half of the elevation gradient respectively.
In case of sub-shrubs, Thymus serpyllum dominated the south facing slope while Sambucus wightiana was more along the north facing slope.
Density of trees and shrubs in south facing slope
Along the south facing slope, Pinus wallichiana was more denser followed by Abies pindrow in case of tree species and the density of Pinus wallichiana was highest in 3100 m amsl band and that of Abies pindrow was highest in 3400 m amsl band while Indigofera heterantha was more denser followed
by Juniperus wallichiana in case of shrub species and the density of Indigofera heterantha was highest in 2200 m amsl band and that of Juniperus wallichiana was highest in 3700 m amsl band of alpine meadow. Uttarakhand
Frequent field surveys were conducted by project team in Uttarakhand site from April to Mid of September (covering spring to Rainy seasons) to complete two more altitude transects for vegetation attributes (i.e., diversity, distribution, regeneration, etc.), Soil sampling and Disturbance intensity analysis along the altitude transect. With these surveys 3 altitude transects in different situations/aspects of selected site (i.e., Tungnath) has been completed to make the vegetation database more comprehensive. Further analysis of datasets regarding Trees, saplings and disturbance (Lopping and cutting) has been also completed. Moreover lichens and pteridophyte sampling has been also conducted in one altitude transect (Transect-C). The analysis of another one transects dataset of trees and saplings along with the herbs, shrubs, pteridophytes and lichens is in progress.
Sikkim One vertical transect study is completed in Yuksam- Dzongri, West Sikkim along an elevational gradient between 2000-4000m asl. Of which, the elevation gradient of 3000-4000m asl was surveyed during the July to August, 2018.
A total of 11 sites, deferring in 100m elevation distance from each other, were studied along the gradient.
Herbarium datasets of sampled plant species prepared and identified.
Till date approx a total of 68 tree species, 39 shrubs and
108 herb species are documented along the studied elevation gradient, this number can be varied after final identification.
Lichen samples collected from elevation gradient and herbarium specimens (1046 samples) prepared for further identifications.
To replicate similar methodology across the Sikkim east Himalaya, to develop a holistic understanding, sites
identification has been started
A complete documentationof the plant species in between
2000-4000 elevation range of hole Sikkim Himalayan region (including lichens) is under process.
Phenology
Measurements on soil temperature, air temperature and air humidity were taken for the marked stands of all the five tree species (viz., Abies spectabilis, Betula utilis, Quercus semecarpifolia, Rhododendron arboreum and R.
campanulatum) (Table 1). Periodicity of major phenophases was observed in the 100
marked individuals of all the species (Table 2). Tables & Figures Leaves were collected for leaf area and leaf mass and data attached (Annexure I) computation is under progress. Soil samples were collected from (0-30 cm depth) for the marked stands of all the five species and soil analysis for pH, Organic
Carbon, total Nitrogen is continuing.
Within the marked population of all the 5 species data on all the above parameters was collected from both the lower and upper altitudinal limit of distribution of each of these species.
Tree Water Relation During the rainy season the Pre dawn water potential values (ΨPD ) ranged between -0.20± 0.006 ( A. spectabilis) and -0.40± 0.006 MPa ( R. arboreum ). The mid day water potential ( ΨMD ) values ranged between -1.36± 0.04 ( B. utilis ) and -1.61± 0.03MPa ( R. arboreum ).
The daily change in water potential between pre-dawn and mid day water potential ranged between 1.09 and 1.20MPa for all species.
The morning leaf conductance during the rainy season varied 2 -1 between 124.6 ± 4.99 m mol m- sec and 275.2±3.35 m mol m- 2 -1 sec . The afternoon leaf conductance for all species ranged 2 -1 between 92.2 ± 1.58 and 141.3±2.84m mol m- sec .
In the rainy season B. utilis had the highest conductance whereas Q. semecarpifolia had the lowest conductance.
During rainy season the soil water potential in top layer (10cm)
ranged between -1.28 ± 0.01 and -1.60 ± 0.10 MPa. The soil Annexure I water potential at 60cm depth ranged from -0.60 ± 0.01 to -0.83 ± 0.03 MPa indicating sufficient moisture in the soils at all depths and sites .
Tree Ring Width Chronology Ongoing Tree ring measurements of ~350 tree core samples of Abies spectabilis (fir) collected from Sinthan Area (3000-3500
m asl) (J&K) has been completed and a ~450 years old regional Chronology (1560 to 2017 AD) of fir trees from Daksum and Sinthan has been developed for the area (Figure 1).
Chronology has also been developed for the previously measured 50 cores of Pinus wallichiana (pine) collected near Sinthan area (J&K) for climate-growth relationship study. The 171 years old chronology extends from 2017 to 1846 AD
(Figure 2). The initial correlation of the tree ring chronology developed for lower altitude Daksum area (2400 m asl) shows the positive correlation with the temperature of winter months (December, January and February) and negative correlation with the temperature of summer-and monsoon months (June- July-August). For the precipitation, May month is reflected significant positive. Further analysis on the climate-growth
relationship from the Kashmir region is in continuation. Diameter at breast height (dbh) for each tree was calculated from the measured girth of the sampled trees from Daksum- Sinthan area (J&K). A Relationship model between dbh and age has been developed using the dataset of 170 trees of Abies spectabilis (Figure 3). Analysis is in continuation to understanding the age-growth relationship of the fir trees in the area.
Snow Removal Experiment The identified Early snow melt (ESM) and Late snow melt (LSM) micro-sites were marked (see the photograph attached below) at different altitudinal zones viz. 3200- 3300m, 3300-3400m, 3400-3500m and 3500-3600m.
- Data on abundance is being collected from the monitoring plots on monthly basis
- Phenological events are monitored at 15 days interval as per BBCH scale
- The phenology of 107 species (86 species at timberline ecotone) and 72, 56, and 52 at 3300-3400m, 3400-3500m and 3500-3600m in alpine meadows) are fortnightly under observation
Composite soil samples (0-15 cm) at different altitudes for Early and Late snow melt microsites were collected for soil nutrient analysis (N, P, K and OC).
Livelihood Interventions 34 community groups formed and trained in various sectors, benefiting representatives from 170 families.
Collection of data and information at village/field level of the demonstrated interventions at regular intervals done for further analysis.
The support and services are extended to beneficiaries in consultation with line departments for maximizing the benefits from interventions.
Improved Publications of understanding knowledge depicted from products (No.) thematic maps and
database of timberline ecosystem as a special conservation entity and implication to sustainable management and livelihood enhancement.
Improved Community Tree Ring Width Chronology understanding of groups trained Increase in winter month’s temperature could result in future changes in (Nos) positive growth of the fir trees. However further process timberline vis-a- Publications of on the reconstruction of winter and summer vis climate change knowledge temperatures in progress. and human uses products (No.)
The dbh and age relationship model shows some variation
in the growth of the fir trees. Few fir trees with low dbh
and older in age could indicate their growth in stress
conditions compared to the trees with less age and more
girth growing in much favourable conditions.
and Awareness Awareness Awareness camps organized at regular intervals with active Annexure II Training material/ camps/ programs participation of community members for Biodiversity knowledge organized (Nos.) Conservation and Solid Waste Management. products for Publications of
After getting the basic training on Ringal weaving, two sustainable use of knowledge
beneficiaries (Bali Ram and Deepak Lal) got recognition in the resources for products (No.)
improved district for their modern handicrafts. livelihood.
15 beneficiaries enrolled in Ringal weaving activities attended
10 days training cum workshop supported by DIC (District
Industry Centre) to develop their skills for making modern
handicrafts.
Knowledge products in a form of extension literature on nursery
preparation, off-season vegetable cultivation, mushroom
cultivation has been drafted and will be published in next quarter
for disseminating among community members.
One day brainstorming workshop attended/presented by PI and
Research team for finalizing the products on project outcomes
for wider dissemination.
Promotion of Human use of As the whole studied region indicates itself as a high tourism Citizen Science timberline zone as it contributes to 47.35 % of the total economy generated through ecosystems and by all livelihood activities, a foot-trail (Deoriataal-Chopta- engagement of its contribution to Tunganth) map of the whole region (Bhiri-Makkumath-Chopta- community livelihoods ( Nos./ Tungnath-Chandrashila and Sari-Deoriataal-Chopta-Tungnath) groups Area ) drafted describing the natural heritage, biodiversity, natural
Publications of resources and hot-spots for tourism activities e.g. Bird Watching.
knowledge
Promotion and demonstration of Home Stay concept finalized
products (No.)
and will be demonstrated.
Timberline mapping of Uttarakhand:
Fig 1. Aspect map of Uttarakhand
16
14
12
10
8
Percent 6
4
2
0
Aspect
Fig 2. Utta rakhand State- Different Aspect categories
Fig. 3 Slope Map of Uttarakhand
30
25
20
15
Percent 10
5
0 < 20 20-30 30-40 > 40 Slope (Degree)
Fig 4. Uttarakhand State - Different Slope categories
Fig 5. Altitudinal zone map of Uttarakhand
Fig 6. Timberline map of Uttarakhand derived from Landsat 8 Timberline mapping of Himanchal Pradesh:
18
16
14
12
10
8
Percent 6
4
2
0
Aspect
Fig 7. Himachal Pradesh- Different Aspect categories
Fig 8. Slope Map of Himachal Pradesh
Fig 9. Timberline map of Himachal Pradesh derived from Landsat 8
40
35
30
25
20
Percent 15
10
5
0
Altitude
Fig.10. Distribution of total timberline in different altitudinal range
2200
10 3800 2300
8 3700 2400
6
3600 2500
4 South facing slope
2
3500 2600 South facing slope
0
North facing slope
3400 2700
North facing slope
3300 2800
3200 2900
3100 3000
Fig. 11. Number of species of trees and shrubs along elevation gradient in the north and south facing slopes of the study area
South facing slope North facing slope
2200
3800 2 2300
3700 1.5 2400
1 3600 2500
0.5
3500 2600
0
3400 2700
3300 2800
3200 2900
3100 3000
Fig. 12. Number of species of shrubs along elevation gradient in the north and south facing slopes of the study area
8.00 Euonymus
fimbriatus 3.50 Euonymus 7.00 A esculus indica f imbriatus
3.00 A esculus 6.00 Prunus cornuta i ndica 5.00 2.50 P runus A cer caesium cornuta 4.00 2.00 A cer caesium Pinus wallichiana 3.00 1.50 P inus
2.00 Picea smithiana Number of individuals wallichiana 1.00 P icea 1.00 B etula utilis Number of individuals smithiana 0.50 0.00 B etula utilis A bies pindrow 0.00
2200 2500 2800 3100 3400 3700 A bies pindrow
Elevation (m) 2200 2500 2800 3100 3400 3700 Elevation (m)
2 Fig. 13. Number of individuals of trees per 10 m areain each 100 m amsl elevation band along elevation gradient (A---- South facing slope, B----North facing slope)
Vib urnum foetans 18.00 160.00 Ja sminum humile
Spiraea canescens Rosa spp 16.00
140.00 Sor baria tomentosa
Viburnum 14.00
120.00 Skimmia anquetilia
fo etans
S orbaria
individ uals 12.00 Rosa brunonii
Rhododendron 100.00 to mentosa
Rosa brunonii Robinia
10.00 80.00 Ps eudoacacia
Rhododendron
8.00 c ampanulatum ca mpanulatum
of
m b er Rhododendron 60.00 Rhododendron
6.00 an thopogon anthopogon Ple ctranthus
Number of individuals
40.00 Plectranthus
rug osus ru gosus 4.00 Pa rrotiopsis
Ju niper jacquemontiana 20.00 2.00 Jun iper wallichiana w allichiana
In digofera
0.00 Jasminum officinale heterantha 0.00
22 00 250 0 280 0 310 0 340 0 370 0
C otoneaster spp Ind igofera 2200 2500 2800 3100 3400 3700 he terantha Elevation (m) Cra taegus Elevation (m) so ngarica
2 Fig. 14. Number of individuals of shrubs per 5 m area in each 100 m a msl elevation band along elevation gradient (A----South facing slope, B----North facing sl ope)
2.50
Thymus 0.25
2.00
serpyllum
Th ymus serpyllum
0.20 Sambucus
1.50
wightiana
Sa mbucus 0.15
Polygonum
1.00 w ghtiana
0.10 affine
Po lygonum affine
Astragalus spp
0.50 0.05
Number of individuals
Number of individuals
As tragalus spp
0.00
0.00
2200 2500 2800 3100 3400 3700
2200 2500 2800 3100 3400 370 0 Elevation (m) Elevation (m)
2 Fig. 15. Number of individuals of sub shrubs per 5 m area in each 100 m amsl elevation band along elevation gradient (A----South facing slope, B----North facing sl ope)
Table 1: Vegetation profile on North facing (cooler) and South facing (warmer) slopes
South facing slope Dominant species North facing slope Dominant species
Closed Canopy Forest Pinus wallichiana, Abies pindrow, Closed Canopy Forest Abies pindrow and Viburnum (2200- 3300 m amsl) Viburnum foetans, Indigofera heterantha (2200- 3200 m amsl) foetans and Rosa brunonii
Timberline (3300 m amsl) Pinus wallichianaAbies pindrow Timberline (3200 m amsl) Abies pindrow
Treeline ecotone (3300 -3600 m Pinus wallichiana,Abies pindrow and Treeline ecotone (3200 -3700 m Abies pindrow, Betula utilis and amsl) Juniper wallichiana amsl) Rhododendron campanulatum
Tree line(3600 m amsl) Pinus wallichiana and Abies pindrow Tree line (3700 m amsl) Betula utilis
Alpine meadow (3700 -3800 m Juniperus wallichiana Alpine meadow (3700 -3800 m Cotoneaster spp ., Rhododendron amsl) (mats) amsl) anthopogon and Rhododendron campanulatum
Table 2: Number of species of shrubs, sub-shrubs and trees along elevation gradient in the two aspects of study area
Aspect North facing (cooler) slope South facing (warmer) slope Elevation (m) No. of Shrubs No. of Subshrubs No. of Trees No. of Shrubs No. of Subshrubs No. of Trees
2200 7 1 2 4 1 1
2300 10 1 3 5 1 1
2400 4 1 3 6 0 5
2500 3 1 5 7 2 3
2600 1 1 4 2 1 3
2700 1 0 5 2 1 3
2800 2 0 5 3 0 3
2900 1 0 4 3 1 3
3000 3 0 4 3 1 2
3100 2 0 3 4 0 2
3200 3 0 4 5 0 4
3300 2 0 4 4 1 4
3400 2 0 2 4 0 2
3500 2 0 2 3 1 2
3600 2 0 1 5 0 2
3700 4 0 1 2 0 0
3800 3 1 0 3 2 0
2 2 Table 3: Number of individuals of trees per 10 m area, shrubs and subshrubs per 5 m area in 100 m amsl elevational bands in north and south facing slopes.
Aspect/ Elevational band North facing (cooler) slope South facing (warmer) slope
No. of individuals of No. of individuals of 2 No. of individuals of No. of individuals of No. of individuals of No. of individuals shrubs per 5 m sub -shrubs per 5 2 2 2 2 Elevation (m) trees per 10 m shrubs per 5 m sub -shrubs per 5 m of trees per 10 m m2 2200 3.03 5.72 0.10 1.40 145.63 0.33
2300 2.57 6.23 0.15 1.27 43.95 1.53
2400 2.67 9.50 0.18 3.87 41.20 0.00
2500 2.83 8.45 0.03 2.60 69.45 0.70
2600 2.37 7.47 0.08 4.37 13.18 0.60
2700 2.80 6.07 0 3.87 19.38 0.82
2800 2.70 2.92 0 5.00 11.13 0.00
2900 2.53 4.48 0 2.57 45.12 0.25
3000 2.20 0.55 0 4.87 20.75 0.12
3100 2.63 0.47 0 4.83 2.02 0.00
3200 3.20 0.98 0 4.87 6.33 0.00
3300 3.33 0.93 0 4.33 10.95 0.15
3400 2.77 0.92 0 7.73 8.38 0.00
3500 2.73 3.98 0 1.87 38.92 1.12
3600 2.47 7.18 0 0.50 50.95 0.00
3700 0.30 15.67 0 0 65.63 0.00
3800 0 14.98 0.22 0 4.97 2.47
2 Table 4: Number of individuals of trees per 10 m areain 100 m amsl elevation band along elevation gradient in the two slopes (S- face refers to south facing slope and N-face refers to north facing slope)
Aesculus Euonymus Abies pind row Betula utilis Picea smithiana Pinus wallichiana Acer caesium Prunus cornuta indica fimbriatus
N- N- N- N- N- S- N- S- N- Elevation (m) S- face face S- face face S- face face S- face N-face S- face face S- face face face face face face
2200 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.93 1.40 2.10 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2300 0.00 0.63 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.80 1.27 1.13 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2400 0.03 1.07 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.70 3.03 0.90 0.03 0.00 0.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2500 0.17 1.60 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.63 2.37 0.53 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.03
2600 0.10 1.80 0.00 0.00 1.23 0.40 3.03 0.03 0.00 0.17 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2700 0.63 2.20 0.00 0.00 0.23 0.07 3.00 0.00 0.00 0.17 0.00 0.37 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2800 1.90 2.03 0.00 0.00 0.97 0.30 2.13 0.00 0.00 0.30 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2900 0.13 2.03 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 2.40 0.00 0.00 0.50 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3000 0.00 2.17 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.00 4.77 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3100 0.03 2.33 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 4.80 0.00 0.00 0.27 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3200 0.93 2.13 0.03 0.03 0.23 0.00 3.67 0.00 0.00 0.97 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3300 2.90 2.83 0.10 0.30 0.13 0.00 1.20 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.13 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3400 4.80 2.03 0.00 0.73 0.00 0.00 2.93 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3500 0.20 1.27 0.00 1.47 0.00 0.00 1.67 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3600 0.30 0.00 0.00 2.47 0.00 0.00 0.20 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3700 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.30 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3800 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2 Table 5: Number of individuals of shrubs per 5 m area in 100 m amsl elevation band along elevation gradient in the two slopes
Elevation (m) 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3000 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3600 3700 3800 South 0.08 4.02 0.95 2.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.48 0.02 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.00 1.28 0.77 0.38 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Berberis lycium facing
South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Clematis montana facing
South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.22 4.20 0.95 4.03 0.62 0.07 1.02 facing North 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.22 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.55 10.98 Cotoneaster spp facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
North 0.13 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Crataegus songarica facing South 66.08 19.20 4.28 35.60 2.30 9.95 0.13 39.57 19.68 0.88 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Indigofera heterantha facing
North 0.85 0.13 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
North 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Jasminum officinale facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 5.02 1.92 34.40 47.18 65.57 3.28 facing
North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.08 0.08 Juniper wallichiana facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
Parrotiopsis North 3.20 0.47 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 jacquemontiana facing South 27.45 5.17 22.05 1.95 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.28 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Plectranthus rugosus facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.42 0.00 0.67 facing Rhododendron North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 9.80 3.92 anthopogon facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.72 0.00 0.00 facing
Rhododendron North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.52 3.80 7.15 4.23 0.00 campanulatum facing
South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
North 0.00 1.12 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Robinia Pseudoacacia facing South 52.02 7.82 0.90 7.20 0.00 0.00 0.03 2.40 0.03 0.82 4.97 0.75 5.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.07 0.27 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.15 0.08 0.87 0.40 0.18 0.00 0.00 0.00 Rosa brunonii facing
South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.22 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Skimmia anquetilia facing South 0.00 0.00 8.12 1.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.00 0.27 1.03 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Sorbaria tomentosa facing
South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Spiraea canescens facing South 0.00 7.75 4.90 17.65 10.88 9.43 10.97 3.15 1.03 0.28 0.77 0.38 0.43 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 1.12 2.62 7.68 8.05 7.47 5.92 2.88 4.48 0.23 0.32 0.68 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Viburnum foetans facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.98 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing
North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Rosa spp. facing South 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.32 0.60 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 facing North 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Jasminum humile facing
2 Table 6: Number of individuals of sub-shrubs per 5 m area in 100 m amsl elevational bands along elevation gradient in the two slopes
Elevation (m) 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3000 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3600 3700 3800
South facing 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.43 North Astragalus sp. facing 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
South facing 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.03
Polygonum North affine facing 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.22 South facing 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Sambucus North wightiana facing 0.00 0.00 0.18 0.03 0.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 South facing 0.33 1.53 0.00 0.62 0.60 0.82 0.00 0.25 0.12 0.00 0.00 0.12 0.00 1.12 0.00 0.00 0.00
Thymus North serpyllum facing 0.10 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2 Table 7: Density of treespecies per 10 m areaalongelevation gradient in the south facing and north facing slopes
Elevation 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3000 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3600 3700 3800 South 0 0 0.03 0.17 0.10 0.63 1.90 0.13 0 0.03 0.93 2.90 4.80 0.20 0.30 0 0 facing North 0 0.63 1.07 1.6 1.8 2.2 2.03 2.03 2.17 2.33 2.13 2.83 2.03 1.27 0 0 0 Abies pindrow facing
South 0 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0 0 0 0.17 0.17 0.3 0.5 0.03 0.27 0.97 0.07 0 0 0 0 0 Acer caesium facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
North 0 0 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Aesculus indica facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03 0.3 0.73 1.47 2.47 0.3 0 Betula utilis facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
North 0 0 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Euonymus fimbriatus facing South 0 0 0.10 0.07 1.23 0.23 0.97 0.03 0.10 0 0.23 0.13 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0.93 0.8 0.7 0.63 0.4 0.07 0.3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Picea smithiana facing South 1.40 1.27 3.03 2.37 3.03 3 2.13 2.40 4.77 4.80 3.67 1.20 2.93 1.67 0.20 0 0 facing
North 2.1 1.13 0.9 0.53 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pinus wallichiana facing
South 0 0 0.67 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0 0 0 0 0.37 0.07 0 0 0.03 0.07 0.13 0 0 0 0 0 Prunus cornuta facing
2 Table 8: Density per 5 m areaof shrub species alongelevationgradient in the south facing and north facing slopes
Elevation 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3000 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3600 3700 3800 South 0.08 4.02 0.95 2.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.07 0 0 0.48 0.02 0 0 facing North 0 1.28 0.77 0.38 0 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Berberis lycium facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Clematis montana facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03 0.22 4.2 0.95 4.03 0.62 0.07 1.02 facing North 0 0.02 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.22 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.55 10.98 Cotoneaster spp facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
Crataegus North 0.13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 songarica facing South 66.08 19.2 4.28 35.6 2.3 9.95 0.13 39.57 19.68 0.88 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing Indigofera North 0.85 0.13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 heterantha facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
Jasminum North 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 officinale facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5.02 1.92 34.4 47.18 65.57 3.28 facing Juniper North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03 0.08 0.08 wallichiana facing
South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
Parrotiopsis North 3.2 0.47 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 jacquemontiana facing South 27.45 5.17 22.05 1.95 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing Plectranthus North 0.28 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 rugosus facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.42 0 0.67 facing
Rhododendron North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9.8 3.92 anthopogon facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.72 0 0 facing
Rhododendron North 0 0 0 0 0 0.15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.52 3.8 7.15 4.23 0 campanulatum facing Robinia South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pseudoacacia facing
North 0 1.12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
South 52.02 7.82 0.9 7.2 0 0 0.03 2.4 0.03 0.82 4.97 0.75 5.08 0 0 0 0 facing North 0.07 0.27 0.02 0 0 0 0 0 0.1 0.15 0.08 0.87 0.4 0.18 0 0 0 Rosa brunonii facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing Skimmia anquetili North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.22 0.07 0 0 0 0 0 a facing
South 0 0 8.12 1.03 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing
Sorbaria North 0 0.27 1.03 0.02 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 tomentosa facing South 0 7.75 4.9 17.65 10.88 9.43 10.97 3.15 1.03 0.28 0.77 0.38 0.43 0 0 0 0 facing
North 1.12 2.62 7.68 8.05 7.47 5.92 2.88 4.48 0.23 0.32 0.68 0 0 0 0 0 0 Viburnum foetans facing
South 0 0 0 3.98 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Rosa spp facing South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.32 0.6 0 0 0 0 0 facing North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Jasminum humile facing
2 Table 9: Density sub-shrubsper 5 m areaof alongelevationgradient in the south facing and north facing slopes
Elevation (m) 2200 2300 2400 2500 2600 2700 2800 2900 3000 3100 3200 3300 3400 3500 3600 3700 3800
South facing 0 0 0 0.08 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.03 0 0 0 0 0.43
Astragalus sp. North 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
facing
South
facing 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 122
Polygonum North affine facing 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13
South
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
facing
Sambucus North
0 0 0.18 0.03 0.08 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 wightiana facing
South
0.60
facing 0.33 1.53 0.00 0.62 0.82 0.00 0.25 0.12 0.00 0.00 0.12 0.00 1.12 0.00 0.00 0.00
Thymus North serpyllum facing 0.10 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Plate 1.
Plate 2.