Temporal changes in Oak forests over last three decades in western Himalaya, India

Abstract

The distribution and dynamics of forest resources provide basis for management and conservation planning. Long-term data and information is important to improve our understanding on spatial and temporal variations of a particular ecosystem. In view of this, distribution and dynamics of temperate forests was assessed for last three decade in the western Himalaya (Uttarakhand). Comparative assessment of existing data and information on Oak species (Quercus leucotrichophora) found in Uttarakhand is performed with present status of forest to provide the consequence of climate change and anthropogenic disturbances. Results of the study reveals a significant increase in tree density of majority of the species studied. Total Basal Area (TBA) of targeted Oak forests has significantly increased (p<0.01) over the last three decades. There exists a significant increase in tree, saplings and seedling density of Q. leucotrichophora and Q. lanuginosa. The density of tree of Q. floribunda increased significantly, while saplings and seedlings declined; this indicates poor regeneration of the species. The ecological condition of Q. semecarpifolia is alarming due to huge decline in the number of saplings, and complete absence of seedlings. The changes in the forest dynamics is attributed to environmental perturbations and anthropogenic pressures.

Keywords

• Forest dynamics
• Oak forests
• Temperate forest
• Regeneration
• Conservation