International Journal of Forest Sciences (2024).

4(1):31-46

Research Paper Open Access

Vegetation Structure of Western Himalayan Temperate Forests in

Ghamot National Park in Neelum Valley Azad Jammu And Kashmir,
Pakistan
Muhammad Jahangeer1, Muhammad Siddique Awan1, Muhammad Basharat1, Riaz Aziz
Minhas1, Mir Muhammad Saleem1, and Muhammad Shakeel Awan2
1. Department of Zoology, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Muzaffarabad-13100, Pakistan.
2. Department of Botany, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Muzaffarabad-13100, Pakistan

*Corresponding author e-mail: khushikhlaqjahangeer@gmail.com

Citation: Jahangeer, M., M. S. Awan, M. Basharat, R. A. Minhas, M. M. Saleem, and M. S. Awan. 2024. Vegetation Structure of Western
Himalayan Temperate Forests in Ghamot National Park in Neelum Valley Azad Jammu And Kashmir, Pakistan. International Journal of Forest
Sciences. 4: 31-46.

SUMMARY
The Himalayan forest ecosystem offers important services and income to distant mountain
communities. The current study was conducted to assess the vegetation structure of Ghamot
National Park in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. A total of 20 locales were chosen, 452
quadrates were laid in 20 localities, and 489 plant species from 77 families were recorded in 18
sites with 18 communities. 9 (1.84%) of the 489 species were trees, 32 (6.54%) were shrubs, and
448 (91.61%) were herbaceous, including 46 fern species. Asteraceae (n=46, 9%) had the most
species in the research region, followed by Poaceae (32, 7%), Ranunculaceae (n=29, 6%),
Lammiaceae (n=25, 5%), Rosaceae (n=22, 4%), and Fabaceae (21, 4%). Out of the entire number
of families (n=77), dominating families (n=16, 20.77) account for 63% of the local flora, with 308
species, while remaining families (n=61, 79.22) account for 37% of the whole flora, with 1-7
species. The importance value index (IVI) of each community's documented species was
determined. Juniperus communis had the highest average IVI (4.99), followed by Abies pindrow
(4.40), Salix flabellaris (3.70), Viburnum grandiflorum (3.65), and Betula utilis (3.65). To protect
and maintain forest services, authorities should establish conservation policies at the local and
regional levels.
Keywords: Conservation, Biodiversity, Dominant, Forest, Families, Elevation, Communities,
Himalayan Mountains
Received in January, 2024 Accepted in March, 2024

INTRODUCTION
The Himalayas are home to an estimated 25,000 plant species, accounting for 10% of
the world's total, with 21 vegetation types and 60 Eco region types (Helmer et al.,
2002). The most essential components of regional hotspot biodiversity have been
studied: the species composition and vegetative structure of Himalayan forest types.
The alpine zone is a major reservoir of biodiversity, with many rare and endangered
species (Korner, 2003). The alpine and sub-alpine zones of the Western Himalayas
(WH) are far more geographically extensive than those of the Eastern Himalayas
(EH), as demonstrated by a larger pool of vascular plants (Rawat, 2007).

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Forest ecosystems provide valuable services such as air quality regulation,

waste treatment, water purification, and water flow regulation (Hein et al., 2006); soil
erosion prevention, climate regulation, and soil fertility maintenance (Klein et al.,
2007); pollination, seed dispersal, pest and disease regulation (Gallai et al., 2009);
and preservation of migratory species life cycles, nutrient recycling, spiritual,
religious, and aesthetic values, cultural diversity, and biodiversity (De Groot et al.,
2002). Approximately 10% of the world's population is directly dependent on
mountain forest resources, with an additional 40% relying on them indirectly (Schild,
2016).
Sustainable forest structure management is crucial for local populations'
survival as well as the present climatic conditions (Cronin & Pandya, 2009). More
than 60% of the Himalayan forest ecosystem was lost during the preceding century
(Pokhriyal et al., 2010). Poor economic conditions, population growth, and a lack of
information among local populations about forest surrounding regions pose the
biggest threats to forest diversity (Gairola et al., 2008). Deforestation, overgrazing,
trampling, soil erosion, overexploitation, overuse, and incorrect collection all put
enormous biotic strain on local forests, negatively impacting forest structure and
functions (Costanza et al., 1997).
Because of the fragility and remoteness of the Himalayan Mountains, data on
vegetation dynamics in Kashmir valley are limited. A survey of the literature finds
that prior work in AJK has been confined and restricted to small regions, particularly
at higher elevations, due to remoteness, inaccessibility, and insecurity caused by
continuing military activity between Pakistan and India along the Line of Control
(Dad & Khan, 2011; Altaf, and Umair. 2022).
Existing knowledge gaps underlined the need for a deeper understanding of
western Himalayan vegetation dynamics in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in
the current study's concept and approach. The present research Endeavour was
designed to uncover new ecological routes and map the whole flora of Ghamot
National Park. The study was conducted in an altitudinal range of 2300m-4400m, in a
variety of locations and habitats with varying viewpoints and terrain. This study
examined vegetation at diverse altitudinal gradients, different perspectives, altering
slope degrees, and unique ecosystems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study area
Ghamot National Park (GNP) is located in the upper Neelum valley, a section of the
eastern Himalayas, 170 kilometers north of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu
and Kashmir. The research region is located at latitude 35° 24 N and longitude 73° 57
E, at an elevation of 2439-4949 m above sea level. The park is located on the
outskirts of Surgan Nullah, approximately 25 kilometers from Sharda. The Kaghan
Valley in NWFP borders it on the west, while Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir
borders it on the east. The road from Sharda to Ghamot National Park is seven
kilometers long and consists of a carpeted road up to Surgan, a small town at the
entrance to the Surgan-valley, and a further 16 to 18 kilometers of Jeep-able roads

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from Surgan village to Ghamot village, a small settlement at the park's boundary. The
climate varies with altitude, but the forest regions in the research area are commonly
classified as moist temperate forest, dry temperate forest, sub-alpine scrub, and alpine
meadows. Winters are quite cold, with thick snowfall. Summers are quite nice and
refreshing. Snow on high summits may last until June or even later (glacier) (Figure
1).

Figure 1. Location map of study area

Floristic Diversity analysis

Following Ahmed and Shaukat, (2012) 14 phytosociology vegetation sample surveys
were done in July, August, September, and November of 2020 and February to June
of 2021. For vegetation sampling, a line transect with multiple quadrate approach was
utilised. In 20 places, 85 line transects (total area covered 24km) with 425 quadrates
were set. The length of the transect varied depending on topography and vegetation
factors, but the maximum length was 500m and the lowest length was 250m. Along
the transect line, quadrates were placed. All of the quadrates placed were of uniform
size and quantity, with the maximum number of quadrates for shrubs in each locale
being 15, 10 for shrubs, and 5 for trees. Dimensions of each quadrate were 1x1m2,
5x5m2 and 10x10m2 for herbs, shrubs and trees respectively (Figure 2).

Phytosociological analysis
Following Hamayun shaheen et al. (2017), standard phytosociological methods were
employed to assess density, frequency, canopy cover, relative values, and the
important value index. To calculate the diversity indices, Simpson (1949) and
Shannon and Weaver (1979) were employed (1959). Pielou (1964) computed
evenness, whereas Menhinick (1964) measured species richness (1975). Community
maturity was assessed after Pichi-Sermolli (1948) (Shaheen et al., 2015).

Local conservation status assessment

An average IVI was calculated for each species to determine representation of specie
in community. Following Hamayun shaheen et al. (2017) local status was determined
on the basis of average IVI values of species, average IVI was classified into five
conservation classes i.e. class abundant “A” = average IVI ≥2, class common “C” =
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average IVI<2 and ≥0.50, class fairly common “FC”= average IVI<0.50 and ≥ 0.3,
Class becoming rare “BR”= average IVI<0.3 and ≥0.1 and class rare “R”= average
IVI<0.1.

A B

C D

Figure 2: Line transect survey for phytosciology attributes collection, herbs qurdates (a), slop
measurement (b), shrubs qurdates (c) and trees quadrates (d).

RESULTS
A total of 20 localities were chosen, 452 quadrates were laid in 20 localities, and 489
plant species from 77 families were recorded in 18 sites with 18 communities. 9
(1.84%) of the 489 species were trees, 32 (6.54%) were shrubs, and 448 (91.61%)
were herbaceous, including 46 fern species (Table 1).
Recorded dominant families in study area with maximum number of species
were Asteraceae (n=46, 9%) followed by Poaceae (32, 7%), Ranunculaceae, (n=29,
6%), Lammiaceae (n=25, 5%), Rosaceae (n=22, 4%) and Fabaceae (21, 4%)
respectively. Other families including Dryopteridaceae (n=18, 4%), Apiaceae, (n=16,
3%), Bracicaceae (n=12, 2%), Scrophularaceae (n=12, 2%), Boraginaceae (n=12,
2%), Primulaceae (n=14, 3%), Gentianaceae (n=10, 2%) Caryophylaceae (n=9, 2%)
and Saxifragaceae (n= 8, 2%) also have significant contribution in floristic
composition of study area (Figure 3).

Phyto-sociological Attributes of Communities

A total of 18 communities were recorded, with 9 communities recorded at elevations
ranging from 2400m to 3500m and the remaining 9 communities recorded at
elevations ranging from 3500m to 4250m. For each species in each community,
phytosciological primary attributes such as density, frequency, and cover were
recorded, and these values were used to calculate IVI for each species in each
community.

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 International Journal of Forest Sciences (2024). 4(1):31-46

61 families with 1- Rosaceae, 22, 4% Fabaceae, 21, 4%

7 species, (n=181, Dryopteridaceae,
37%) 18, 4%

Asteraceae, 46, 9%

Ranunculaceae, 29,
6%

Polygonaceae, 22,
4%
Caryophylaceae, 9, Apiaceae, 16, 3%
2%
Gentianaceae, 10, Poaceae, 32, 7%
2%
Lammiaceae, 25,
Scrophularaceae, 5%
12, 2% Primulaceae, 14,
Saxifragaceae, 8, Boraginaceae,
3%
2% 12, 2% Bracicaceae, 12,
2%
Figure 3. Families’ contribution in floristic composition in study area
Key: class abundant “A” = average IVI ≥2, class common “C” = average IVI<2 and ≥0.50, class
fairly common “FC”= average IVI<0.50 and ≥ 0.3, Class becoming rare “BR”= average IVI<0.3 and
≥0.1 and class rare “R”= average IVI<0.1.

The communities were named after three dominant species in each

community (4.13) for structure and formation analysis of vegetation communities
importance value index (IVI) of all the recorded species in each community was
calculated. Juniperus communis had the highest IVI (4.99), followed by Abies
pindrow (4.40), Salix flabellaris (3.70), Viburnum grandiflorum (3.65), and Betula
utilis (3.65). (3.39). Piceae Wallichiana (2.68), Eremopoa altaica (2.46), Poa
nemoralis (2.45), Bistorta affinis (2.39), Rhododendron campanulatum (2.38), Juncus
membranaceus (2.34),Bistorta amplexicaulis (2.32), Geranium pratense (2.25), Rosa
webbiana (2.21) (Figure 4).
To evaluate the differences between different observed communities, the
Shannon Wiener index for overall diversity pattern of specific site and Simpson index
for species dominance pattern were calculated. Shannon diversity had a maximum
value (4.53) at the Kothalii site for community C10 (Rosa-Gaultheria-Aconitum), and

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a minimum value (3.07) at the Ghol basti top site for community C13 (Sibbaldia-
Bistorta-Lagotis). Simpson had the highest value (0.98) for community C10 (Rosa-
Gaultheria-Aconitum) at Ghol basti and the lowest value (0.81) for C2 (Abies-
Vibernum-Juniperus) at Saral site. Evenness and Menhinick richness indexes were
calculated from primary phytosciological data to determine the distribution pattern of
species and diversity in a community. The maximum value (0.92, 1.92) of richness
and evenness was recorded at site Jor Di Gali for C17 (Anaphalis-Rheum-Poa) and
site Kothalii for C10 (Rosa-Gaultheria-Aconitum), respectively, while the minimum
values (0.81, 0.99) were recorded at site Saral for community C2 (Abies-Vibernum-
Juniperus) and site Top of Alihol Baik for. A community maturity index was
calculated to indicate the climax and regular disturbance in a community. The highest
maturity index (82.9%) was recorded at site Ghamot village for community C1 (Pinus
- Indigofera-Vibernum), while the lowest value of maturity index was recorded at site
Samgam Mali for community C5 (Rosa-Abies-Betula) (Table 2).

Piceae Wallichiana

Eremopoa altaica

Poa nemoralis

Bistorta affinis
2 1.99 1.89 1.74
Rhododendron
2.02
campanulatum
2.09 Juncus membranaceus

2.21 4.99 Bistorta amplexicaulis

Geranium pratense
2.25 Dominant 4.4
species Rosa webbiana
2.32 (Highist IVI) 3.70
Viburnum nervosum
2.34 3.65
Galium boreale
3.39
2.38 Rubus fruticosus
2.39 Sewertia cuneata
2.45 2.68
2.46
Poa alpine

Bergenia stracheyi

Juniperus communis

Figure 4: Recorded average IVI of dominant plant species in communities in study area.

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A B C D
Figure 5: Plant diversity Aconitum heterophyllum (A), Betula utilus (B), Vibernum
grandiflorum (C), Bergenia ciliate (D) in study area during 2020-21

DISCUSSION
Current floristic baseline studies confirm the presence of 489 plant species from 77
families, including trees (n=9; 1.84%), shrubs (n=32, 6.54%), and herbs (n= 448,
91.61%). Asteraceae (n=46, 9%), Poaceae (n=32, 7%), and Ranunculaceae (n=29,
6%) were the dominant plant families with the most species, accounting for 37% of
the local flora of the study area. Neelum Valley is rich in natural resources and
represents phytogeographic features of the Sino Himalayan region (Qamar et al.,
2010). Moist temperate forest, dry temperate forest, subalpine scrub, and alpine
pastures are all found in the study area (Qamar et al., 2012) The area experiences long
and harsh winters from mid-December to the end of April, followed by a very short
mild summer from mid-June to September These physiographic and climatic features
provide a high level of ecosystem diversity, supporting a diverse range of vegetation
(Shaheen et al., 2017). Qamar et al. (2010) reported 7 species of gymnosperms, 404
species of angiosperms, 46 species of grasses, 33 species of ferns, and 14 species of
fungi in their ethno botanical study of wild medicinal plants of Neelum valley.
According to Mir et al., (2017) and Bano et al., (2013), the flora of Azad Jammu and
Kashmir's Western Himalayan High Lands consists of 517 plant species divided into
78 families and 239 genera. Plant families such as Roaceae, Asteraceae, Lamiaceae,
Poaceae, and Fabaceae are the most numerous and diverse in the western Himalayas.
In addition, Chawla et al. (2008) reported that the presence of herbaceous families in
the western Himalaya may be indicative of a high alpine environment. These indictor
families are adapted to a variety of stresses at high altitudes, and some species are
even restricted to the harsh conditions of the alpine zone in all regions of the world
(Scherrer et al., 2011; Gottfried et al., 2012). Because members of these families have
a broad ecological range and a distinct growth pattern, these families are abundant
(Klimes and Dolezal, 2010; Korner et al., 2011). Ullah et al. (2015) described 86
plant species from Azad Jammu and Kashmir's western Himalayan region, including
Cyperaceae, Poaceae, and Juncaceae. In total, 18 plant communities were studied in
the study area. Phytosociological characteristics revealed the dominance of a few
representative plant species based on their average importance value index, which
included Betula utilus, Salix flabellaris, Juncus membraneous, Abies pindrow, Pinus
wallichiana, Vibernum grandiflorum, and Rhododendron campanulatum were among
the species studied. Shaheen et al. (2017) discovered a similar species in Neelum

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Valley. These dominant species are structurally significant and serve as indicators of
Himalaya Highland vegetation (Cochaard and Dar, 2014; Shaheen et al., 2017).
A number of phytosociological studies on high mountains in various parts of
the world supported the current study by demonstrating that the highest importance
value percentages were recorded for similar taxa in the Himalayas of India, Pakistan,
and Nepal (Sharma et al., 2014; Negi et al., 2014; Shaheen et al., 2017; Mir et al.,
2017). Plant life on the high ground, according to Dolezal and Strutek (2002), showed
variations in vegetation structure, diversity, and life forms that are directly related to
ecological factors and human activities. The species composition of communities
recorded in similar environmental conditions was similar due to similar habitat
conditions in terms of nutrients and climate (Khan et al., 2016). According to Pauli et
al. (2007), the allocation pattern of plant species within the alpine and sub-alpine
regions is primarily influenced by climate or climate-influenced environmental
factors. The local conservation status of plant species was classified using the average
importance value index (IVI). According to Pujol et al. (2006) and Shaheen et al.
(2017), phytosociological attribute studies based on IVI values provide an excellent
understanding of plant species distribution and conservation status. Some trees
(Prunus cornuta, Acer cappdocium, and Acer caesiun), shrubs (Cassiope fastigiata,
Lonicera myrtillus, Juniperus excels), and herb species in the study area had low
average IVI values and are considered rare in the area. Shaheen et al. (2017) found a
similar species with a low IVI in western HimalayaThe decrease in plant diversity in
the study area could be attributed to habitat modification, encroachment, climate
change, deforestation, and over-exploitation of natural resources such as forager
collection and timber extraction. Human population growth is outpacing land holding,
posing serious threats to hunger and land ownership. As a result, humans attempt to
expand their range into adjacent undisturbed lands (IUCN, 2006). This study's
phytosciology results and proposed management prescriptions may assist the state
government in planning conservation strategies for the study area.

CONCLUSION
The current study aids in the better understanding of floral diversity in Western
Himalayan ecosystems, specifically species composition, community structure, and
diversity. The current study recorded a total of 658 plant species (457) in the study
area along elevation gradients with varying topographic features. Ghamot National
Park (study area) supports a large number of pants species, including globally
threatened and rare species, according to the study. The current study is the first to
look at the baseline flora of Ghamot National Park. This study will be informative
and valuable to state departments for effective conservation planning, ecological
research studies, and the development of a management plan for a national park.

Conflict of interest
On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of
interest.

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Ethics approval
No approval of research ethics committees was required to accomplish the goals of
this study because experimental work was conducted with an unregulated species.
Consent to participate: Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants
included in the study.

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Table 1: Check list of plant species reported in study area.

Sr. Families Species (scientific name) Vernacular name Habit Average IVI Local status
1 Acanthaceae Acer caesium Tarkanna T(Tree) 1.47 C
2 Betulaceae Betula utilis Bhurj pattra T 3.39 A
3 Hippocastanaceae Aesculus indica Bankhor T 0.24 FC
4 Rosaceae Prunus cornuta Chhery T 0.19 FC
Prunus padus -- T 0.43 FC
5 Pinaceae Piceae. wallichiana Kail, Bluepine T 2.68 A
Piceae smithiana Kachhal, spruce T 1.48 C
Abies pindrow Silver fir T 4.40 A
6 Taxaceae Taxus wallichiana Barmi, yew T 0.41 C
7 Caprifoliaceae Lonicera asperifolia Loorni S (Shrub) 0.66 C
08 Lonicera hispida Phoot S 0.28 C
Lonicera myrtillus Phoot S 0.50 FC
Lonicera webbiana Bhdy Katri S 2.21 A
09 Fabaceae Indigofera gerardiana Kainthi S 0.52 C
10 Rosaceae Potentilla nepalensis ---- S 0.07 BR
Rubus fruticosus Black berry S 2.00 A
Spiraea arcuata S 0.09 BR
11 Rutaceae Skimmia laureola Nera S 0.17 FC
12 Caprifoliaceae Viburnum cotinifolium S 0.55 C
Viburnum grandiflorum Guch S 3.65 A
Viburnum nervosum - S 2.09 A
13 Cupressaceae. Juniperus communis Bhentri S 4.99 A
14 Ephedraceae Ephedra gerardiana Bhentri S 0.52 FC
15 Berberidaceae Berberis aristata Sumblu S 0.24 FC
Berberis jaeschkeana Kala Sumbal S 1.12 C
Berberis aitchisonii Ahrendt Sumbl S 0.45 FC
16 Rosaceae Cotoneaster affinis Loonri S 0.21 FC
Cotoneaster bacillaris Loonri S 0.20 C
17 Ericaceae Gaultheria trichophylla Ferozi Boti S 0.57 FC
Rhododendron anthopogon Nichnee S 0.12 FC
Rhododendron arborium Smith Nichnee S 0.26 FC
Rhododendron campanulatum Nichnee S 2.38 A
18 Fabaceae Indigofera himalayensis Ali Kenthee S 0.32 FC
19 Hamamelidaceae Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana Peshor S 0.23 FC
20 Grossulariaceae Ribes himalense. S 0.33 BR
21 Rosaceae Rosa alpina L. Mali Phol S 0.67 C
Rosa webbiana S 2.21 A
Rubus fruticosus Jangli Gulab S 2.00 A
Rubus ulmifolius Gangli Meva S 0.11 FC
Rosa alpina Kun Chari S 0.67 C
22 Salicaceae Salix flabellaris S 3.70 A
23 Woodsiaceae Woodsia alpine. F(Fern) 0.31 FC
Athyrium filix-femina F 0.21 BR
Athyrium imbricatum. F 0.14 BR
Athyrium wallichianum F 0.10 BR
Gymnocarpium dryopteris F 0.15 BR
24 Dryopteridaceae Polystichum attenuatum F 0.35 BR
Polystichum bakerianum F 0.32 BR
Polystichum castaneum F 0.34 BR
Polystichum lachenense F 0.21 BR
Polystichum lonchitis F 0.12 BR
Polystichum prescottianum F 0.13 BR
Polystichum yunnanense Kakwa F 0.19 BR
Dryopteris barbigera F 0.39 FC
Dryopteris blanfordii F 0.48 FC
Dryopteris blanfordii F 0.28 BR
Dryopteris juxtaposita F 0.23 BR
Dryopteris ramosa F 0.18 BR
Dryopteris redactopinnata F 0.10 BR
Dryopteris stewartii , F 0.62 FC
Dryopteris wallichiana ( F 0.16 BR
Dryopteris filix-mas Langroo F 0.16 BR
Dryopteris marginata Langroo F 0.21 BR
Dryopteris thelypteris Langroo F 0.11 BR
25 Adiantaceae Adiantum capillus. Kakwa F 0.32 FC
Adiantum pedatum. Kakwa F 0.36 FC
Adiantum trichomanes Kakwa F 0.60 FC
Adiantum caudatum Kakwa F 0.20 BR
Adiantum venustum Kakwa F 0.41 FC
Cryptogramma brunoniana F 0.41 FC
26 Aspleniaceae Asplenium adiantum-nigrum F 0.28 BR
Asplenium fontanum F 0.14 FC
Asplenium septentrional F 0.10 BR
Asplenium trichomanes L. F 0.34 FC
27 Ophioglossaceae Botrychium matricariifoliu F 0.16 BR
28 Aspleniaceae Ceterach officinarum Willd. F 0.13 BR
29 Pteridaceae Cheilanthes persica F 0.23 BR
Cryptogramma stelleri F 0.11 BR
Onychium contiguum F 0.8 FC
Pellaea nitidula F 0.11 BR
Onychium japonicum F 0.19 BR
30 Cystopteridaceae Cystopteris dickieana F 0.14 BR
Cystopteris fragilis F 0.12 BR
Cystopteris montana F 0.21 BR
31 Osmundaceae Osmunda claytoniana F 0.18 BR
Osmunda regalis F 0.08 BR

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32 Nephrolepidaceae Nephrolepis cordifolia Fern 0.83 FC

33 Asteraceae Achillea millefolium Sultani Boti H(Herb) 0.12 BR
Ainsliaea aptera H 0.34 FC
Ainsliaea latifolia H 0.11 BR
Allardia tomentosa Decne. H 0.45 FC
Anaphalis boisseri Grgiadou Kali Boti H 1.32 FC
Anaphalis nepalensis Peli Boti H 0.78 FC
Anaphalis triplinervis Chiti Boti H 0.98 FC
Artemisia absinthium Jahoo H 0.34 FC
Artemisia annua Jahoo H 0.33 FC
Artemisia herba-alba Jahoo H 0.04 R
Artemisia japonica Thunb. Chita Jahoo H 0.46 FC
Artemisia maritima Sur Ganda H 0.65 FC
Carduus edelbergii H 0.89 FC
Aster alpinus H 0.34 FC
Carduus nutans. Kanda H 0.12 BR
Aster falconeri H 1.53 C
Aster himalaicus H 0.87 FC
Gnaphalium hypoleucum H 0.43 FC
Gnephalium affine H 0.22 BR
Jurania macrocephala Jugal Dhop H 0.05 R
Inula grandiflora Willd H 0.36 FC
Inula orientalis Lam. H 0.89 FC
Inula royleana H 0.04 BR
Inula hookeri H 0.87 FC
Inula spiraeifolia H 0.36 FC
Lentopodium himalayanum H 0.45 FC
Leontopodium leontopodinum H 0.48 FC
Leontopodium alpinum H 0.29 BR
Leontopodium jacotianum Beauverd H 0.45 FC
Ligularia amplexicaulia H 0.20 BR
Ligularia fischeri H 0.87 FC
Psychrogeton andryaloides H 1.02 C
Saussurea albescens Sch.Bip H 0.02 R
Saussurea alpina Kori Jari H 0.98 FC
Saussurea costus Kuth H 0.17 BR
Saussurea fastuosa Kuth H 0.02 R
Sassurea candicans Richh Kuth H 0.08 R
Senecio chrysanthemoides Bagoo H 0.36 FC
Senecio graciliflorus Bagoo H 2.48 A
Senecio jacquemontianus H 0.04 R
Solidago virga-aurea Muta Kesh H 0.32 FC
Sonchus asper H 0.45 FC
Sonchus oleraceus Kundiari H 0.98 FC
Tanacetum dolichophyllum Kitam Mali ki Jahoo H 0.89 FC
Taraxacum tibetanum Mali ki Hand H 0.78 FC
Taraxacum laevigatum Hand H 0.43 FC
Taraxacum obovatum Hand H 0.14 BR
Taraxecum officinale Hand H 0.05 R
Tussilago farfara. H 0.80 FC
34 Ranunculaceae Aconitum ferox Wallich ex Seringe Patrees H 0.05 R
Aconitum heterophyllum Patrees H 0.06 R
Aconitum laeve Patrees H 0.46 FC
Aconitum violaceum Mohri H 0.14 FC
Aconitun chyasmenthium Mohri H 0.33 FC
Actaea spicata Muniri H 0.99 FC
Anemone obtusiloba H 0.12 BR
Anemone rupicola Cambess. H 1.05 C
Anemone tetrasepala H 0.12 BR
Anemone rivularis H 0.78 FC
Aquilegia fragrans Benth. Phkli Jar H 0.33 FC
Aquilegia nivalis Phkli Jar H 0.87 FC
Aquilegia pubiflora Phkli Jar H 0.69 FC
Caltha alba Kakari Patra H 0.06 R
Delphinium denudatum H 0.34 FC
Delphinium roylei Munz. H 0.84 FC
Delphinium vestitum H 0.98 FC
Delphinium nordhagenii H 0.78 FC
Ranunculus laetus H 0.33 FC
Ranunculus stewartii H 0.21 BR
Ranunculus trichophyllus H 0.19 BR
Ranunculus arvensis H 0.04 R
35 Polygonaceae Aconogonum alpiunm Chekroo H 0.12 BR
Aconogonum molle Pan Chola H 0.02 R
Rumex hastatus Hulla H 2.53 A
Rumex nepalensis `` H 1.89 C
Rheum emodi Rewand H 0.99 FC
Bistorta affinis Masloonr H 2.39 A
Bistorta amplexicaulis Masloonr H 2.32 A
Bistorta vivipara Masloonr H 0.78 FC
Bistorta emodi Masloonr H 1.00 C
Fagopyrum esculentum Trumba H 0.58 FC
Oxyria digyna Khatkurla H 1.98 C
Persicaria capitata H 0.05 R
Polygonum cognatum Drobra H 0.18 BR
Polygonum paronychioides H 0.68 FC
Polygonum plebeium H 1.30 C

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Rheum australe Gol Chontal H 0.07 R

Rheum webbianum Chontal H 0.43 FC
Rumex acetosa Hulla H 0.87 FC
Rumex nepalensis Hulla H 1.23 C
Rumex patientia Hulla H 1.00 C
36 Apiaceae Aegopodium alpestre -- H 1.20 C
Angelica glauca Chora H 0.87 FC
Bupleurum candollei Kali Boti H 0.89 FC
Bupleurum falcatum Mithi Jiri H 0.75 FC
Bupleurum longicaule Mithi Jiri H 0.23 BR
Bupleurum marginatum Mithi Jiri H 0.47 FC
Chaerophyllum capnoides H 0.66 FC
Chaerophyllum reflexum H 0.04 R
Chaerophyllum villosum H 0.07 R
Heracleum candicans palhar H 0.45 FC
Pimpinella acuminata H 0.87 FC
Pleurospermum govanianum H 0.97 FC
Pleurospermum candollei H 0.34 FC
Pleurospermum brunonis H 0.25 BR
Cortia depressa Jari H 0.98 FC
Selinum tenuifolium H 0.34 FC
37 Rosaceae Agrimonia eupatoria H 1.23 C
Agrimonia pilosa H 0.89 BR
38 Poaceae Agrostis gigantea Gagoo H 1.32 C
Agrostis stolonifera Gagoo H 1.02 C
Agrostis vernalis Gha H 1.89 C
Agrostis vinealis Gha H 1.04 C
Alopecurus himalaicus Gha H 1.78 C
Apluda dahuricus Gha H 0.58 FC
Apluda mutica Gha H 0.99 FC
Chrysopogon gryllus Gha H 1.78 C
Dactylis glomerata Gha H 1.26 C
Eremopoa altaica Gha H 2.46 A
Festuca hartmannii Gha H 1.23 C
Festuca kashmiriana Gha H 1.05 C
Festuca lemanii Gha H 0.59 FC
Elymus dahuricus Gha H 0.47 FC
Helictotrichon virescens Gha H 0.26 BR
Mistegium nodosum Baroon H 0.44 FC
Pennisetum alopecuroides H 0.89 FC
Pennisetum flaccidum H 0.05 R
Pennisetum lanatum H 0.18 BR
Pennisetum annuum H 0.78 FC
Phleum alpinum H 0.69 FC
Phragmites australis. H 0.64 FC
Piptatherum gracile H 0.54 FC
Piptatherum laterale H 0.33 FC
Poa annua Gha H 0.45 FC
Poa attenuata Trin. H 0.45 FC
Poa gracilis Trin. H 0.36 FC
Poa nemoralis Gha H 2.45 A
Poa alpina Bozni Ghaa H 1.89 C
Poa angustifolia H 1.36 C
Poa bactriana H 0.46 FC
Poa pratensis H 1.36 C
39 Lammiaceae Ajuga bracteosa Rattiboti H 0.36 FC
Ajuga parviflora Jan E Adam H 0.78 FC
Calamintha umbrosa H 0.64 FC
Calanthe tricarinata H 0.98 FC
Clinopodium vulgare H 0.06 R
Clinopodium piperitum H 0.78 FC
Clinopodium umbrosum H 0.33 FC
Lamium album H 0.78 FC
Leucas cephalotes H 0.24 R
Leucas lanata H 0.34 FC
Mentha longifolia H 0.87 FC
Nepeta elliptica H 0.36 FC
Nepeta erecta H 0.48 FC
Nepeta laevigata H 0.45 FC
Nepeta nervosa. H 0.69 FC
Nepeta podostachys H 0.28 BR
Origanum vulgare Bubri Ban H 0.05 R
Phlomis bracteosa. H 0.98 FC
Phlomis cashmeriana H 1.36 C
Phlomis spectabilis H 0.74 FC
Prunella vulgaris Thula H 0.45 FC
Salvia hians H 0.78 FC
Salvia moorcroftiana H 0.66 FC
Salvia nubicola H 0.17 BR
Thymus linearis Podina H 0.09 R
40 Malvaceae Alcea rosea Gul E Khair H 0.48 FC
Malva parviflora Sonchal H 1.65 C
Malva neglecta Sonchal H 1.36 C
41 Rosaceae Alchemilla trollii H 1.00 C
Filipendula ulmaria Kasi Patra H 1.36 C
Fragaria nubicola Khan Merchan H 0.89 FC
Potentilla anserina H 0.46 FC

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Potentilla atrosanguinea Mali Chae H 0.89 FC

Potentilla cathaclinis Mali Chae H 0.45 FC
Potentilla curviseta Mali Chae H 0.36 FC
Potentilla monanthes Mali Chae H 0.87 FC
Potentilla nepalensis Mali Chae H 0.44 FC
Potentilla ochreata Mali Chae H 0.76 FC
Sibbaldia cuneata H 0.14 BR
Sibbaldia purpurea H 0.07 R
Sibbaldia tetrandra H 1.45 C
Sorbaria tomentosa H 1.3 C
Sorbus lanata H 0.46 FC
42 Amaryllidaceae Allium carolinianum Pyaz H 1.43 C
Allium humile Pyaz H 1.08 C
Allium tuberosum Mali Ka Pyaz H 1.63 C
Allium wallichii Mali Ka Payaz H 0.99 FC
43 Primulaceae Anagallis arvensis H 0.44 FC
Androsace longifolia H 0.99 FC
Androsace primuloides H 0.74 FC
Androsace rotundifolia H 0.63 FC
Androsace sempervivoides H 0.09 R
Anglica cyclocarpa Murchar H 0.78 FC
Cortusa brotheri H 0.36 FC
Primula denticulata Mameera H 0.79 FC
Primula edgeworthii Mameera H 0.99 FC
Primula eliptica Mameera H 0.78 FC
Primula macrophyla Mameera H 0.68 FC
Primula reptans Mameera H 0.64 FC
Primula rosea Mameera H 1.2 C
Primula stuartii Mameera H 0.65 FC
44 Bracicaceae Arabis amplexicaulis H 0.36 FC
Draba cachemirica. H 0.94 FC
Draba oreades H 0.93 FC
Rorippa montana H 0.90 FC
Thlaspi kotscbyanum Mali Da Sag H 0.39 FC
Thlaspi perfoliatum Mali Da Sag H 0.46 FC
45 Araceae Arisaema nepanthoides Sur Ganda H 0.33 FC
Arisaema flavum Schott Sur Ganda H 0.24 BR
Arisaema intermedium Sur Ganda H 0.43 FC
Arisaema tortosum Sur Ganda H 0.53 FC
46 Boraginaceae Arnebia benthamii Gaw Zaban H 1.20 C
Arnebia euchroma Gaw Zaban H 0.36 FC
Cynoglossum zeylanicum Mali Ka Cheroo H 1.23 C
Cynoglosum lanceolatum Mali Ka Cheroo H 0.56 FC
Lindelofia longiflora Lhndi H 0.45 FC
Lindelofia longiflora Lhndi H 0.98 FC
Lindelofia stylosa H 0.34 FC
Lindelofia macrostyla H 0.46 FC
Pseudomertensia echioides Cheero H 0.99 FC
Pseudomertensia moltkioides Cheero H 0.45 FC
Pseudomertensia moltkioides Lhndi H 0.58 FC
Pseudomertensia nemorosa Lhndi H 0.36 FC
47 Liliaceae Asparagus adscendens Chae H 0.46 FC
Fritillaria roylei Jangli Thom H 1.33 C
Lilium polyphyllum H 0.12 BR
Polygonatum multiflorum Kawar Gandal H 0.66 FC
Polygonatum verticilatum Kawar Gandal H 0.98 FC
48 Fabaceae Astragalus candolleanus Miswak H 1.23 C
Astragalus frigidus Miswak H 0.78 FC
Astragalus himalayanus Miswak H 0.78 FC
Astragalus subumbellatus Miswak H 0.76 FC
Astragalus grahamianus H 0.34 FC
Astragalus oplites H 0.69 FC
Astragalus rhizanthus H 0.78 FC
Hadysarum cacHirianum H 0.63 FC
Indegofera haterantha Kanthee H 0.48 FC
Indigofera himalayensis Kanthee H 0.36 FC
Lathyrus laevigatus Bun Phali H 0.74 FC
Lathyrus pratensis Bun Phali H 0.36 FC
Lotus corniculatus H 0.46 FC
Oxytropis lapponica H 0.96 FC
Trifolium pratense Shatal H 0.98 FC
Trifolium repens Shatal H 0.78 FC
Trigonella emodi Methi H 0.99 FC
Trigonella falcata Methi H 0.78 FC
Vicia narbonensis. Matri H 0.36 FC
49 Solanaceae Atropa acuminata Lubar H 0.36 FC
Atropa belladona Challa lubbar H 0.22 BR
Hyoscyamus niger H 0.98 FC
Solanum nigrum Kach mach H 1.20 C
Capsicum frutescens Mirchola H 1.00 C
50 Acanthaceae Barleria cristata H 1.48 C
51 Saxifragaceae Bergenia ciliata Bat Bhewa H 1.66 C
Bergenia purpurascens Bat Bhewa H 1.53 C
Bergenia stracheyi Bat Bhewa H 1.74 C
Saxifraga flagellaris H 0.94 FC
Saxifraga jacquemontiana H 0.46 FC
Saxifraga parnassifolia H 0.43 FC

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Saxifraga stenophylla H 0.63 FC

Saxifraga strigosa H 0.78 FC
52 Cyperaceae Blysmus compressus H 0.69 FC
Carex atrofusca H 0.41 FC
Carex buxbaumii H 0.89 FC
Carex cardiolepis H 0.02 R
Carex psychrophila H 0.97 FC
53 Campanulaceae Campanula aristata H 0.36 FC
Campanula cashmeriana H 0.48 FC
Campanula latifolia. H 0.48 FC
Codonopsis clematidea H 0.19 BR
Codonopsis ovata H 0.48 FC
Codonopsis viridis Phakli Boti H 0.48 FC
54 Bracicaceae Capsella bursa-pastoris H 0.32 FC
Cardamine hirsuta. H 0.19 BR
Cardamine loxostemonides H 0.43 FC
Cardamine macrophylla H 0.89 FC
55 Ericaceae Cassiope festigiata H 0.34 FC
56 Chenopodiaceae Chenopodium album Bathwa H 1.43 C
Chenopodium phylloglossum Bathwa H 1.36 C
Chenopodium foliosum. Bathwa H 1.45 C
57 Onagraceae Circaea alpina H 1.36 C
Epilobium angustifolium H 0.69 FC
Epilobium laxum H 0.14 BR
Epilobium parviflorum H 0.09 R
Epilobium royleanum. H 0.04 R
Epilobium wallichianum H 0.43 FC
Oenothera rosea H 0.96 FC
58 Papaveraceae Corydalis govaniana H 0.48 FC
Corydalis stewartii H 0.44 FC
Meconopsis aculeata H 0.12
59 Convolvulaceae Cuscuta europaea Neela Dhari H 0.99 FC
Cuscuta reflexa Neela Dhari H 0.89 FC
60 Orchidaceae Dactylorhiza hatagirea Nar Mada H 1.00 C
Habenaria pectinata H 0.36 FC
61 Caryophylaceae Dianthus anatolicus H 0.41 FC
62 Dioscoraceae Dioscorea deltoidea H 0.99 FC
63 Dipsacaceae Dipsacus inermis Opulha H 0.49 FC
Monira coulteriana H 0.35 FC
Morina longifolia Mali Kanda H 1.62 C
64 Lamiaceae Dracocephalum H 0.42 FC
65 Equesetaceae Equisetum H 0.78 FC
Equisetum debile H 0.87 FC
66 Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia hirta Dohdal H 1.36 C
Euphorbia wallichii Hervi H 1.63 C
Euphorbia stracheyi Dohdal H 1.11 C
67 Scrophularaceae Euphrasia himalayica H 0.04 R
Lagotis cashmeriana Kali Hind H 0.63 FC
Pedicularis bicornuta H 0.45 FC
Pedicularis oederi H 0.24 BR
Pedicularis pectinata H 0.65 FC
Pedicularis punctata H 0.06 R
Pedicularis pyramidata H 0.36 FC
Pedicularis scullyana H 0.03 R
Verbascum thapsus H 0.14 BR
Veronica himalensis H 0.89 FC
Veronica polita H 0.33 FC
Veronica alpina H 0.78 FC
72 Gentianaceae Exacum tetragonum H 0.41 FC
Gentiana carinata H 0.98 FC
Gentiana depressa H 0.34 FC
Gentiana kurroo H 0.14 BR
Gentiana phylocalyx H 0.14 BR
Gentianodes alii H 0.98 FC
Jaeschkea oligosperma H 0.75 FC
Sewertia cuneata Rech Endeh H 1.99 C
Swertia petiolata Rech Endeh H 1.78 C
Swertia speciosa Rech Endeh H 1.69 C
68 Rubiaceae Galium asperuloides Bhangri H 1.89 C
Galium boreale H 2.02 A
Galium verum H 0.95 FC
Galium aparine. H 0.36 FC
69 Geraniaceae Geranium himalayense Ratan Jot H 0.64 FC
Geranium nepalense Ratan Jot H 0.14 BR
Geranium pratense Ratan Jot H 2.25 A
Geranium wallichianum Ratan Jot H 1.36 C
70 Caryophylaceae Gypsophila cerastioides H 0.34 FC
Gypsophila oreades H 0.94 FC
71 Boraginaceae Hackelia uncinata H 0.23 BR
72 Hypericaceae Hypericum perfotatum Pelly Dudh Jari H 0.46 FC
73 Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis aurea H 0.98 FC
74 Balsaminaceae Impatiens brachycentra Buntil H 1.30 C
Impatiens edgeworthii Buntil H 1.98 C
Impatiens grandulifera Buntil H 1.56 C
Impatiens thomsonii Buntil H 1.00 C
Impatiens bicolor Buntil H 1.75 C
75 Iridaceae Iris decora Ghori Ghaa H 1.36 C

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Iris hookariana Ghori Ghaa H 1.99 C

Iris kashmiriana Ghori Ghaa H 2.36 A
Iris lactea Ghori Ghaa H 1.45 C
76 Juncaceae Juncus articulatus H 0.36 FC
Juncus himalensis H 0.46 FC
Juncus membranaceus H 2.34 A
Juncus thomsonii H 0.64 FC
77 Ranunculaceae Lavatera kashmiriana Thandi Booti H 0.47 FC
Ranunculus hirtellus H 0.94 FC
Ranunculus hirtellus H 0.47 FC
Ranunculus stewartii H 0.36 FC
Ranunculus trichophyllus H 0.64 FC
Ranunculus arvensis H 0.78 FC
Trolius acaulis H 0.36 FC
78 Caryophylaceae Minuartia kashmirica H 0.48 FC
Minuartia uniflora Bat Karam H 0.36 FC
Silene edgeworthii Murkanar H 0.87 FC
Silene gonosperma Murkanar H 0.14 BR
Silene viscosa Murkanar H 0.99 FC
Silene vulgaris Murkanar H 0.88 FC
Stellaria decumbens H 0.34 FC
Stellaria media H 0.96 FC
Stellaria nemorum H 0.34 FC
79 Tamaricaceae Myricaria elegans H 1.25 C
80 Orobanchaceae Orobanche alba H 0.36 FC
81 Oxalidaceae Oxalis corniculata Khatla H 0.04 R
82 Parnassiaceae Parnassia nubicola H 0.14 BR
83 Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata H 0.06 R
Plantago major H 1.36 C
Plantago alpina H 1.00 C
Plantago depressa H 1.04 C
84 Polemoniaceae Polemonium caeruleum H 0.78 FC
85 Polygalaceae Polygala sibirica H 1.36 FC
Polygonum alpinum H 3.65 A
Polygonum amplexicaule H 2.36 A
Polygonum aviculare H 0.15 BR
Rheum tibeticum H 1.87 C
86 Crassulaceae Rhodiola heterodonta Bug Masti H 1.33 C
Rhodiola himalayansis Sabr Jari H 1.36 C
Rhodiola fastigiata Bug Masti H 0.35 FC
Rosularia adenotricha H 0.64 FC
Sedum ewersii H 0.34 FC
Sedum oreades H 0.46 FC
Sedum trullipetalum H 0.64 FC
87 Zingiberaceae Roscoea alpina H 1.47 C
88 Podophyllaceae Sinopodophyllum Kakari H 1.89 C
89 Urticaceae Urtica hyperborea Kerii H 1.36 C
90 Valerianaceae Valeriana jatamansi Mushki Baala H 1.03 C
Valeriana pyrolifolia Manj Jari H 0.36 FC
Valeriana wallichii. H 0.04 R
91 Apocynaceae Vincetoxicum arnottianum Phal Wala Poda H 0.36 FC
92 Violaceae Viola biflora Banfsha H 1.36 C
Viola canescens. Banfsha H 0.88 FC
Viola kashmiriana Banfsha H 0.74 FC
Viola pyrolifolia H 0.36 FC

Table 2: Recorded communities, localities, elevation, number of species their diversity indices
in study area during 2020-21.
Sr# Communities localities Alt. Coordinates No of Shannon Simpson Evenness Richness Maturity
(m) Sp. index
N E

1 C1-Pinus - Indigofera-Vibernum Ghamot Village 2482 34°56'30.55 74°13'01.87 72 4.14 0.981 0.88 1.52 82.9

2 C2 -Abies-Vibernum-Juniperus- Saral 2535 34°56'28.98 74°12'54.01 75 4.11 0.977 0.81 1.60 76.0
3 C3-Abies-Acer- Berberis Alif Rakh 2722 34°57'06.64 74°13'17.57 75 4.23 0.984 0.91 1.62 68.9
4 C4-Pinus-Vibrnum-Lonicera Kundi Village 2592 34°57'31.95 74°13'44.75 76 4.25 0.984 0.92 1.73 60.5
5 C5-Rosa-Abies-Betula Samgam Malii 2944 34°54'49.82 74°12'13.36 62 4.05 0.981 0.93 1.61 56.7
6 C6-Salix-Myricaria-Viburnum Near Alihol Bhaik 3017 34°59'50.29 74°14'11.19 61 4.04 0.981 0.93 1.63 57.6
7 C7-Robus-Polygonum-Artemisia Kamakhodari Nar 3377 35°00'11.83 74°13'01.22 93 4.42 0.986 0.89 1.87 57.3
8 C8-Betula-Juniperus-Lonicera- Ratta Chang 3615 34°58'34.96 74°13'14.24 54 3.90 0.978 0.91 1.47 60.6
9 C9-Juniperus-Salix-Aconitum Saral Nar 3219 35°00'00.91 74°08'59.71 74 4.21 0.983 0.91 1.73 64.2
10 C10-Rosa-Gaultheria-Aconitum Kothalii 3487 35°01'24.72 74°08'00.92 99 4.53 0.989 0.94 1.92 62.6
11 C11-Juniperus-Rhododendron-Sibbaldia Habib Bhaik Top 3871 34°11'16.99 74°13'14.24 60 3.92 0.974 0.84 1.43 63.1
12 C12-Bistorta-Aconitum-Pedicularis Saral Bhaik 3499 35°01'29.00 74°07'47.48 71 4.16 0.983 0.90 1.64 60.8
13 C13-Sibbaldia-Bistorta-Lagotis Ghol Basti Top 3998 34°59'35.52 74°04'38.24 23 3.07 0.951 0.94 0.86 75.1
14 C14-Bistorta-Anaphalis -Potentilla Kamakhodri lake 4060 35°04'21.47 74°10'40.88 55 3.95 0.979 0.94 1.29 69.8
15 C15-Poa-Anaphalis-Geum Saral Lake 4212 34°03'05.74 74°08'55.70 31 3.37 0.963 0.94 0.90 66.0
16 C16-Rhododendron-Bistorta-Corydalis Rata Chang Top 4062 34°58'10.39 74°12'08.13 63 4.08 0.982 0.94 1.38 62.7
17 C17-Anaphalis-Rheum-Poa Jor Di Gali 4174 34°59'21.20 74°03'43.86 49 3.86 0.978 0.97 1.07 71.1
18 C18-Allium-Cassiope-Bistorta Top of Alihol 3972 35°00'27.65 74°14'26.40 41 3.68 0.974 0.97 0.99 79.8
Bhaik

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