VEGETATION COMPOSITION AND SPECIES DIVERSITY AMONG DIFFERENT PLANT COMMUNITIES IN LOWER HAMALAYAN... more VEGETATION COMPOSITION AND SPECIES DIVERSITY AMONG DIFFERENT PLANT COMMUNITIES IN LOWER HAMALAYAN REGION, KAKUL HILLS, ABBOTTABAD, KPK
Lower Himalayan conifers forests are the most diverse ecological locations on the globe. Six ecol... more Lower Himalayan conifers forests are the most diverse ecological locations on the globe. Six ecological parameters were investigated to study structural diversity in Ayubia national park, 210 stands at six different locations were selected and Quadrates method was used for sampling of vegetation. The size of the quadrates was 10×2m for tree, 5×2m for shrubs and 0.5×0.5 for herbs. There were six plants communities Picea-Vibernum-Plantago, Pinus-Rubus-Polygonum, Cedrus-Skimmia-Valeriana, Pinus-Rubus-Gerenium, Abies-Vibernum-Plantago and Cedrus-Vibernum-Trifolium were identified on the basis of an importance value index which ranges from 05.13 to 17.86. The average value of species richness was 0.846667; Simpson's and Shannon–Wiener's diversity values were 9.385 and the degree of maturity index was 65.37833, the unpalatable species dominated the local flora, indicating the heavy grazing pressure in the area. Development and implementation of regional conservation strategies are recommended to protect the threatened lower Himalayan biodiversity. Degree of aggregation in forests of Ayubia national park was recorded in relation to environmental variable and underlying anthropogenic influence. Aggregated species were dominant in the area with 51.85 value followed by the intermediate species with share of 33.33 and aggregate species with 13.58 share. Similarly regeneration capacity of the forest shows that Pinus wallichiana, Cedrus deodara, Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana were the regenerating species in the investigated area. The remaining Quercus dilatata, Cornus macrophylla, Taxus wallichiana, Prunus padus and Aesculus indica were not regenerating due to deforestation and overgrazing. These species are in endangered condition.
The study was carried out in Nathia Gali and was aimed to document the traditional folk knowledge... more The study was carried out in Nathia Gali and was aimed to document the traditional folk knowledge of local people about the use of medicinal plant as ethno medicines. The study area is located in the Hazara Division in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Pakistan. The study was carried out during 2014 to 2015. Field study was conducted and information was recorded by adopting different types of questionnaires and general observation. The plant species were collected identified, preserved and voucher specimens deposited in Herbarium, Department of Botany Post Graduate College no.1 Abbottabad .Majority of plant possess multiple uses. During the study it was observed that 39 plants species belonging to 30 families and are playing very important role in the life of common man. The Rosaceae, Moraceae and Pinaceae was most represented families having (3) species each, followed by Brassicaceae, Labiatae and Polygonaceae having (2) species each, then followed by Apiaceae, Araliaceae, Berberidaceae, Buxaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Cannabinaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Dryopteridaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Hippocastanaceae, Juglandaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Meliaceae, Plantagoniaceae, Poaceae, Punicaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rutaceae, Saxifragaceae, Sapindaceae, Solanaceae and Utricaceae (1) specie each. The leaves (33%) was the most commonly used plant part, followed by whole plant (22%),then followed by fruit( 27%), then Stem(7%), then Bark (7%), then root (2%), and then Latex (2%).
The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 1290m to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.
The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including t... more The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach (Mandroach, Mandroch Darra, Barri Bahk, Lower Danna, Danna, Upper Danna), Neelor (Neelor, Battanga, Pkheer Bandi, Pejjo, Lower Ballolia, Upper Ballolia), Kakul (Malach Lower, Malach Upper, Kakul Reserve Forests Cathment, Mathrikka, Mathrikka Top, Jabbra, Pallu Ziarat), Qalandarabad (Qalandarabad, Bandi Toondan Cathment, Mera Bunn, Loonrr Pattian), Kala pani (Gali Bannian, Upper Gali Bannian, Chatrri, Lower Kala Pani, Upper Kala Pani, Reserve Forests Cathment, Lower Thandiani, Upper Thandiani Catchment), Larri (Larri Track, Larri, Sawan Gali, Larri Top), Riala (Riala, Riala Cathment, Upper Riala, Terarri, Terarri Cathment, Darral, Makali, Ladrri, Parringa, Sattu Top) and Sikher (Mera Rehmat Khan Cathment, Mera Rehmat Khan Top, Lower Nammal, Upper Nammal, Sikher), was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the quadrat method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area, where Rosaceae was the largest family with 20 species. This was followed by Asteraceae with 14, Ranunculaceae with 12 and Papilionaceae with 7 species. Species diversity was quite high, which seemed to be highly influenced by topographic characteristics like altitude, slope and aspect. Many areas were invaded by exotic species like Dodonaea viscosa, which was the most dominant shrub at lower altitudes. Punica granatum also dominated lower altitudes along with D. viscosa. Themeda anathera dominated higher altitudes along with Polygonum amplexicaule, Bergenia ciliata and Impetiens sps, whereas Cynodon dactylon and Rumex nepalensis were dominant at lower altitudes along with verbescum thapsis. Among conifers, Pinus roxburghii was recorded from moderate heights, while P. wallichiana, Abies pindrow and Cedrus deodara from the highest peaks. Conservation status of many economically important species was overall very poor, which was ascribed to anthropogenic activities and habitat destruction.
The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 1290m to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. Thandiani Sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach (Mandroach, Mandroch Darra, Barri Bahk, Lower Danna, Danna, Upper Danna), Neelor (Neelor, Battanga, Pkheer Bandi, Pejjo, Lower Ballolia, Upper Ballolia), Kakul (Malach Lower, Malach Upper, Kakul Reserve Forests Cathment, Mathrikka, Mathrikka Top, Jabbra, Pallu Ziarat), Qalandarabad (Qalandarabad, Bandi Toondan Cathment, Mera Bunn, Loonrr Pattian), Kala pani (Gali Bannian, Upper Gali Bannian, Chatrri, Lower Kala Pani, Upper Kala Pani, Reserve Forests Cathment, Lower Thandiani, Upper Thandiani Catchment), Larri (Larri Track, Larri, Sawan Gali, Larri Top), Riala (Riala, Riala Cathment, Upper Riala, Terarri, Terarri Cathment, Darral, Makali, Ladrri, Parringa, Sattu Top) and Sikher (Mera Rehmat Khan Cathment, Mera Rehmat Khan Top, Lower Nammal, Upper Nammal, Sikher), was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area. Species diversity and its components values were high in the tree layer (Pinus communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.
Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The For... more Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The Forest is situated in the Gallies Forest Division of Hazara Forest Circle and can be traced in between 3329 to 3421 N and 7255 to 7329 E. The area has preserved typical features Sino-Japanese Region with relatively intact natural flora and geomorphological characteristics. The Forest is located on the range of hills running south to eastern proximity of Abbottabad city towards River Kunhar in the north. The altitudinal range of area is 1191meter to 2626 meters. Highest peaks of the Forest are known as Sikher and Sattu peaks.. Fifteen plant communities recognized during this studySoil profile of the area shows that it was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. It was recorded that variation in altitude and soil composition play significant role in establishing plant communities. Soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants disturb the plant communities. As regard usage; 90 plants species were used for various purposes like fuel wood
The moist temperate vegetation of Thandiani forests District Abbottabad were studied for phytosoc... more The moist temperate vegetation of Thandiani forests District Abbottabad were studied for phytosociological analysis. Fifteen plant communities were recorded in the study area. Sum of 90 plant species including 44 herbs and 23 each shrub and trees along with their ethnobotanical uses were studied. The soil of the study area was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. Variation in altitude and soil composition had played significant role in the establishment of plant communities. The lower altitudinal zone shows heavy deforestation, soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants disturb the plant communities. The higher altitudinal zones are reserve and protected by the government.
The life form and leaf size spectra of plant communities of Thandiani Forests, District Abbottaba... more The life form and leaf size spectra of plant communities of Thandiani Forests, District Abbottabad were studied during 2013 consisting of 90 plant species belonging to 50 families. The biological spectra showed that Hemicryptophytes (24 spp., 26.67%) were dominant followed by Therophytes (23 spp., 25.55%) and Megaphanerophytes (23 spp., 25.55%). Hemicryptophytes are the indicators of temperate vegetation while Therophytes are the indicators of disturbed vegetation. At the low altitude, Megaphanerophytes were dominant which can be clearly seen as dominant by trees. Most of the plants in the investigated area were Hemicryptophytes. Leaf spectra tell us about the plants association in the community. In the investigated area Microphylls (42 spp.,46.66% were dominant followed by Nanophylls (23 spp., 25.55%) were co-dominant. Microphylls normally are the character of temperate zone, as the area is situated on an altitude of 1191 meters to 2626 meters Microphylls were found as dominant in upper ridges while in the lower ridges, Nanophylls were dominant. Soil moisture is the character with per meters Microphylls species.
An Ethno medicinal survey of Kakul Hills, Abbottabad, Pakistan was conducted to record the plants... more An Ethno medicinal survey of Kakul Hills, Abbottabad, Pakistan was conducted to record the plants and their medicinal uses. It was found that 90 different plant species are used for medicinal, timber, fuel wood, fodder, ornamental, agricultural tools, Thatching, fencing, naming (folk lore) and fruit yielding purposes. The botanical and vernacular names, family, plant part use and traditional uses are given for each plant. The present study aims to draw the attention to phytochemists and pharmacologists to the need of further critical study. If the efficiency of each plant is scientifically established then these plants drugs can be recommended to the rural peoples who can frequently employ these potential drugs due to their availability.
Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The For... more Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The Forest is situated in the Gallies Forest Division of Hazara Forest Circle and can be traced in between 3329 to 3421 N and 7255 to 7329 E. The area has preserved typical features Sino-Japanese Region with relatively intact natural flora and geomorphological characteristics. The Forest is located on the range of hills running south to eastern proximity of Abbottabad city towards River Kunhar in the north. The altitudinal range of area is 1191meter to 2626 meters. Highest peaks of the Forest are known as Sikher and Sattu peaks.. Fifteen plant communities recognized during this studySoil profile of the area shows that it was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. It was recorded that variation in altitude and soil composition play significant role in establishing plant communities. Soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants...
VEGETATION COMPOSITION AND SPECIES DIVERSITY AMONG DIFFERENT PLANT COMMUNITIES IN LOWER HAMALAYAN... more VEGETATION COMPOSITION AND SPECIES DIVERSITY AMONG DIFFERENT PLANT COMMUNITIES IN LOWER HAMALAYAN REGION, KAKUL HILLS, ABBOTTABAD, KPK
Lower Himalayan conifers forests are the most diverse ecological locations on the globe. Six ecol... more Lower Himalayan conifers forests are the most diverse ecological locations on the globe. Six ecological parameters were investigated to study structural diversity in Ayubia national park, 210 stands at six different locations were selected and Quadrates method was used for sampling of vegetation. The size of the quadrates was 10×2m for tree, 5×2m for shrubs and 0.5×0.5 for herbs. There were six plants communities Picea-Vibernum-Plantago, Pinus-Rubus-Polygonum, Cedrus-Skimmia-Valeriana, Pinus-Rubus-Gerenium, Abies-Vibernum-Plantago and Cedrus-Vibernum-Trifolium were identified on the basis of an importance value index which ranges from 05.13 to 17.86. The average value of species richness was 0.846667; Simpson's and Shannon–Wiener's diversity values were 9.385 and the degree of maturity index was 65.37833, the unpalatable species dominated the local flora, indicating the heavy grazing pressure in the area. Development and implementation of regional conservation strategies are recommended to protect the threatened lower Himalayan biodiversity. Degree of aggregation in forests of Ayubia national park was recorded in relation to environmental variable and underlying anthropogenic influence. Aggregated species were dominant in the area with 51.85 value followed by the intermediate species with share of 33.33 and aggregate species with 13.58 share. Similarly regeneration capacity of the forest shows that Pinus wallichiana, Cedrus deodara, Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana were the regenerating species in the investigated area. The remaining Quercus dilatata, Cornus macrophylla, Taxus wallichiana, Prunus padus and Aesculus indica were not regenerating due to deforestation and overgrazing. These species are in endangered condition.
The study was carried out in Nathia Gali and was aimed to document the traditional folk knowledge... more The study was carried out in Nathia Gali and was aimed to document the traditional folk knowledge of local people about the use of medicinal plant as ethno medicines. The study area is located in the Hazara Division in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Pakistan. The study was carried out during 2014 to 2015. Field study was conducted and information was recorded by adopting different types of questionnaires and general observation. The plant species were collected identified, preserved and voucher specimens deposited in Herbarium, Department of Botany Post Graduate College no.1 Abbottabad .Majority of plant possess multiple uses. During the study it was observed that 39 plants species belonging to 30 families and are playing very important role in the life of common man. The Rosaceae, Moraceae and Pinaceae was most represented families having (3) species each, followed by Brassicaceae, Labiatae and Polygonaceae having (2) species each, then followed by Apiaceae, Araliaceae, Berberidaceae, Buxaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Cannabinaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Dryopteridaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Hippocastanaceae, Juglandaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Meliaceae, Plantagoniaceae, Poaceae, Punicaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rutaceae, Saxifragaceae, Sapindaceae, Solanaceae and Utricaceae (1) specie each. The leaves (33%) was the most commonly used plant part, followed by whole plant (22%),then followed by fruit( 27%), then Stem(7%), then Bark (7%), then root (2%), and then Latex (2%).
The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 1290m to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.
The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including t... more The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach (Mandroach, Mandroch Darra, Barri Bahk, Lower Danna, Danna, Upper Danna), Neelor (Neelor, Battanga, Pkheer Bandi, Pejjo, Lower Ballolia, Upper Ballolia), Kakul (Malach Lower, Malach Upper, Kakul Reserve Forests Cathment, Mathrikka, Mathrikka Top, Jabbra, Pallu Ziarat), Qalandarabad (Qalandarabad, Bandi Toondan Cathment, Mera Bunn, Loonrr Pattian), Kala pani (Gali Bannian, Upper Gali Bannian, Chatrri, Lower Kala Pani, Upper Kala Pani, Reserve Forests Cathment, Lower Thandiani, Upper Thandiani Catchment), Larri (Larri Track, Larri, Sawan Gali, Larri Top), Riala (Riala, Riala Cathment, Upper Riala, Terarri, Terarri Cathment, Darral, Makali, Ladrri, Parringa, Sattu Top) and Sikher (Mera Rehmat Khan Cathment, Mera Rehmat Khan Top, Lower Nammal, Upper Nammal, Sikher), was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the quadrat method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area, where Rosaceae was the largest family with 20 species. This was followed by Asteraceae with 14, Ranunculaceae with 12 and Papilionaceae with 7 species. Species diversity was quite high, which seemed to be highly influenced by topographic characteristics like altitude, slope and aspect. Many areas were invaded by exotic species like Dodonaea viscosa, which was the most dominant shrub at lower altitudes. Punica granatum also dominated lower altitudes along with D. viscosa. Themeda anathera dominated higher altitudes along with Polygonum amplexicaule, Bergenia ciliata and Impetiens sps, whereas Cynodon dactylon and Rumex nepalensis were dominant at lower altitudes along with verbescum thapsis. Among conifers, Pinus roxburghii was recorded from moderate heights, while P. wallichiana, Abies pindrow and Cedrus deodara from the highest peaks. Conservation status of many economically important species was overall very poor, which was ascribed to anthropogenic activities and habitat destruction.
The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 1290m to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. Thandiani Sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach (Mandroach, Mandroch Darra, Barri Bahk, Lower Danna, Danna, Upper Danna), Neelor (Neelor, Battanga, Pkheer Bandi, Pejjo, Lower Ballolia, Upper Ballolia), Kakul (Malach Lower, Malach Upper, Kakul Reserve Forests Cathment, Mathrikka, Mathrikka Top, Jabbra, Pallu Ziarat), Qalandarabad (Qalandarabad, Bandi Toondan Cathment, Mera Bunn, Loonrr Pattian), Kala pani (Gali Bannian, Upper Gali Bannian, Chatrri, Lower Kala Pani, Upper Kala Pani, Reserve Forests Cathment, Lower Thandiani, Upper Thandiani Catchment), Larri (Larri Track, Larri, Sawan Gali, Larri Top), Riala (Riala, Riala Cathment, Upper Riala, Terarri, Terarri Cathment, Darral, Makali, Ladrri, Parringa, Sattu Top) and Sikher (Mera Rehmat Khan Cathment, Mera Rehmat Khan Top, Lower Nammal, Upper Nammal, Sikher), was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area. Species diversity and its components values were high in the tree layer (Pinus communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.
Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The For... more Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The Forest is situated in the Gallies Forest Division of Hazara Forest Circle and can be traced in between 3329 to 3421 N and 7255 to 7329 E. The area has preserved typical features Sino-Japanese Region with relatively intact natural flora and geomorphological characteristics. The Forest is located on the range of hills running south to eastern proximity of Abbottabad city towards River Kunhar in the north. The altitudinal range of area is 1191meter to 2626 meters. Highest peaks of the Forest are known as Sikher and Sattu peaks.. Fifteen plant communities recognized during this studySoil profile of the area shows that it was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. It was recorded that variation in altitude and soil composition play significant role in establishing plant communities. Soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants disturb the plant communities. As regard usage; 90 plants species were used for various purposes like fuel wood
The moist temperate vegetation of Thandiani forests District Abbottabad were studied for phytosoc... more The moist temperate vegetation of Thandiani forests District Abbottabad were studied for phytosociological analysis. Fifteen plant communities were recorded in the study area. Sum of 90 plant species including 44 herbs and 23 each shrub and trees along with their ethnobotanical uses were studied. The soil of the study area was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. Variation in altitude and soil composition had played significant role in the establishment of plant communities. The lower altitudinal zone shows heavy deforestation, soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants disturb the plant communities. The higher altitudinal zones are reserve and protected by the government.
The life form and leaf size spectra of plant communities of Thandiani Forests, District Abbottaba... more The life form and leaf size spectra of plant communities of Thandiani Forests, District Abbottabad were studied during 2013 consisting of 90 plant species belonging to 50 families. The biological spectra showed that Hemicryptophytes (24 spp., 26.67%) were dominant followed by Therophytes (23 spp., 25.55%) and Megaphanerophytes (23 spp., 25.55%). Hemicryptophytes are the indicators of temperate vegetation while Therophytes are the indicators of disturbed vegetation. At the low altitude, Megaphanerophytes were dominant which can be clearly seen as dominant by trees. Most of the plants in the investigated area were Hemicryptophytes. Leaf spectra tell us about the plants association in the community. In the investigated area Microphylls (42 spp.,46.66% were dominant followed by Nanophylls (23 spp., 25.55%) were co-dominant. Microphylls normally are the character of temperate zone, as the area is situated on an altitude of 1191 meters to 2626 meters Microphylls were found as dominant in upper ridges while in the lower ridges, Nanophylls were dominant. Soil moisture is the character with per meters Microphylls species.
An Ethno medicinal survey of Kakul Hills, Abbottabad, Pakistan was conducted to record the plants... more An Ethno medicinal survey of Kakul Hills, Abbottabad, Pakistan was conducted to record the plants and their medicinal uses. It was found that 90 different plant species are used for medicinal, timber, fuel wood, fodder, ornamental, agricultural tools, Thatching, fencing, naming (folk lore) and fruit yielding purposes. The botanical and vernacular names, family, plant part use and traditional uses are given for each plant. The present study aims to draw the attention to phytochemists and pharmacologists to the need of further critical study. If the efficiency of each plant is scientifically established then these plants drugs can be recommended to the rural peoples who can frequently employ these potential drugs due to their availability.
Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The For... more Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The Forest is situated in the Gallies Forest Division of Hazara Forest Circle and can be traced in between 3329 to 3421 N and 7255 to 7329 E. The area has preserved typical features Sino-Japanese Region with relatively intact natural flora and geomorphological characteristics. The Forest is located on the range of hills running south to eastern proximity of Abbottabad city towards River Kunhar in the north. The altitudinal range of area is 1191meter to 2626 meters. Highest peaks of the Forest are known as Sikher and Sattu peaks.. Fifteen plant communities recognized during this studySoil profile of the area shows that it was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. It was recorded that variation in altitude and soil composition play significant role in establishing plant communities. Soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants...
The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 1290m to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.
The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including t... more The floral diversity of the Himalayan foothill region, Thandiani Sub Forests division including the forests of Mandroach (Mandroach, Mandroch Darra, Barri Bahk, Lower Danna, Danna, Upper Danna), Neelor (Neelor, Battanga, Pkheer Bandi, Pejjo, Lower Ballolia, Upper Ballolia), Kakul (Malach Lower, Malach Upper, Kakul Reserve Forests Cathment, Mathrikka, Mathrikka Top, Jabbra, Pallu Ziarat), Qalandarabad (Qalandarabad, Bandi Toondan Cathment, Mera Bunn, Loonrr Pattian), Kala pani (Gali Bannian, Upper Gali Bannian, Chatrri, Lower Kala Pani, Upper Kala Pani, Reserve Forests Cathment, Lower Thandiani, Upper Thandiani Catchment), Larri (Larri Track, Larri, Sawan Gali, Larri Top), Riala (Riala, Riala Cathment, Upper Riala, Terarri, Terarri Cathment, Darral, Makali, Ladrri, Parringa, Sattu Top) and Sikher (Mera Rehmat Khan Cathment, Mera Rehmat Khan Top, Lower Nammal, Upper Nammal, Sikher), was explored to assess the vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by the quadrat method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were recorded from the area, where Rosaceae was the largest family with 20 species. This was followed by Asteraceae with 14, Ranunculaceae with 12 and Papilionaceae with 7 species. Species diversity was quite high, which seemed to be highly influenced by topographic characteristics like altitude, slope and aspect. Many areas were invaded by exotic species like Dodonaea viscosa, which was the most dominant shrub at lower altitudes. Punica granatum also dominated lower altitudes along with D. viscosa. Themeda anathera dominated higher altitudes along with Polygonum amplexicaule, Bergenia ciliata and Impetiens sps, whereas Cynodon dactylon and Rumex nepalensis were dominant at lower altitudes along with verbescum thapsis. Among conifers, Pinus roxburghii was recorded from moderate heights, while P. wallichiana, Abies pindrow and Cedrus deodara from the highest peaks. Conservation status of many economically important species was overall very poor, which was ascribed to anthropogenic activities and habitat destruction.
The study was carried out in Nathiagali during 2014 to 2015 and was aimed to document the traditi... more The study was carried out in Nathiagali during 2014 to 2015 and was aimed to document the traditional folk knowledge of local people about the use of medicinal plant as ethnomedicines.the study area is located in the Hazara Division in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Pakistan. Field study was conducted and information was recorded by adopting different types of questionnaires and general observation. The plant species were collected identified, preserved and voucher specimens deposited in Herbarium, Department of Botany Post Graduate College no.1 Abbottabad .Majority of plant possess multiple uses. During the study it was observed that 39 plants species belonging to 30 families and are playing very important role in the life of common man. The Rosaceae, Moraceae and Pinaceae was most represented families having (3) species each, followed by Brassicaceae, Labiatae and Polygonaceae having (2) species each, then followed by Apiaceae, Araliaceae, Berberidaceae, Buxaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Cannabinaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Dryopteridaceae, Ebenaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Hippocastanaceae, Juglandaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Meliaceae, Plantagoniaceae, Poaceae, Punicaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rutaceae, Saxifragaceae, Sapindaceae, Solanaceae and Utricaceae (1) specie each. The leaves (33%) was the most commonly used plant part, followed by whole plant (22%), fruit ( 27%), Stem(7%), Bark (7%) and root (2%) respectively. The study area is a fragile ecosystem which is rapidly degrading due to excessive grazing and over exploitation by the local communities for their customary needs. In order to protect the plummet floral resources and their classical uses, concrete conservation measures i.e., education and perceptions, integration of traditional knowledge with modern healthcare and ex situ conservation of threatened species, supporting local livelihoods and rural economy is assured.
Himalayas are the world’s largest mountain ranges situated in South Asia separating the plains of... more Himalayas are the world’s largest mountain ranges situated in South Asia separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. Himalayas include more than hundred mountains exceeding 7,200 metres. The Himalayan region of Pakistan is recognized as the wellknown Western Himalayan Province famous for its unique endemic and threatened biodiversity.
Vegetation is the outcome of the habitat and environmental conditions. Information on vegetation ... more Vegetation is the outcome of the habitat and environmental conditions. Information on vegetation helps in biological conservation and management purposes, as an input to environmental impact assessment and management practices. It provides basis for prediction of possible future changes (Kent and Coker, 1995). Quantitative Ecological studies investigate the existing structure, species diversity, soil plant relationship; generate data on seasonal and temporal variation in available nutrients. There has always been a need to analyze and interpret the plant communities on different exposure and to gather first hand information of the vegetation of this floristically rich area. The term conservation uses both in active and passive sense. In an active sense, the conservation is taking the action to ensure that things that are valued stand a better chance of persisting into the future. It can be closely related to restoration, which involves extending efforts beyond just trying to protect those aspects of the plant world that are of interest, to enhance their conservation worth. In a passive sense the term conservation refer to actions beneficial for plant conservation carried out by people only partly in mind as demonstrated by some tradition conservational practices. There are various features of the world of plants which are getting attention as recent topics of conservation attention, including plant species, the genetic diversity within plant species, plant resources of various sort and types of vegetation. In brief, conservation should be promoted as a culture (Long Chunlin and Pei Shengii, 2003). Plant conservation should not just be a discipline but also an aspiration in terms of how people behave for plant species. The concept of structure is used in all biological research as a complementary concept to function. This is related to physiological processes and structure, anatomy and morphology of the objects under study (Muller-Dumbios and Ellenberg, 1974). Investigators are interested in documenting the structure and floristic composition of forest communities. The combined influence of the plant height, basal area, density and number of species on ‘complexity Index’ in the evaluation of vegetation physiognomy, the vegetation complex fluctuates from season to season and year to year. The fluctuation suggests a response by each species population to incoming heat, moistures and light as modified by the vegetation itself. Therefore investigation will give complete information in relation to the composition, vegetation structure, diversity and other characteristics of plant communities (Stone and Frayer, 1935). There are number of methods to analyze vegetation in relation to environment i.e. Quadrate sampling, Point sampling, Line intercept sampling and Distance method (Methew W. & Robert T.F, 1993). Recently permanent plots have been used to address changes that may occurring in tropical ecosystem due to climatic changes ( Phillips and Gentry, 1994) and their value as a tool in environmental monitoring program is widely recognized. The deliberate relations of herbaceous vegetation with edaphic dynamics of Margalla Hills National Park, Islamabad, exhausting TWINSPAN and DCA ordination (Ahmad, 2009), The scrutinized of vegetation alongside motorway (M-2), Pakistan by means of multivariate procedures i.e. TWINSPAN and DECORANA (Ahmad et al., (2010). When someone come across to the geographic territory of Pakistan one can see that there are number of gaps in the recent quantitative ecological studies, few of such examples are given below. Moinuddin et al, (2006), describe the Phytosociology and Structure of Himalayan forests from different climatic zones of Pakistan, Shahid et, al. (2011) worked on Push Ziarat area Shawal in South Wazeristan and describe Phytosociology of the area and Sheikh Saeed (2012) evaluate the species response to the environmental variable in Ayubia National Park. Moreover few of the studies have relatively thorough approach and have studied vegetation with various angles, few of such examples are also given below. Nafeesa Z. H, (2007) worked on vegetation structure and diversity of moist temperate rangeland of Pir-chenasi Hills, Muzaffarabad. Ayub M. (2009) work on phytosociological and ethnobotanical studies over selected flora in different agro climatic zones of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Shujaulmulk (2011), evaluated the Species and community diversity of vascular flora along environmental gradient in Narran valley: A multivariate approach through Indicator Species Analysis. Furthermore, some of the regions in high elevation Himalayas have not yet been studied. One of such region is Thandiani sub forests division which is as under the following detail. Study area The study area is part of the moist temperate forests of Pakistan with a rich biodiversity. The Thandiani Sub Forests Division is situated in the Galis forest division of Abbottabad, in the west Siran forests division, in north Muzaffarabad & Garhihabebullah in south Abbottabad sub forests division and in east Berangali forests range, between 3329° to 3421° North latitude and 7255° to 7329º East longitudes over an area of 24987 Hectare in which 2484 hectare posses Reserve Forests and 947 hectare posses Guzara Forests. The whole area under reserve forests division KPK in order to preserve the valuable flora and fauna of the area. The hills are 8,600 feet (2,600 m) above sea level; the highest point of the area is Thandiani top with the elevation of 2626 m (8,616 ft). Most of this area is covered with pine forests and may be divided into three Elevation ranges namely top range (2200 to 2600m), medium range (1700m to 2200m) and lower range (1200m to 1700m). Agriculture is the main stay of economy, contributing about 30% to the GNP and employing 55% of labor force. The main crops of the area are Maize, wheat and Potatoes etc. The top range does not have human population. The human population starts from the medium range and the density increases toward lower regions. Some of the adjoining villages include, Gurlania, Tarheri, Riyala, Tarnawai, Balolia, Neelor, Kalapani, Mandroch, Bhoji, Larri, and Pahge. This is difficult area in term of communication and road services. The main tribes in the surrounding villages are Jadoons, Abbasis, Karrlals, Sardars, Awans, Khokhars, Gujjars and Rajputs the main local languages in the villages are Pothohari and Hindko. Gujjars, Abbasis and Sardars are mostly concentrated in the up hills and cultivate the rained slopes, they mostly occupy the forest associated lands, are generally more aware regarding the traditional knowledge of plants and local ecology.
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to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of
Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the
vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by
the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were
recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus
communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper
and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation,
human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of
reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure
on wealth of wild plants.
to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of
Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the
vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by
the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were
recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus
communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper
and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation,
human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of
reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure
on wealth of wild plants.
to 2626m at Thandiani sub Forests Division. A Thandiani sub Forests division including the forests of
Mandroach, Neelor, Kakul, Qalandarabad, Kala pani, Larri, Riala and Sikher, was explored to assess the
vegetation structure and conservation status of economically important species. The vegetation was studied by
the Shannon – Weaver index method during 2012-13. A total of 252 species belonging to 97 families were
recorded from the area. Species diversity and its component values were high in the tree layer (Pinus
communities) in the middle and upper regions of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards the upper
and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation,
human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of
reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure
on wealth of wild plants.
When someone come across to the geographic territory of Pakistan one can see that there are number of gaps in the recent quantitative ecological studies, few of such examples are given below.
Moinuddin et al, (2006), describe the Phytosociology and Structure of Himalayan forests from different climatic zones of Pakistan, Shahid et, al. (2011) worked on Push Ziarat area Shawal in South Wazeristan and describe Phytosociology of the area and Sheikh Saeed (2012) evaluate the species response to the environmental variable in Ayubia National Park. Moreover few of the studies have relatively thorough approach and have studied vegetation with various angles, few of such examples are also given below.
Nafeesa Z. H, (2007) worked on vegetation structure and diversity of moist temperate rangeland of Pir-chenasi Hills, Muzaffarabad. Ayub M. (2009) work on phytosociological and ethnobotanical studies over selected flora in different agro climatic zones of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Shujaulmulk (2011), evaluated the Species and community diversity of vascular flora along environmental gradient in Narran valley: A multivariate approach through Indicator Species Analysis. Furthermore, some of the regions in high elevation Himalayas have not yet been studied. One of such region is Thandiani sub forests division which is as under the following detail.
Study area
The study area is part of the moist temperate forests of Pakistan with a rich biodiversity. The Thandiani Sub Forests Division is situated in the Galis forest division of Abbottabad, in the west Siran forests division, in north Muzaffarabad & Garhihabebullah in south Abbottabad sub forests division and in east Berangali forests range, between 3329° to 3421° North latitude and 7255° to 7329º East longitudes over an area of 24987 Hectare in which 2484 hectare posses Reserve Forests and 947 hectare posses Guzara Forests. The whole area under reserve forests division KPK in order to preserve the valuable flora and fauna of the area. The hills are 8,600 feet (2,600 m) above sea level; the highest point of the area is Thandiani top with the elevation of 2626 m (8,616 ft). Most of this area is covered with pine forests and may be divided into three Elevation ranges namely top range (2200 to 2600m), medium range (1700m to 2200m) and lower range (1200m to 1700m). Agriculture is the main stay of economy, contributing about 30% to the GNP and employing 55% of labor force. The main crops of the area are Maize, wheat and Potatoes etc. The top range does not have human population. The human population starts from the medium range and the density increases toward lower regions. Some of the adjoining villages include, Gurlania, Tarheri, Riyala, Tarnawai, Balolia, Neelor, Kalapani, Mandroch, Bhoji, Larri, and Pahge. This is difficult area in term of communication and road services. The main tribes in the surrounding villages are Jadoons, Abbasis, Karrlals, Sardars, Awans, Khokhars, Gujjars and Rajputs the main local languages in the villages are Pothohari and Hindko. Gujjars, Abbasis and Sardars are mostly concentrated in the up hills and cultivate the rained slopes, they mostly occupy the forest associated lands, are generally more aware regarding the traditional knowledge of plants and local ecology.