Species Diversity, Carbon Stock Density and Soil Physico-Chemical Properties of Chauras Campus (Garhwal University) Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Trees are planted in educational institutions in order to maintain the greenery and to provide an aesthetic view. Along with this they also play a key role in accumulating carbon from the atmosphere. The functioning of trees largely depends on soil conditions too. In the present study we explored to document species diversity, carbon stock density and soil physico-chemical properties of Chauras campus (HNB Garhwal University). The tree biomass and carbon stock were calculated using non-destructive methods and soil properties were assessed in the departmental soil laboratory. A total of 831 individuals belonging to 38 species and 21 families were recorded. A total carbon stock density of 1,1270.78t CO2e was also recorded. The present study analyses species diversity, carbon stock density, soil properties and the presence of vulnerable species in the Chauras campus in accordance with the IUCN Red List.