Regeneration problem in Quercus floribunda Lindl. ex A. Camus. in its lower altitudinal range

Abstract

Himalaya are mainly dominated by broad-leaved Oak forests, which provides several ecosystem services and support local inhabitants for their livelihood. Quercus floribunda, not only provide crucial resources but also supports the survival systems of people living in the hills, though the regeneration of the species is declining over time. The present study was conducted in the Kumaun and Garhwal region of Uttarakhand to assess the composition and regeneration of Q. floribunda dominated forests in its narrow altitudinal range (1900–2600).. A total fourteen Q. floribunda dominated forests were selected at three elevations, High elevation sites (HES: 2600–2300 m), Mid elevation sites (MES: 2290–2150 m) and Low elevation sites (LES: 2100–1900 m). A total of 53 woody plant species including 14 trees and 39 shrubs were recorded from all the study sites. In the HES Q. floribunda had the highest total basal area ranging from 2551 m²/ha. The species appears to be regenerating profusely at MES and HES, however, low seedling density was a conspicuous feature at LES. The conversion of seedlings to saplings was upto 95% at MES. The maximum seed fall density in year 2023 was observed at the HES (31 seeds m^-2). However, 2024 was a poor seed year; the seed fall was almost negligible in all the elevations. The poor regeneration of Q. floribunda at LES could be due to varied climatic factors and increasing anthropogenic pressure. It is clearly noticeable, that the regeneration status of Q. floribunda in the study area is “poor” and at risk in LES and systematic management plan for the conservation of Q. floribunda is essential at LES.