Authors :
Dr. Padala Thirupathi; Dr. Dushyant Kumar; Dr. Tirukovela Srinivas; Dr. Kunwar Singh; Dr. Tirunahari Ugandhar
Volume/Issue :
Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 12 - December
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/5n8kdnw9
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/4dsme2b3
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14554536
Abstract :
The Flora of Dharmashala Dhauladhar
Range in the North-Western Himalayan Region of India
is an intricate tapestry of plant diversity shaped by the
unique topography, climate, and altitudinal gradients of
the region. Located in the Kangra district of Himachal
Pradesh, this area is characterized by a wide range of
habitats that span from subtropical zones in the lower
reaches to alpine meadows in the higher altitudes. This
diversity in habitat fosters a rich variety of plant species,
many of which are endemic and have adapted
specifically to the Himalayan environment. The
Dhauladhar Range harbors an array of flora, including
coniferous forests dominated by Cedrus deodara
(Deodar), Pinus wallichiana (Blue Pine), and Abies
pindrow (Himalayan Fir) in mid-altitude regions. The
alpine meadows and subalpine zones support a range of
herbaceous plants, such as Primula, Rhododendron,
Potentilla, and Anemone species. Lower altitudes contain
broad-leaved forests with species like Quercus
leucotrichophora (Banj Oak), Rhododendron arboreum
(Burans), and various shrubs and undergrowth species.
Endemic and Medicinal Species: This region is notable
for its medicinal plants like Aconitum heterophyllum
(Atis), Nardostachys jatamansi (Spikenard), and
Valeriana jatamansi (Indian Valerian), which have
applications in traditional medicine and are sought after
for their therapeutic properties. Endemic species are
prevalent, with unique adaptations to the harsh climatic
conditions, contributing to the ecological uniqueness of
the Himalayan flora. Ecological Significance: The flora
plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, especially
on the steep slopes of the Himalayas. These plant
communities form habitats for various faunal species,
including several endangered and endemic animal
species, supporting biodiversity conservation.
Conservation Concerns: Overharvesting of medicinal
plants, deforestation, and land-use changes due to
tourism and infrastructure development pose threats to
this fragile ecosystem. Climate change impacts, such as
rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns,
further challenge the survival of these species,
necessitating conservation efforts.
Keywords :
Biodiversity, Endemic Species, Climate Change, Overharvesting, Deforestation, Precipitation patterns, Conservation, Pinus Wallichiana, Abies Pindrow, Quercus Leucotrichophora, Aconitum Heterophyllum.
References :
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The Flora of Dharmashala Dhauladhar
Range in the North-Western Himalayan Region of India
is an intricate tapestry of plant diversity shaped by the
unique topography, climate, and altitudinal gradients of
the region. Located in the Kangra district of Himachal
Pradesh, this area is characterized by a wide range of
habitats that span from subtropical zones in the lower
reaches to alpine meadows in the higher altitudes. This
diversity in habitat fosters a rich variety of plant species,
many of which are endemic and have adapted
specifically to the Himalayan environment. The
Dhauladhar Range harbors an array of flora, including
coniferous forests dominated by Cedrus deodara
(Deodar), Pinus wallichiana (Blue Pine), and Abies
pindrow (Himalayan Fir) in mid-altitude regions. The
alpine meadows and subalpine zones support a range of
herbaceous plants, such as Primula, Rhododendron,
Potentilla, and Anemone species. Lower altitudes contain
broad-leaved forests with species like Quercus
leucotrichophora (Banj Oak), Rhododendron arboreum
(Burans), and various shrubs and undergrowth species.
Endemic and Medicinal Species: This region is notable
for its medicinal plants like Aconitum heterophyllum
(Atis), Nardostachys jatamansi (Spikenard), and
Valeriana jatamansi (Indian Valerian), which have
applications in traditional medicine and are sought after
for their therapeutic properties. Endemic species are
prevalent, with unique adaptations to the harsh climatic
conditions, contributing to the ecological uniqueness of
the Himalayan flora. Ecological Significance: The flora
plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, especially
on the steep slopes of the Himalayas. These plant
communities form habitats for various faunal species,
including several endangered and endemic animal
species, supporting biodiversity conservation.
Conservation Concerns: Overharvesting of medicinal
plants, deforestation, and land-use changes due to
tourism and infrastructure development pose threats to
this fragile ecosystem. Climate change impacts, such as
rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns,
further challenge the survival of these species,
necessitating conservation efforts.
Keywords :
Biodiversity, Endemic Species, Climate Change, Overharvesting, Deforestation, Precipitation patterns, Conservation, Pinus Wallichiana, Abies Pindrow, Quercus Leucotrichophora, Aconitum Heterophyllum.