Elevational patterns of tree regeneration across forest types in the Central Himalayas of Nepal

Title : Elevational patterns of tree regeneration across forest types in the Central Himalayas of Nepal

Abstract:

Natural regeneration is a key indicator of forest health and long-term sustainability, yet quantitative data across elevational gradients in the Central Himalayas remain limited. We assessed the regeneration status of tree species in seven forest types spanning tropical to sub-alpine zones (671–3492 m) in Sindhupalchowk and Dolakha districts, Nepal. Systematic random sampling with nested circular plots was used to record seedlings, saplings and trees. Densities, diameter-class distributions and a Regeneration Index (RI) were calculated. Altogether twenty tree species were documented from all forest types studied. Most stands exhibited reverse J-shaped diameter distributions, indicating ongoing recruitment. Sal (Shorea robusta) forests showed the highest regeneration (RI = 15.71–25.07), while the high-elevation Rhododendron-dominated forest displayed only fair regeneration (RI = 1.85). Taxus wallichiana and Abies-Rhododendron stands maintained positive but lower recruitment. Scarcity of large-diameter trees in several stands pointed to anthropogenic pressure. These baseline data highlight the need for species- and elevation-specific management to sustain Himalayan forests under increasing human and climatic pressures. 
 

Biography:

Samir Bhandari is an ecologist and botanist with an M.Sc. in Botany specializing in Ecology and Natural Resource Management from Tribhuvan University, Nepal. He has conducted field studies in conservation areas including Manaslu and published his work in academic journals and national media. Samir has also contributed to environmental initiatives through the USAID Clean Air Project and has received research grants from organizations including the National Trust for Nature Conservation.