Browsing by Author "Rawat, G.S."

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A study on floristic diversity and plant functional types across various landforms in upper Dhauli valley, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalaya.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2016) Kumar, Amit; Adhikari, B.S.; Rawat, G.S.
In ecological systems, vegetation communities are shaped by various physiographic and edaphic factors which determine their structural and functional attributes. In Trans- Himalayan region of the state of Uttarakhand, limited studies on linkages of floristics, patterns of diversity in various vegetation communities and landforms are available. The region faces disturbances due to various natural and anthropogenic causes. The present research work attempts to assess the diversity of vascular plants, plant community structure and plant functional types (PFTs) in various landforms and physiognomic units in Upper Dhauli Valley, a cold-arid region and buffer of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. This research work has not only generated information on the baseline ecological characteristics of various plant species and communities but also provides valuable management implications. The study is summarized in the following paragraphs. The Upper Dhauli Valley (UDV; ca. 727.7 km2; 30°46-54’N and 79°45-51’E) in Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve was selected for intensive study. The UDV was added as a part of buffer zone of NDBR in 2002 and among the least studied valleys of the region with respect to floristics, floral assemblages and vegetation structure. It has three major watersheds namely, Amrit Ganga, Satyagad and Ganesh Ganga. The present study is based on the extensive surveys of various landscape features, landforms and physiognomic units. Reconnaissance survey in the entire valley was conducted in the year 2011. The field work comprised of floristic survey, systematic collection and record of plant specimens, vegetation quantification and collection of soil samples followed by laboratory analysis
A study on habitat use and food habits of swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli duvauceli) in Jhilmil Tal, Haridwar Forest Division, Uttaranchal
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2009) Tiwari, Rachna; Rawat, G.S.
Habitat use and food habits of the swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli duvauceli) were studied in and around Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve (JJCR), Uttarakhand, during June 2006 and June 2008. This population of swamp deer was recently rediscovered in the state and warranted an ecological study and conservation initiative because the habitat around this study area is heavily fragmented due to expansion of agriculture, habitation and various other land use practices. Therefore, this study was initiated. The major objectives were: i. ii. iii. To study seasonal variation in habitat use pattern and food habits, Activity pattern, Population structure and habitat condition, and iv. Identify threats and suggest conservation measures. Habitat evaluation of various potential (but fragmented) habitat blocks in Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve area and surrounding Banganga wetland revealed that they bear a close resemblance with the prime swamp deer habitat both in terms of structure and composition of key habitat variables.
A study on the structure and composition of forests along an altitudinal gradient in upper Bhagirathi catchment, Garhwal Himalaya.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2001) Uniyal, Sanjay; Rawat, G.S.; Biswas, Sas
The present study highlighted the role of anthropogenic factors in distribution of plant communities in addition to altitude, aspect and slope. Market oriented economy has influenced the ethnobotanical knowledge of the local people. Though human-induced pressures are increasing in the area, still the status of forests in Bhagirathi valley is satisfactory compared to neighbouring areas. Hence, proper conservation and scientific management of such rich and diverse forest in small watersheds should be taken up on a priority basis. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources. Field work (primary source) was carried out during July 1996 to July 1999. Stratified random sampling was done for quantification of various vegetation and site parameters. The study area lies between 780 18' to 780 57' E long and 300 30' to 31 0 08' N lat. It covers an area of ca 2050 sq.km. and has an altitudinal gradient of 279 to 6600 m. For the intensive work two representative watersheds viz., north facing Duggada watershed (DWS) and south facing Bhatwari watershed (BWS) were selected. Objectives of the study include: preparation of baseline vegetation maps of the area, assessment of forest structure and composition, quantification of available woody biomass, documentation of ethnobotanical knowledge of local people and assessing the conservation status of rare plants in the area.
A study on the traditional knowledge and population status of ethno-medicinal plants in Uttarkashi district, Western Himalaya.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2015) Raut, Ninad B.; Rawat, G.S.
This study is design to identify the current status, Population status, Distribution of Ethnomedicinal plants (EMPs) for curative purpose. The aim of this study is to know the importance of these EMPs in order to prioritize them for conservation and suggest strategies for conservation and management of high value EMPs as well as mechanism for formalizing protection of Traditional Knowledge. Uttarkashi one of the largest and culturally diverse district of uttarakhand for this study
A study on the vegetation of shivaliks and outer himalaya in Dehradun dun district Uttar Pradesh
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1996) Bhaisora, N.S.; Rawat, G.S.
The subtropical zone or Bhabar tract in north India, characterized by fertile alluvial plains (Doons) and fragile Shivalik hills of Tertiary period, lies between the Upper Gangetic plains and outer Himalaya revealing the floral and faunal affinities with both the regions. Extensive cultivation, dense human population, industrial developments and livestock grazing in this area has caused fragmentation and degradation of forests. Of about 40,000 km2 only < 2000 km2 area has been brought under protected area (PA) coverage e.g., Rajaji and Corbett National Parks. The remaining forests continue to degrade. 2. Sal (Shorea robusta), a commercially "important tree, IS considered as climax species in this tract and has been studied extensively. However, there is a paucity of information on the overall conservation status and regeneration of forests in this area. Therefore present study was, undertaken with the following objectives: i) to study the structure and composition of the woody vegetation (tree and shrub layer) along the gradients of altitude and human use in Shivaliks and outer Himalaya, ii) to study the species diversity and human-animal use patterns in various zones, and iii) to assess and compare the regeneration status of Sal and associated tree species in the Shivaliks and outer Himalaya. 3. The study was conducted within about 500 km2 area in the lower parts of Debra Dun district, Uttar Pradesh (290 57' to 310 20' N lat and 770 35' to 190 20' E long). The study area also included parts of western Rajaji National Park, westerns Shivalik Forest Division, forests in Doon Valley, protected forest patches adjacent to Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Indian Military Academy (IMA) , Forest Research Institute (FRI), Upper parts of Rajpur, Malsi and mine reclamation sites near Mussoorie
Agro-Pastoral Practices and their impacts on Wild Mammals in Ladakh, Indian Trans-Himalaya
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2024) Raza, Mohd; Rawat, G.S.; Namgail, T.
This study was conducted in Western Ladakh to address the status of current agro-pastoral practices and possible impacts on the wild mammals. Barley and wheat are primary crops whereas alfalfa and oats are cultivated as fodder crops. Sheep, goat and cow are major livestock types. Communities belong to balti and purig ethnicity. Elevation ranges from 2600 – 7000 m. Vegetation comprises wet meadow, steppe, riverine and scrub. Himalayan brown bear, Asiatic ibex, Ladakh urial, musk deer and long tailed marmot are major wild mammals. Major objectives of the study were to study (i) the current status of agro-pastoral practices in the region, ii) vegetation structure and composition in the rangelands intensively used by domestic livestock, iii) habitat use and time budget wild mammals especial long tailed marmots iv) livestock killing by large carnivores in western Ladakh. Field work was conducted during 2017 -2020 in different seasons and valleys. In order to analyse the recent trends in agro-pastoral practices we used questionnaires and informal interviews with the local people ((519 respondents) in all the valley covering Chiktan (56), Suru (227), Drass (117), Shayok (39) and Gya – Meru (39). Data were collected on demography of the pastoral communities, livestock holding pattern, dependency on rangelands and drivers of changes in the region. Likewise, for objective 2) vegetation sampling was carried out in Drass Valley in varying level of livestock grazing intensity from June – August (2018 and 2019). We laid 245 quadrates, comprising 90 in low, 88 in medium and 67 in high grazing areas. We recorded number of species in each quadrat in addition to overall vegetation cover. We also recorded aspect, slope, elevation and landscape type for each quadrat laid in the area. Plants were identified in field using field guides and were authenticated by the supervisors. Habitat use data on marmot were collected from 51 colonies in two valleys whereas data on marmot behaviour was collected from Drass valley. Overall 88 households were interviewed in the valley. Households were randomly selected and data on number of livestock, livestock killed, season, time and place of occurrences were collected. Attitude of respondents with respect to carnivore was also assessed. We observed declining trend in agriculture and livestock production practices in the region. Ten crop types are cultivated in the region. Barley is cultivated in all the valleys whereas oats is a new addition. Crops such as buckwheat, wheat, peas and lentils has been abandoned by many households. Likewise, livestock population and herd size has decreased. Field work was conducted during 2017 -2020 in different seasons and valleys. In order to analyse the recent trends in agro-pastoral practices we used questionnaires and informal interviews with the local people. The local communities perceive that there is a decline in traditional agro-pastoral practices in the study area during past 2-3 decades and an increase in sightings of wild mammals in the study area. Also, they perceive increase in population of Ibex and bear which are widely distributed in the region. We did not have enough sightings on mammal in the summer except for marmots in the region. Sighting on ibex were mostly in winter season. Therefore, impacts of low use of livestock on ibex populations could not be ascertained. We observed difference in vegetation cover and species richness across varying level of livestock intensity. Decrease in vegetation cover and species number, irrespective of all bio physical parameters was observed in high grazing areas. It signifies the impact of livestock grazing with implication on habitat use by mammals.
An Ecological assessment of Baan Ganga wetland, Uttaranchal
(Uttaranchal Forest Department and Wildlife Institute of India, 2006) Rawat, G.S.; Pandav, Bivash; Mathur, V.B.; Sankar, K.; Hussain, S.A.; Adhikari, B.S.; Sinha, B.C.; Pandav, Bivash; Sivakumar, K.; Padalia, H.; Chaturvedi, R.K.; Babu, M.M.
An Ecological Survey of Baan Ganga Wetlands in Haridwar Forest Division, Uttaranchal was conducted during January to November 2006 by a team of faculty and researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Dehra Dun. The study components include rapid assessment of the flora, fauna (mammals, birds and fishes), water and soil quality of the area, mapping of the conservation reserve and designing of interpretive facility for the wetland. 2. Baan Ganga wetland represents a remnant Terai habitat in Uttranchal. Occurrence of endangered swamp deer and a variety of floral and faunal communities typical of Terai habitat amidst human dominated landscape warrants careful co-management approach. A total of 178 plant species were recorded from the Baan Ganga wetlands. Of these, 40 species were hydrophytic, 122 species semi-aquatic and 117 mesophytic. Detailed list of the flora along with their habitat and photographic records have been provided. 3. The survey area faces heavy anthropogenic pressures including heavy livestock grazing, fishing, pollution from the untreated sugar mill effluents, cutting and burning of natural vegetation and agricultural encroachment. Despite several pressures the area continues to attract a variety of wetland birds and has tremendous opportunity for developing a popular eco-tourist destination and thereby creating new opportunities in education, recreation, eco-tourism and research in the area. 4. Based on the rapid ecological surveys on various aspects, following major recommendations are given for the conservation and management of the Baan Ganga area: (i) Maintenance of stream flow all through the year (ii) Traditional fishing as in practice at preset may be continued (iii) Initiate a project to promote aquaculture (iv) Initiate conservation awareness programme for the local people especially about the adverse impact of pesticide use in the agriculture fields around the Baan Ganga. There should be a check on the release of effluents from the industries which are located on the upstream areas. Effluents must be treated before releasing into the natural system (v) Maintain heterogeneity in vegetation types. Aquatic weeds are required to be managed properly in year-wise plan. There should not be any construction along the banks of river which will change the hydrological system hence there will be change in the vegetation types. Cattle grazing needs to be regulated and a proper rotational grazing system needs to be implemented in consultation with the local communities (vi) Control of water hyacinth by utilizing this species as a compost / green manure (vii) Regulate exploitation of Phragmites and Typha and (viii) Develop an interpretation centre highlighting the biological and conservation significance of this area for development of eco-tourism.
An ecological study of sympatric hornbills and fruiting patterns in a tropical forest of Arunachal Pradesh.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2001) Datta, Aparajita; Rawat, G.S.
The tropical forests in north-east India have a diverse assemblage of hornbills (Bucerotidae), ranging from the cooperatively breeding Brown hornbills (Anorrhinus spp.) to the monogamous and territorial Great hornbill (Buceros b{cornis). Focussing on three sympatric species, the Great hom bill (Buceros bicornis), the Wreathed hornbill (Aceros undulatus), and the Oriental Pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris), in a lowland semievergreen forest of Arunachal Pradesh this study attempted. the dispersal syndromes of tree species were evaluated, and their patterns of flowering and fruiting examined. The study was conducted in the lowland semievergreen forests of Pakhui National Park, western Arunachal Pradesh.
An ecological study on the pheasants of Great Himalayan National Park, Western Himalaya.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2003) Ramesh, K.; Rawat, G.S.
The primary focus of the study was to describe the ecological and spatial distribution of three sympatric pheasant species, namely, Himalayan monal (Lophophorus impejanus), koklass (Pucrasia macrolopha) and western tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus) in the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP; 31 0 33' - 31 0 57' N and 770 17' - 770 52' E) in Himachal Pradesh, India. The specific were to: (i) review and test the currently available count techniques and provide estimates of relative abundance; (ii) document group size characteristics; (iii) describe habitat preference and investigate species coexistence; and (iv) develop a spatial model to predict availability of the potential habitats and the probability of occurrence of the study species. The study design included three broad approaches, namely, 1) field sampling, to estimate relative abundance and other behavioral and ecological parameters, 2) associative approach, to establish a relationship between the ecological distribution of the study species and habitat characteristics, and 3) Geographical Information System (GIS) based predictive spatial modelling. An area of 16 km2 was selected within GHNP, based on reconnaissance survey and literature, to serve as an intensive study area
Assessing the Impacts of Livestock-Induced Disturbance on the Vegetation Composition and Forest Regeneration of Sikkim's Mid-Elevation Forests
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2019) Luxom, Nisam Mang; Rawat, G.S.; Sathyakumar, S.
1. Livestock rearing earlier contributed sizeably to Sikkim’s economy, thus putting immense pressure on natural forests, which were converted into artificial pastures. These forests have not been subjected to evolutionary grazing pressure and differ in their sensitivity to the effects of livestock grazing, as compared to the historically-grazed tropical grasslands and rangelands. 2. This study aims to assess the impacts of livestock-induced disturbance on the vegetation and forest regeneration of the Sikkim Himalayan mid-elevation forests. 3. We sampled vegetation in and around pastures under different levels of livestock grazing pressure - from currently grazed to abandoned; and from heavily grazed to lightly grazed. 4. We found highest species richness and diversity values in abandoned pastures, as compared to areas which are currently grazed as well as areas which have not had a historical pasture presence. We found highest species richness and diversity values in abandoned pastures, as compared to areas which are currently grazed as well as areas which have not had a historical pasture presence. 5. We found significant difference between plant species composition among various livestock grazing levels. Species composition differed due to (1) grazing-tolerant herbaceous species, and (2) encroaching shrub or bamboo at the pasture boundaries in the absence of livestock as a control. 6. Seedling densities were overall lower in actively grazed pastures than in abandoned pastures. Seedling densities for buffer forested areas of the different livestock grazing levels were comparable, apart from the lightly grazed treatment, which had very low seedling densities. Sapling densities was higher in and around lightly grazed pastures, than the other livestock grazing levels; this contradicts the trend seen in seedling densities. 7. Seedlings and saplings in lightly grazed areas were from the same species pool; we propose that the decrease in the former and the increase in the latter’s densities is due to successful recruitment of the seedlings to the sapling stage. 8. Livestock grazing level, slope, shrub volume and position of plot (either within the pasture area or in the buffer forested area) explained seedling density. Seedling densities were highest in abandoned pastures, low in areas with high slope values, low in areas with high shrub volume and higher in buffer forested areas, compared to pastures. 9. Livestock grazing levels, slope value, shrub volume and position of sapling (wither in buffer forested areas or pasture areas) influenced sapling densities 10. Areas with and without active livestock grazing had similar proportions of unpalatable – palatable species; suggesting that direct herbivory may not be an important regulation by which density of regenerating is affected. Instead, other indirect livestock-related impacts, such as trampling or dung deposition, could lead to changes in regeneration metrics. 11. Successful regeneration occurs across the different livestock grazing levels, however the composition of regenerating species differs. Restoration of disturbed forests by artificial regeneration may not be required, as it may interfere with natural successional dynamics already in motion.
Assessment of cumulative impacts of hydroelectric projects on Aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins, Uttarakhand
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2012) Rajvanshi, Asha; Arora, Roshni; Mathur, V.B.; Sivakumar, K.; Sathyakumar, G.S.; Rawat, G.S.; Johnson, J.A.; Ramesh, K.; Dimri, Nandkishor; Maletha, Ajay
Assessment of medicinal and aromatic plant species on their collection, usage, demand, markets, price trends and life cycle in Lahaul and Pangi landscape, Himachal Pradesh
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2021) Kumar, Amit; Sathyakumar, S.; Goraya, G.S.; Gupta, A.K.; Adhikari, B.S.; Rawat, G.S.
Nested in the Western Himalaya, the state of Himachal Pradesh (30° to 33°N and 75° to 79° E) is known for its rich biological diversity. It covers an area of 55,673 km2 with >3,300 distinct plants species. Interestingly, the alpine areas of Lahaul and Spiti are one of the major hot spots of wild MAPs in the Western Himalaya. Unfortunately, the remote valleys such as Lahaul, Pangi, Spiti, Kinnaur including micro-watersheds lying in the cold-arid regions of Himachal Pradesh are relatively less studied in terms of available growing stock and population status of MAPs. Notably, there is a general lack of literature on medicinal plants at the catchment, watershed and valley levels. Further, the information on recent levels of trade of MAPs are available only from a few localities of the Western Himalaya. Like other areas, these areas have also been facing additional stress due to over-exploitation of forest resources, including the unscientific and premature harvesting of MAPs from the wild, which functions parallel to the illegal and hidden markets thus, putting tremendous pressure on the wild resource base resulting in the dwindling populations and precarious livelihoods of local communities. The rising demand of herbal products has caused excessive harvesting of many of the important MAPs from these regions, putting their wild population at the risk of extinction. Keeping aforementioned aspects in view, the current study was proposed which aims to study selected Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) species in Lahaul and Pangi landscape of Himachal Pradesh with focus to ensure sustainable harvesting and cultivation by (i) identifying usage patterns of MAPs, and (ii) studying existing value chains. In order to address the project objectives, the present study has been categorized into 12 key tasks. The current study revealed that the major issues adversely impacting the MAP species in the Lahaul and Pangi landscape include illegal/ over/ premature/ unorganized harvesting of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs), high demand and non-transparent operations in the markets of MAPs. Besides these issues, few gaps such as knowledge on available stock of MAPs, lack of information on cultivation and harvesting methods of key MAP species specific to Lahaul and Pangi landscape, lack of information on end users and middlemen and inadequate information on quantity of raw material traded have been reported. In order to optimize the benefits to the local communities and adopt the concepts of sustainable harvesting and benefit sharing, it is important to assess the availability, market trends and methods for collection of MAPs including gathering information on population of selected MAPs. This will help in identifying High Conservation Value Areas (HCVAs) and delineating MPCAs for in-situ conservation in the landscape. Assessment of medicinal and aromatic plant species on their collection, usage, demand, markets, price trends and life cycle in Lahaul and Pangi landscape, Himachal Pradesh Additionally, identification of large traders and industries that acquire their raw materials from Lahaul and Pangi will strengthen the implementation of Access and Benefit Sharing model on pilot basis. Furthermore, identification of hidden markets viz., local, regional and national, price trends, value addition and strengthening BMCs will help in sustainable management of MAPs in the landscape. The first step towards conservation is identifying the existing population base, and information on the species distribution and abundance. Identification of the best cultivation practices, R&D to reduce long-gestation periods, cost effective technology, organic-farming, buy-back mechanisms, policy-revision in the interest of stakeholders, protocols for post-cultivation management, quality-control and awareness training are some measures in this direction. It can be concluded that in order to optimize the benefits to the local communities, and to adopt the concepts of sustainable harvesting and benefit-sharing, it is important to assess the availability, market trends and methods for collection of MAPs, including gathering information on population of selected MAPs. A major step towards species conservation can be spreading awareness on the dwindling populations amongst the stakeholders. It is also important to identify alternative sources of income for the locals to create in them confidence that wild harvest of MAPs was not the only source of cash income and, thus to dissuade them from ruthless wild harvest and to make them participate in conservation programs. Identifying and building the capacities of stakeholders including the forest officials, locals, school children, traditional healers and plant traders can help in community based natural resource management. These issues need to be addressed to ensure long-term conservation of the MAP resources of the landscape in a way that livelihood needs of the local communities depending on this resource are not compromised. The following key recommendations have emerged after this study:  Documentation of the Conservation Status of Key MAPs i Setting aside Conservation Areas around Viable Populations of Priority MAPs ii Strengthening of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) iii Value addition by adopting best Post-Harvest Management Techniques iv Developing Farm-scale Agro-Techniques for Priority MAP Species v Developing Germplasm Banks of the Priority MAP Species vi Study and Monitor Impacts of Climate Change
Characterization of Wildlife articles seized and recent trends in illegal wildlife trade in India: Implication for wildlife forensics
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2023) Sharma, C.P.; Rawat, G.S.
Illegal trade in wildlife parts and products has emerged as an organized transnational crime, threatening the existence of many wild species across the globe. Man is dependent on natural resources including various forms of wildlife for subsistence since its arrival on this planet. Recently, thousands of wildlife including plant, animal and other organisms are subjected to unlawful exploitation for subsistence or illegal wildlife trade for commercial gains. In any wildlife forensic investigation, analysis of biological evidences has perpetual significance in getting conviction of accused or proving innocence. Appropriate analysis of such evidence, not only help in identification and proving possession of a contraband by the accused but also help in establishing link between the suspect, the wildlife, and the crime scene in poaching scenarios. Forensic identification of species from parts and products recovered in various seizures of wildlife articles by various enforcement agencies is the core for implementation of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. While dealing with the results we have considered the fact that the reported offense data is skewed towards few states as there is very less offenses/reporting from few others. The study shows that during the reported period, eight states in alphabetical order, viz. Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh constitute more than 60% reported wildlife offences
Chotanagpur Plateau: Relict Habitats and Endemic Plants
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2008) Kumar, Pankaj; Rawat, G.S.
Conservation status of tiger and associated species in the Terai Arc Landscape, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2004) Johnsingh, A.J.T.; Ramesh, K.; Qureshi, Q.; David, A.; Goyal, S.P.; Rawat, G.S.; Rajapandian, K.; Prasad, S.
The Indian portion of Terai Arc Landscape (TAL), stretching from Yamuna river in the west to Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar in the east, spreads across five states along the Shivaliks and Gangetic plains. This unique Landscape consists of two distinct zones: (i) bhabar, characterized by a hilly terrain with course alluvium and boulders, and sal mixed & miscellaneous vegetation communities and (ii) terai, characterized by fine alluvium and clay rich swamps dominated by a mosaic of tall grasslands and sal forests. The terai, in particular, is listed among the globally important 200 ecoregions for its unique large mammal assemblage. Over the decades as a result of conquest of malaria, establishment of numerous settlements and consequent increase in human population, this Landscape has become highly fragmented and degraded. This has led to the local extinction of species such as one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli) and hog deer (Axis porcinus), for example, west of Sharda river. Despite its ecological richness and faster rate of degradation and species extinction, conservation initiatives are far from desired in this Landscape, perhaps due to inadequate information and lack of coordinated efforts. Given this circumstance, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) submitted a proposal to Save the Tiger Fund (National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, USA) to carry out a survey of TAL on the Indian side, which is ca. 42,700km2 with a forest area of ca. 15,000 km2. Save the Tiger Fund allotted US $53,500 and an 18-month project was initiated in July 2002. The project objectives were to (i) develop spatial data base on the TAL, (ii) assess tiger (Panthera tigris) and large ungulate distribution and status, (iii) describe the status of the Landscape and its vegetation characteristics and (iv) document the socioeconomic conditions of the local people and major disturbance factors. Indian Remote Sensing (1C/1D) satellite images with the spatial resolution of 188m (WiFS) and 23.5m (LISS III) pixel sizes, and Survey of India topographic maps were used for habitat mapping and other spatial database. The study team surveyed the entire Landscape twice between October 2002 and June 2003 for assessing the status of tiger and other associated large mammal species, and habitat conditions. Extensive sampling of 246 foot transects covering 1001.2km and 1530 circular plots, with nested design, were carried out across the TAL. Demographic and socioeconomic profiles of people were derived primarily from the raw data of 1991 Census. Owing to the applied nature of the project, it was decided to hold a two-day workshop to share the findings and to attain synergy among Forest Officials, NGOs and other conservation agencies for implementation in the field. The study revealed that the TAL contains homogenous vegetation communities of eight broad types, but the structural components vary highly across the Landscape. The tiger habitats on the Indian side are in nine blocks (referred as Tiger Habitat Blocks, THB) and the largest block (ca. 4,000 km2) is around Corbett TR. The forests in Kalsi, Dehradun and Haridwar Forest Divisions in Uttaranchal and Bijnor Plantation Division, Bahraich and Shrawasti Forest Divisions in Uttar Pradesh were devoid of tiger. Thirteen corridors that potentially connect these nine blocks have been identified. When connectivity with the Nepal side is taken into account, the nine THBs can be pooled into five larger units (referred as Tiger Units, TU). Among these, TU II, which is in the bhabar tract and includes Corbett TR, is the most intact one. TU IV (Pilibhit FD-Suklaphanta Reserve-Kishanpur WLS-Dudhwa NP- Bardia NP-Katernighat WLS) is the most extensive terai habitat. Each piece of habitat and connectivity in these Units are crucial and at the same time, are threatened by anthropogenic pressures. Ungulate distribution and relative abundance in TAL corresponds to the high variation or heterogeneity in habitat features. However, the overall status of prey (ungulate) availability is reasonably better in this Landscape, largely owing to the interspersion of Protected Areas between Reserve Forests. The evidence is clear that tiger distribution and its abundance are linearly related to wild ungulate prey such as chital (Axis axis) that has wider spatial distribution. Sambar (Cervus unicolor) and wild pig (Sus scrofa) also contribute substantially in deciding the occurrence of tiger in bhabar and terai regions respectively. The domestic dog was identified as a reliable indicator of disturbance that impedes tiger occurrence. Undisturbed hilly (bhabar) areas such as Corbett TR, which usually have many deep nallahs, providing hideouts and abundant prey (sambar, chital and wild pig) support substantial population of tiger. The terai tall grass habitats, which provide adequate cover, as in Kishanpur WLS and Dudhwa NP, with prey such as chital, pig and swamp deer, is the second best. It appears that in a few years time, tigers may cease to exist in habitats like Sohagibarwa-west (THB VIII), an isolated habitat patch in Uttar Pradesh, which is under enormous anthropogenic pressures. Leopards tend to avoid terai habitats and high-density tiger areas, but are still common in areas extirpated of tiger. Data from the Census of India 1991, for 33 tehsils (units of District) within the study area, indicated that the bhabar, largely west of Sharda river, had significantly lower human density (334/km2) and higher percentage of forest cover (36%). The corresponding figures for terai (east of Sharda river) are 436/km2 and 17% respectively. It appears that the bhabar areas, at present, are in a better position to buffer firewood dependency of the people. Human population increase, ever growing habitat encroachments, poaching, firewood extraction and bhabar grass (Eulaliopsis binata) collection for rope making, stealing of tiger and leopard kills, and boulder mining causing enormous disturbances and fragmentation are the major problems identified. The extensive empirical information (distribution and abundance) collected on vegetation parameters, ungulates and tiger can be used as baseline data to initiate monitoring programmes. In addition, the monitoring should include establishment of adequate number of one-hectare plots and line transects for periodic evaluation of habitat conditions and prey abundance respectively. The study recommends that Chilla-Motichur and Gola river corridors should be established on priority basis and the conservation status of THB IV containing Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve-Pilibhit FD-Kishanpur WLS should be strengthened. If done, the former will constitute the largest (ca. 8000km2) tiger and elephant habitat anywhere along the foothills of the Himalaya and the latter will ensure the future of one of the finest terai habitats (ca. 1200km2). Initiation of a conservation programme like establishing Rajaji-Shivalik Tiger Reserve is urgently needed to eliminate boulder mining in Yamuna river to ensure the ranging and occurrence of tigers between Shivalik FD and the Kalesar-Simbalbara forests, the western most limit of tiger distribution range. Raising of fuel wood plantations with community participation, use of fuel-efficient chulas, resettling of gujjars (migratory pastoralists) and eight key villages, shifting of one factory and weaning people from bhabar grass collection and conservation education programmes are also recommended. There was a consensus in the two-day workshop held on 6-7 November 2003 in WII that the Nepal model, with a strong scientific foundation and involvement of local people, needs to be adapted for the Indian side of TAL. Cross border cooperation between India and Nepal is a must to ensure the long-term conservation of tiger and its habitat in this Landscape
Detecting climate change impacts through soil bacterial communities in Alpine regions of Gangotri National Park, Western Himalaya
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2022) Bhattacharya, Pamela; Rawat, G.S.
The proposed study aims to use molecular data to understand the ecology of bacterial community including variation in their diversity, composition and functions in response to climate warming in alpine region of Gangotri National Park, western Himalaya. Earlier to this study, knowledge regarding the ecological traits of these communities and the impact of climate warming was entirely lacking. The primary focus of this work was to generate baseline data on alpine soil bacterial community in the Himalaya. The objectives of this doctoral research are:1. Understanding the shifts in soil bacterial diversity and ecological traits at different periods post deglaciation of Gangotri glacier, western Himalaya. 2. Assessing climate change impacts on soil bacterial diversity and functional traits using alpine elevation-vegetation gradient as proxy. 3. Evaluating the role of temperature and edaphic factors in shaping the community diversity and composition along the elevation-vegetation gradient. 4. Investigating bacterial community response to experimental warming in an alpine.The study was conducted along a recently deglaciated valley in the upper Bhagirathi basin towards the snout of the Gaumukh glacier in Gangotri National Park, western Himalaya (30.95–30.99° N, 78.99–79.06° E)
Determinants of Butterfly Species Diversity : Plant Diversity, Foliage Height Diversity and Resource Richness Across Vegetation Types
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1999) Kunte, Krushnamegh J. ; Rawat, G.S.
MacArthur and MacArthur's (1961) theory of foliage height diversity, which was originally discussed as a determinant of bird species diversity, has been a strong concept describing the possible role of vegetation structure in deciding resource use, habitat selection and diversity of organisms. They measured foliage profile, and calculated foliage height diversity using information theory. Their results showed increase in foliage height diversity from simple to complex vegetation types, and bird species diversity was positively correlated with it. They then proposed an evolutionary mechanism to explain this correlation. A continuous flow of studies on vegetation structure and species diversity or habitat use of organisms followed after MacArthur and MacArthur (1961), but mostly they focused on birds. Subsequently, vegetation parameters other than foliage height diversity, such as horizontal vegetation heterogeneity or patchiness, also proved equally useful or better predictors of bird species diversity. Moreover, some studies revealed that foliage height diversity and bird species diversity were not correlated in a few cases. This brought forth a question whether or not foliage height diversity is a strong determinant of bird species diversity, or a frequent correlate of some other factor that has a strong influence on species diversity. To find out why in some cases MacArthur and MacArthur's (1961) theory did notexplain species diversity, I identified following assumptions in their theory, which were unstated in their paper: i)resources for a species are evenly dispersed within a horizontal vegetation layer, ii)resources are unevenly dispersed across the horizontal layers, iii)even for generalist species, the cost of switching over between layers is high, which would preclude switching over between layers, and iv)if the first three assumptions are true, then each horizontal layer of vegetation would have a different set of species, each layer adding a similar magnitude of diversity in more complex habitats. If these assumptions do not hold true for real biological communities, one would expect that foliage height diversity would not be a good predictor of species diversity in all situations. To test MacArthurs' assumptions and explore patterns of butterfly diversity across vegetation types, I studied butterflies at the Anamalais, southern Western Ghats, in southern India. I sampled foliage height diversity in vegetation plots and butterflies on count lines as well as all-aut-walks (opportunistic sampling), recorded body measurements of the butterflies, floral parameters of the plants on which the butterflies fed, and compiled information on larval and adult feeding plant resources. Using these data, I tested three possible degeminates of butterfly species diversity namely, foliage height diversity, 2.plant species diversity, and 3.resource richness in different vegetation types. This was probably the first attempt to analyse growth form-wise resource richness and utilisation by butterflies across vegetation types, in the light of foliage height diversity theory. Although the correlations between butterfly species diversity, plant species diversity and foliage height diversity were statistically significant, the butterfly species diversity was not perfectly correlated with these two determinants. Butterfly species diversity increased from grassland to deciduous forest, through shrub savannah and teak plantation, but was less in the mid-elevation evergreen forest as compared to the deciduous forest. Plant species diversity and foliage height diversity, on the other hand, increased from the grassland to the evergreen forest, with the deciduous forest falling before the evergreen forest. The resources for butterflies were not distributed in the vegetation types as assumed by MacArthur, and butterflies were not observed following the pattern of habitat or resource utilisation as predicted by the theory. As a result, foliage height and plant species diversity did not satisfactorily explain the butterfly species diversity. However, larval host plant and total plant resource richness correlated significantly and appropriately with the butterfly species diversity. Therefore resource richness seems to be an appropriate and better predictor, or at least a correlate, of butterfly species diversity in situations when other predictors may not be correlated with it. This study suggests that butterfly species diversity is dependent more on the resource diversity. However, foliage height diversity and plant species diversity need not be satisfactory surrogates for resource diversity in all situations. Therefore butterfly species diversity may vary independently of plant species and foliage height diversity. Another important result of this study was that even for butterflies, which are directly dependent on plants, the resource richness is not necessarily correlated with the plant species diversity. It means that butterflies selectively use certain plant resources more than other plant resources. I speculate that it would be underlying utilizable chemical diversity and "sociability" of plant resources used that would ultimately decide butterfly species diversity within a vegetation type. I define a "sociable host plant" as the one that supports many insect "guests". The butterfly assemblages using plant resources with maximum utilizable chemical diversity and sociability would be most diverse in the vegetation type supporting these sociable host plants. However, sociability of the utilizable plant species, and resultant butterfly diversity, may be independent of total plant species diversity or foliage height diversity in the vegetation type.
Developing a Trans-boundary Conservation Landscape for the Eastern Himalaya: an ecological assessment of alpine habitats in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2006) Rawat, G.S.; Tambe, Sandeep
Alpine areas of Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR), Sikkim were surveyed during summer-monsoon of 2006 with the following objectives: (i) Conduct a rapid survey of alpine vegetation communities / physiognomic units vis-a-vis alpine habitats, (ii) Characterize and classify the alpine habitats for major faunal groups and assess the anthropogenic pressures and grazing by the domestic livestock, (iii) Identify key floral assemblages / threatened plants of high conservation significance^ and (iv) Suggest a zonation plan and measures for long term conservation and monitoring of alpine habitats and review the trans-boundary issues. The alpine zone in KBR is spread over Greater and trans-Himalaya and covers nearly 48 % of the reserve. This area harbours a large number of rare and threatened mammals such as Himalayan musk deer (Mochus chrysogaster), Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur), snow leopard (Uncia uncia) and a variety of avifauna. The land use practices in the BR and adjoining areas of Nepal include traditional livestock (yaks, cow-yak hybrids, horses and sheep) grazing, collection of medicinal and aromatic plants and tourism. The area is contiguous with the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area of Nepal. Both the areas, altogether^ promise an excellent potential for a transboundary peace park. Broad vegetation types and alpine habitats have been classified and described in detaiL Based on broad physiognomy and land forms following broad habitat types have been identified in the alpine zone of KBR: Krummholtz Zone, Alpine Scrub, Alpine Meadows, High Altitude Lakes, Moranic Environs, Inaccessible rocky and cliff areas, Riverine Habitats, and Special Habitats (caves, tallus, colluvial deposits). Dominant vegetation types, human use and wildlife within each habitat have been given. Based on the earlier literature and extensive floral survey a tentative list of vascular plants in alpine areas of KBR has been prepared (Appendix - 2) giving their habit, altitudinal zone and threat status. Several plant species of high conservation value have been identified e.g.9 Schizandra grandiflora (a primitive climber with flowers like miniature Magnolia). Helwiga hinmlaica (bearing flowers at the center of the leaf and endemic to the Eastern Himalaya) Circaeaster aqrestis (Chloranthaceae of uncertain affinity), Pinguicula alpina (an insectivorous plant), Triosteum himalayanum (endemic to Himalaya) and Brachycaulos simplicifolius (an unusual herb of Rosaceae) among others. Various trans-boundary issues in the KBR including trans-boundary cultural ties, trade in medicinal plants, pastoralism, historical barter system, etc have been identified and discussed. Based on the detailed analysis of the issues and field surveys of selected areas along with the frontline staff of KBR various management recommendations have been given which include more multidisciplinary surveys in the KBR, training programmes for the frontline staff of KBR and Himal Rakshaks, notification of botanical hotspots within KBR for future monitoring, and better management of trail and camping sites in KBR. The authorities of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in Nepal, and PA Managers in India need to begin a dialogue afresh to revive Singalila Transborder Eco-tourism and set up a long term trans-border peace park for joint protection and management involving the local communities.
Developing predictive models for climatic change and vegetation structure in Western Himalaya
(NATCOM, WINROCK International India and Wildlife Institute of India, 2004) Adhikari, B.S.; Rawat, G.S.
The present study deals with the impact of climate change on the structural and functional attributes (biomass and productivity) of the vegetation along an altitudinal gradient (1600-3700m asl), within watersheds and among different forest types in Garhwal Himalaya. The study provides an insight on the vegetation of Garhwal Himalaya with special reference to temperature and comparison with Kumaun Himalayan forests. Among all watersheds (Dharamganga, Dogadda, Asiganga, Bhatwari and Gangotri), 18 major forest types were identified. Out of 81 sites, most of the sites were dominated by kharsu oak (Quercus semecarpifolia) forest (# 25) followed by banj oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) forest (#8) and mixed-broadleaved, conifer-broadleaved and oak-conifer forests (each #7). The species richness and density were highest (8 and 510 trees ha-1) for horse chestnut, while the total basal area was highest for banj oak forest (74.5 m2 ha-1). The total biomass was highest for horse chestnut forests (487.0 t ha-1), productivity for oak-conifer forest (20.0 t ha-1 yr-1) followed by deciduous broadleaved forest (19.6 t ha-1 yr-1), while the litter fall for deciduous broadleaved forest (6.6 t ha-1 yr-1). The carbon allocation in biomass was highest in horse chestnut forests (243.5 t C ha-1), oak-conifer forest (10.0 t ha-1 yr-1) in productivity and deciduous-broadleaved forest (3.3 t ha-1 yr-1) in litter fall. The total carbon storage was high (196-344 t ha-1) for horse chestnut, oak-conifer, tilonj oak (Quercus floribunda), deciduous-broadleaved, silver fir and kharsu oak forests, intermediate (125-195 t ha-1) for chir pine (Pinus roxburghii), toon (Cedrella toona), mixed-broadleaved, tilonj oak-mixed, conifer-broadleaved, mixed oak and deciduous-conifer forests and low (<125 t ha-1) for alder(Alnus nepalensis), banj oak, deodar(Cedrus deodara), kai (Pinus wallichiana)l and birch (Betula utilis) forests. The carbon accumulation was extremely high (11.4-13.1 t ha-1 yr-1) in deciduous-broadleaved, oak-conifer and horse chestnut forests. Along altitudinal gradient the species richness was highest at 1800, 2300, 2400 and 2500m; density at transition place (1700m) and between 2100-2800m and total basal area at 2700 and 2800m. However, biomass between 2400-3200m, productivity between 2700-3100m and litter fall between 2700-3200m was highest. The allocation of carbon was highest for all the parameters (biomass, productivity and litter fall) was highest at 2800m (kharsu oak/oak-conifer forest) followed by altitude 2700m (kharsu oak/silverfir (Abies pindrow)/oak-conifer forests). Among watersheds, Dogadda having the highest biomass, productivity and litter fall followed by Dharamganga, while Gangotri have the least values for biomass, productivity and litter fall and allocation of carbon was following the same pattern. At a regional scale (both Kumaun and Garhwal, the relationships between temperature and structural and functional attributes are: i) the density declines at 2750m and at 11.1C MAT, ii) the total basal area declines at 2650m and at 11.5C MAT, and iii) the biomass, productivity and litter fall decline at 3050m and at 9.7C MAT.
Distribution of breeding Phylloscopus and Seicercus warblers in the Himalayas: Role of ecomorphology and competition.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2012) Ghosh, Mousumi; Rawat, G.S.; Price, Trevor
Present study is carried out for the overarching goal of understanding the ecological and historical determinants of geographic and altitudinal distribution of sixteen breeding Phylloscopus and Seicercus species in the Himalayas. The broad research objectives were as follows: 1. Assess the availability of arthropod resources across the eastern and western Himalaya along the elevational gradients. 2. Identify the climatic correlates of the breeding distribution of Phylloscopidae. 3. Examine the geographic variation in foraging ecology of Phylloscopidae across the Himalayan bioclimatic gradient.