REPORT ON THE BOTANICAL STUDIES IN PALAS VALLEY (1992-1995)

THE FLORA OF PALAS VALLEY AND PLANT CONSERVATION PRIORITIES

BY RUBINA A RAFIQ NATIONAL HERBARIUM NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH CENTER ISLAMABAD

REPORT PREPARED FOR HIMALAYAN JUNGLE PROJECT, PALAS VALLEY, KOHISTAN.

ABSTRACT
Flora, vegetation and phytogeographical affinities of Palas valley have been studied for the first time. An attempt is made to highlight the floristic peculiarities for biodiversity conservation of Palas valley. The valley is characterised by a marked change in the climate, soil and vegetation from east to west. The study provides a checklist of plants of Palas valley. Seven species endemic to Pakistan are found in Palas. Three new species, Jasminum leptophyllum R.A.Rafiq, Delphinium palasianum R.A.Rafiq and Pseudomertensia flavescens R.A.Rafiq were discovered during the present investigation. Rare species endemic to Pakistan collected during the present survey include Rhamnella gilgitica, Pseudomertensia sericophylla which were known from the type locality only. Some other rare species found in Palas are mentioned. The chorological spectrum of species show a high percentage of species with a distribution range restricted to adjoining areas. A significant proportion of species is confined to the Northern mountains of Pakistan, Kashmir and east Afghanistan. A considerable number of Central Asian and Sino-Himalayan species are also found in the valley. About one third of the flora has wider distribution with palaeotropical elements represented in lower elevations. Holarctic and boreotemperate elements are represented in the montane and sub-alpine and alpine zones. Some selected examples are discussed with their status in Palas valley. Three main vegetation zones determined by climate and topography are recognized in the valley. In each vegetation zone, micro-scale habitats pattern is influenced by soil, moisture, exposure to solar radiation, inclination of the slope and snow accumulation. According to a great diversity of microhabitats, plant communities are highly diversified in each vegetation zone. Diversity of small scale habitat offers an oppurtunity to a variety of discrete plant communities which host some unique species of plants peculiar to Palas valley. The unique features of each plant community are descibed in detail and natural and human threats are mentioned. Recommendations are made diversity of Palas valley. for conservation of plant

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I thank Guy Duke, Project Coordinator, BirdLife/WWF Himalayan Jungle Project (HJP), Islamabad (Pakistan), for proposing and encouraging my botanical work in Palas which led to PhD study in Vienna University. I am grateful to Dr Mumtaz Malik, Conservator (Wildlife) NWFP, for his encouagement, support and help during my field work. I am grateful to Dr Zafar Altaf, (ex-)Chairman Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Pakistan, for supporting PARC-HJP collaboration. I am deeply indebted to professors Dr. H Riedle and Dr. G. Grabherr for their guidance and supervision during my studies at Vienna. I am grateful to Dr. G. Grabherr who visited Palas valley in 1995 during my field work for his help and valuable discussions in the field. I am grateful also to my field colleagues and assistants Naeem Ashraf Raja, Abdul Ghafoor and Noor Naeen of HJP, and Sikander Hayat of NARC; and to the people of Palas for their hospitality. My thanks to Razwal Kohistani for collecting information on socioeconomic uses of plants of Palas. I thank the Directors of the Herbaria, Natural History Museum, Vienna, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, for providing facilities to study the specimens and type material. I also wish to thank Mr. Bernhard Dickory for his help during identifications of grasses and sedges and his valuable suggestions. This study was made possible by generous financial assistance from the Austrian goverment and HJP. HJP (1991-1994) was implemented by BirdLife International in partnership with the NWFP Forest, Fisheries and Wildlife Department, World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), National Council for Conservation of Wildlife and World Pheasant Association; HJP was financed predominantly by the British Overseas Development Administration (ODA), WWF, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Biodiversity Support Program (a USAID-funded joint venture of WWF-US, the Nature Conservancy and World Resources Institute).

CONTENS
INTRODUCTION AIMS AND OBJECTIVE BACKGROUND TOPOGRAPHY, GEOLOGY, CLIMATE METHODOLOGY RESULTS AND DISCUSSION FLORAL DIVERSITY PHYTOGEOGRAPHIC AFFINITIES VEGETATION COLLINE/SUBMONTANE ZONE QUERCUS BALLLOOT FOREST MONTANE ZONE CEDRUS DEODARA FOREST ABIES PINDROW-PICEA SMITHEANA FOREST BROAD-LEAVED DECIDUOUS FOREST SUB-ALPINE AND ALPINE ZONE MIXED SHRUB COMMUNITY BETULA UTILIS FOREST DWARF JUNIPER-RHODODENDRON SCRUB COMMUNITY KOBRESIA COMMUNITY RUMEX NEPALENSIS COMMUNITY SNOWBED FORB COMMUNITY KOBRESIA COMMUNITY WITH MABY FORBS ROCK SCREE VEGETATION GRAZED AVALANCHE MEADOW AVALANCHE MEADOW AVALANCHE SHRUB COMMUNITY TALL FORBS SPECIES RICH COMMUNITY RUMEX SAMBUCUS COMMUNITY NATURAL AND HUMAN IMPACTS ON VEGETATION RECOMMENDATIONS REFERENCES ANNEX CHECKLIST OF PLANTS OF PALAS VALLEY PLANTS OF SOCIO ECONOMIC VALUE 5 8 8 10 13 15 15 19 41 42 45 46 47 48 50 53 53 54 54 56 57 58 59 61 62 64 66 68 69 71 76 78 86 86 140

SUB-ALPINE PASTURE SIBBALDIA CUNEATA COMMUNITY 54

1. INTRODUCTION
Considerable progress has been made during the past two decades on taxonomic studies for Flora of Pakistan in collaboration Herbarium floristic information with National is far Herbarium, Karachi from as PARC and but New are Botany is Department, University, complete. more areas

information becoming

available

opening up to researchers due to improved transportation facilities especially in the mountainous areas of the country. Several areas in these mountain ranges are not well known to science because of difficult terrain, lack of transportation facilities and socio-cultural and political reasons. Northern Pakistan is among some of the most fascinating regions where three great mountain ranges: Himalaya, Karakoram and Hindukush meet with several peeks rising more than 7000 m above sea level. The great variety of habitats incised found valleys in steep with high mountains and deeply have diversified topography

resulted in special ecological niches that store large number of endemic species of plants and animals. The flora close in these mountains the flora has has characteristics stronger influence and of diversity not found in other parts of world. Due to proximity flora of Central Asian mountains. In Pakistan, according to an estimate natural forests cover less than 5% (4.29 million hectares) of the total land area. A large proportion of our natural forests are mainly coniferous forests (1.78 m ha about 41.4% of total forest area) which are confined to northern mountain ranges. During the past few decades extensive

deforestation mountains Kashmir,

has

been

done

and for

vast

areas

in

the

have Kaghan

been and

cleared Swat

commercial According

timber to some

extraction and expanding human settlements especially in valley. recent study in Kaghan valley potential forest area has decreased by about 50% (Schickoff 1995). In Siran valley the forest cover has decreased by 45% between 1979 and 1988 (GTZ report 1990), the information is based upon remote sensing data (Landsat MSS and TM). In 1992 these areas suffered most due to heavy rains resulting in devastating flood that damaged property and human life on a large scale. The physical environment is changing as a result of increased concentration of greenhouse gases causing global warming and depletion of ozone layer bringing climate changes on global scale. The global climate is expected to warm between 1o and 5o C during the next 100 years. Biotic responses to global climate change are difficult to predict and rate of change is accelerated by anthropogenic influences. These large scale changes in our environment High in are effecting ecosystems our are ecosystems in different ways and to various extents (Solomon & Shugart 1993). mountain a particularly (Markham et vulnerable changing environment

al.1993). Global warming leads to a reduction in alpine biodiversity as a result of upward migration of lowland species, especially in mountains rich in endemic species (Grabherr et al. 1995). Natural habitats are shrinking plantations due of to man induced species,

changes in the form of clearing of forest areas for agriculture, forest exotic expanding human settlements due to population growth,

construction of roads and large dams, etc. Large scale development projects fragment large ecosystems of rich biodiversity into smaller units. In such a fragmented system rate of extinction or loss of species is faster than not and in know to a larger habitat at this the because stage local ecological different will niches plant become weedy available for survival are proportionally reduced. We do exactly what how species will respond to climatic and ecological changes degree and flora impoverished intermingle with introduced

species following human activities. In response to environmental and anthropogenic pressures on biological resources there is a growing need for the conservation of natural ecosystems. In this context it is necessary to preserve biodiversity of at all organizational levels. Preservation pristine

ecosystems with habitats, communities and species that have unique characteristics of scientific interest and importance is necessary for long term ecological wellbeing. Palas valley remained isolated for a long time due to its difficult terrain and tribal culture. It lies in the transition zone between regions of monsoon and Mediterranean climate. Representative vegetation types and floristic elements from SinoJapanese valley offers and Mediterranean an of great and different variety climatic that region floras. of niches diversity organisms found to Palas due and in in the the its a provide a opportunity study to

interaction topographic generally

valley hosts

number of unique species of animal and plant. It is believed borderline

regions are more vulnerable to ecological changes and they either migrate or evolve new ranges of tolerance. Palas valley can also serve as reference area for measuring and documenting long term ecological changes. In the present study an attempt is made to provide information on the diversity of species, communities and habitats of scientific interest to select Palas valley as a representative site for biodiversity conservation. 1.1 AIMS AND OBJECTIVE To prepare preliminary checklist of the plants of Palas valley To evaluate the floral diversity and Botanical importance of Palas Valley, and to highlight species and communities of particular interest. To analyse the phytogeographic affinities of the Palas Flora To identify and describe the variety of the plant communities in Palas To assess the human impact on plants and plant communities in Palas, identify threats to them, and prepare recommmendations for their conservation. To prepare a preliminary checklist of plants of Socioeconomic value in Palas, as a basisfor further ethnobotanical work for sustainable use of plants.

2. BACKGROUND
Palas valley district Kohistan, Northwest Frontier

Province (see Fig. 1 & 2) is one of the inner valleys of Northwestern Himalaya that has been isolated from the rest of the world due to socio-cultural reasons. Palas valley has a distinct position among neighboring valleys for its variety of habitats and forest communities of

near primary condition distributed over an altitudinal range of 800 m to over 5151 m. Apart from floral diversity Palas contains a variety of wild birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects. Over 140 bird species have been recorded so far including seven of the eight 'restricted range' West Himalayan species and the largest known population of the globally threatened western tragopan-Tragopan melanocephalus (Guy Duke 1995). Many rare and threatened species of mammals are noted including Kashmir gray langur Presbytis entellus, black bear Selenarctos thibetanus, leopard cat Felis benghalensis, musk dear Moschus chrysogaster and markhor Capra falconeri and many others. Rich diversity of biological resources makes it suitable for future scientific research to monitor response of individual species, communities and ecosystem as a whole to global climatic change and other ecological disturbances induced by human activities. Palas has a population of about 40,000 and their economy depends mainly on forest resources. It is one of the least developed areas of Pakistan with no industry in the area and literacy rate of 1.4%. Employment opportunities do not exist in the area and people go to big cities for labour in construction work or other minor jobs. Agricultural activities are not self sustaining, only 4.8% of the land is under cultivation, mean farm size is about 1-2 ha. Maize is the main crop cultivated, some vegetables are also grown on a small scale. Crop yields are low due to poor seed, inadequate irrigation and fertilizer, poor cropping practices and uncontrolled

pests and diseases. Additional food is brought in the valley from other areas to meet the shortages. Traditional move life style with of people of Palas involves winter spend

seasonal transhumance, in which most of the population seasonally and their livestock between people villages summer pastures. Generally

most of their time sitting around and enjoying each others company. There is no social pressure towards any accomplishment or industriousness. Maize bread is the staple food in the area supplemented by vegetables grown around forests. maize fields or wild herbs collected honey and from milk Sometimes locally produced

products are also consumed additionally when available. Severe migrate inter-family to other valley disputes areas forced data are common their to go for and disrupt and

agriculture and livestock herding. In some cases people abandoning people farms to houses. In 1995 dispute over Chaur pastures with the neighboring over Khabkot pastures where severe overgrazing was observed due to crowding during collection vegetation study. Palas valley escaped the attention of botanists for a long time due to its difficult terrain and tribal culture, although the adjacent valleys of Kaghan and Swat were visited by several collectors since the last century. During the preparation of an inventory of the plants of the valley for The Himalayan Jungle Project (1992-1994), some interesting discoveries were made which led to the present study. An attempt is made to identify species, communities and habitats of special

10

interest

in

Palas

as

representative

site

for

conservation of biodiversity in Pakistan. 2.1 TOPOGRAPHY, GEOLOGY, CLIMATE Palas valley (34o 48/-35o 12/ N & 73o 35/-75o 52/ E) lies East of the River Indus in District Kohistan, Hazara Division, NWFP (see Fig. 2). Palas is bounded to the North by Jalkot valley (District Kohistan), to the East by Kaghan valley (District Mansehra) and to the South by Allai valley (District Mansehra). Palas is reached by crossing river Indus from Karakorum Highway at Pattan, and taking the unmetalled PattanZiarat road (under construction) c.12 km to the roadhead near Karat, at the mouth of MushaGa. Beyond the roadhead, access is only by foot. An alternate route is to take the unmetalled road to Badakot and cross the Sherakot pass. In July-September, mountain passes are open to Kaghan and Allai. Palas Arc. valley Altitudes lies among from the 750 front m to ranges 5151 of m. the The

westernmost extension of the Himalayas -- the Kohistan range topography is steep to precipitous, with a number of narrow gorges. The main river--the MushaGa, is about 75 km long and joins the River Indus at 73o05'E, 35o08'N. Palas (including the independent catchments of Sherakot and Kolai) covers a map area of 1413 sq. Km. The main Palas river or MushaGa starts in the high mountain chain bordering Kaghan valley and flows in the East West direction meeting River Indus near Pattan. Several small streams coming from various side valleys meet MushaGa at different points. Main Palas valley is

11

narrow

and

deep

for

most

of

the

part,

however,

it

broadens somewhat near Wulbela and bifurcates into two gorges. Chaur Nala and Neela Nala come from these gorges and meet to form MushaGa (or Chauru river)--the main river of Palas valley. A series of secondary spurs run in North-South direction ranging in elevation from 2000 m (Shukiser) to 4200 m (Kunari Pass). At higher elevations heavy snow accumulates during winter and melts slowly during summer and trickle into small streamlets which join eventually and meet main MushaGa river at different points down the valley. These streams cut narrow deep gorges and ravines flanked by tall high ridges. A vast area of more or less undulating alpine meadows is found at the crest of these ridges ranging from 3200-4000 m from Muro to Gutab. There is an interesting tendency for many of these ridges to raise their crests in to narrow peaks rising to up 4000 m or more, especially Kunari top and Tikoh top along Khabkot valley, where alpine area is represented by steep slopes only. Most of these spurs make an abrupt descent to the bottom of the valley along MushaGa and character of vegetation changes suddenly. Average elevation of these ridges varies from 1800 to 3200 m asl. The highest peak is Bahadar ser c.5151 m situated in the North between Palas and Jalkot valley Climatic figures are not available, Khan (1989) gives an estimated mean annual precipitation of 900 mm to 1350 mm. According to personal experience in the field and reports from local people Palas valley has warm to hot summers, and cold winters. Area along main Palas river in lower Palas valley experience hot summer and mild winter. High altitude (above 3000 m) areas receive heavy

12

snow fall during winter (October to March) and remain under snow from October to June. Snow fall starts at higher areas altitudes have a as early short as snow late free September. period for Alpine plant very

growth during summer from late June to early September. From March to June there is generally a rain free dry period. The summer rains start in July, but the valley is somewhat to sheltered the South from and the the monsoon amount of rains rains by is mountains

decreased in Palas. Information on geology of the area is not available. Generally rocks are granitic, quartz and shale, silicious bedrock material is predominant.

3. METHODOLOGY
The floristic exploration of Palas valley was started in September 1992. In 1993-1995 more surveys were conducted during early summer and late summer season starting from early June to mid September. The survey was made by trekking through different valleys and ridges up to approachable height of 4300 m to cover all vegetation zones in the area including colline, montane, sub-alpine and alpine zone. I feel it necessary to mention the extraordinary

difficult conditions for field work in the area. There are no roads in the valley and survey can be made only by walking through difficult paths on steep slopes used by local people and their livestock. Logistic facilities do not exist and food stuff for field team and porters has to be taken in to the valley for the period planned for field work. All these factors together make it

13

almost practically impossible to spend more than two weeks at a time for survey. FLORAL INVENTORY AND PHYTOGEOGRAPHY For the preparation Field of checklist collected was of flora, about suitable for locality,

plant

specimens

were data

and

pressed

herbarium.

recorded

habitat, altitude, habit of plant, flower color, etc. Specimens standard were later dried and at mounted according to

herbarium

procedures

National

Herbarium,

Islamabad. The specimens were identified subsequently and deposited in the National Herbarium (RAW), NARC, Islamabad. The inventory of plant species was prepared on the basis of plants collected in the area and the distribution range of each species was taken from the existing literature. Flora of Pakistan (1970) and was other regional floras were used for identification and distribution collected at information. KEW herbarium Further and information Herbarium, Natural

History Museum, Vienna. ECOLOGY AND PHYTOSOCIOLOGY For phytosociological study Braun-Blanquet method was applied (1974). already as described in plant Mueller-Dombois were communities & in Ellenberg in all different Representative recognized releves selected

vegetation zones in the area. The releve of suitable size was selected in a homogenous vegetation area. A total of 84 releves were studied. Each releve recorded include an inventory of species in each plot and estimate of the percentage cover for each

14

species altitude

according of the

to plot

the was

Braun-Blanquet recorded with

scale. a

The

Thomen

altimeter. Exposure and gradient were recorded with a Suunto clinometer. The size of releve varied from 9 to 400 m2 depending on the type of community studied and availability of homogenous plots. All the samples were taken in late June to early August. Late June and early July period was most suitable for forest communities between an altitude of 1000-2800 m when grazing was minimum but most of the herbaceous flora was in its early stages of development. However, above 2800 m there was still too much snow and there were no plants at that time. Most of the alpine and subalpine communities were recorded from late July to early August when grazing was moderate. In late August and September the vegetation in montane and alpine zone was strongly affected by grazing and it was impossible to select any sample plot with some homogenous natural vegetation and identifiable plants. Classification computer Karl of releves was carried out using the

program

TWINSPAN of

developed Vegetation

at

Cornell and

University by Hill (1979) with some modifications by Dr. Reiter, Department Ecology Conservation Biology, University of Vienna. The original two way table output is given in Table 1. This study provides of Palas a first reconnaissance No attempt is of made the to communities valley.

arrange it in a syntaxonomical hierarchy and to describe syntaxa according to the recommendations of the code of phytosociological nomenclature (Barkman, Moravec & Rauschert 1986). To do syntaxonomical work much more

15

must be known about the floristic composition of plant communities of Northwestern Himalaya.

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 FLORAL DIVERSITY The present inventory is based on plants collected from the area during visits of the valley from 1992-1995 mainly in monsoon season, no collections were made in spring season. About 600 species have been recorded for the area so far, including 19 species of pteridophytes. The families, genera and species are arranged in alphabetical order. The species name is followed by its general distribution and range of altitude. Gymnosperms species. species are represented deodara, large by 4 families wallichiana, the montane and 11

Cedrus and

Pinus area in

Abies zone

pindrow, Picea smithiana form the dominant forest tree cover throughout the valley. Juniperus semiglobosa replaces Cedrus deodara and forms open forest communities with Pinus wallichiana on dry rocky scree slopes in upper Palas valley. Juniperus communis and J. squamata are common throughout the valley above 2700 m in sub-alpine and alpine scrub vegetation. Ephedra gerardiana is also common in steppic kind of vegetation in upper Palas valley. Ephedra ciliata is frequently found as a scattered species in the colline zone. Tall trees of Taxus wallichiana are generally found as a scattered tree in mixed conifer forest but in some localities branched shrubby form is growing gregariously in broadleaved forests along Khabkot river.

16

Angiosperm

taxa

are

represented

by

96

families.

The

families represented by the highest number of genera and species are given below:
FAMILIES 1. Poaceae 1. Compositae 1. Labiateae 1. Rosaceae 1. Ranunculaceae 1. Umbelliferae 1. Papilionaceae 1. Polygonaceae 1. Caryophyllaceae 1. Cyperaceae 1. Scrophulariaceae 1. Boraginaceae 1. Brassicaceae 1. Caprifoliacea 1. Gentianaceae NO OF GENERA 40 36 17 14 11 17 13 8 10 4 9 8 12 3 5 NO. OF SPECIES 62 53 29 28 26 23 21 17 16 16 15 14 13 13 10

The remaining families are represented by less than ten species, 40 families are represented by one genus and one species. Seven species endemic to North Pakistan were collected from Palas including were a three new a species. Jasminum survey type leptophyllum, Pseudomertensia flavescens and Delphinium palasianum, gilgitica, collected species during known botanical from from Palas -- the only locality known so far. Rhamnella rare only the collection. It is rediscovered in Palas after it was collected from Gilgit in 1937 by Troll. The type was destroyed in Berlin herbarium during second world war. Pseudomertensia sericophylla is also known from the type specimen which was collected from Nathia gali area in 1907 by Harold Dean.

17

Pseudomertensia, an endemic genus to Western Himalaya and East Afghanistan, is represented by four species in Palas. P. trolli is confined to Pakistan and Kashmir and P. moltkioides is also found in Afghanistan Some other rare species confined to North Pakistan are Fraxinus raibocarpa and Rhododendron collettianum which are known from Hindukush range as far West as Chitral and Dir. This is the first record for these species East of Indus river extending the range to NW Himalaya. Several other rare species confined to North Pakistan and Kashmir are found in Palas. Some selected examples are given. Meconopsis aculeata is a rare species, known only from Kaghan valley and adjacent Kashmir in Pakistan. It was collected from Palas at 2400 m on a shady snow swept rock scree along Khabkot river. Delphinium tenuipes, a rare species known from Hindukush area, grows as single plant in dry montane areas with some damp soil in upper Palas valley. Aquilegia nivalis, an alpine species with attractive

deep blue flowers is restricted to special habitats in shady and moist rocky areas above 3000 m, infrequent in the valley. Saussurea (Convention Species). Inula royleana, a rare species found in sub-alpine fir forest is seen only in a few localities in Palas. costus, on a medicinal plant Trade collected of on

commercial scale, is included in appendix III of CITES International Endangered

18

Saxifraga

stenophylla,

high

altitude

species

seen

above 3800 m in wet rocky areas in Palas. Ulmus wallichiana, an endangered species listed in IUCN Red data book, valley. is A found small in broad-leaved forest to in be Khabkot population, appears

reproducing well with several trees of different ages, grow along Khabkot river at the base of slopes on valley floor from 1800-2700 m. Ulmus villosa, a rare West Himalayan elm is seen only in one locality around Paro village in Palas. Cypripedium montane cordigerum, zone as a a rare orchid grows in the

forest

scattered

plant,

is

often

picked up by people walking through the area for its fascinating flowers. Only few plants can develop mature seeds which are hidden in the herbage. Herminium piogioniforme, another rare small orchid grows in alpine meadows in Palas, no herbarium specimens were seen from Pakistan although it is expected in the area. The flora is characterized by a high percentage of

species with a restricted range of distribution in the adjoining areas. Most of the species are found over a wide range of altitude. More than half of the species are distributed in montane and alpine habitats. About 120 species are found only in alpine and sub-alpine areas above 2700 m. The high percentage of cosmopolitan species, mostly weedy elements, are mainly represented in the colline zone.

19

4.2 PHYTOGEOGRAPHIC AFFINITIES The geographical location of Palas valley in the inner Himalayan Karakoram, range and in relation make its of to it Kashmir It Himalaya, for a occupies Hindukush studies interesting

phytogeographic

flora.

transitional zone between moist monsoon climate and dry Mediterranean type climate with winter precipitation. In this area interaction of the floras of Central Asia, the Mediterranean (Irano-Turanian) and Sino-Japanese region can be studied. The a present better work will contribute of the information towards understanding

phytogeographic affinities of the West Himalayan region as a whole. A detailed analysis of the distribution pattern of all taxa in other area is needed to draw a definite conclusion about relationship of the flora. Phytogeography of Himalayan mountains has been studied by a number of botanists such as Clarke, Hooker, Troll, Meusel, Schweinfurth, Hara, Kihara, Landon, Gupta, Mani and others and valuable information is available mainly on Central and Eastern Himalaya and Kashmir-NW India Himalaya. information However, about floristic West of and biogeographic is still areas Kashmir

fragmentary. A broader approach is adapted in this study to give a general view of the flora and its relationship to adjacent regions. Hooker (1906) recognized West Himalaya as a distinct botanical province within Himalaya extending from Kumaon (Uttar Pradesh, India) in the East through Kashmir to Chitral in the West. There is much confusion and general disagreement subdivisions on of the precise boundaries regions of the major by phytogeographic proposed

20

various

authors

and

affinities

of

the

flora

with

adjacent areas. According to Kitamura (1960) the Sino-Japanese region extends through Western Himalaya into East Afghanistan. Kitamuras view was followed by Hara (1966), Zohary (1973), Ali & Qaiser (1986). Meusel (1971) concluded that Mediterranean elements are strongly represented in the West Himalayan flora. Mountains West of Indus river are included in the Irano-Turanian region (Ali & Qaiser 1986). Wendelbo (1971) recognised stronger influence of Central Asian elements in East Afghanistan and adjoining mountains of Pakistan. Hedge (1986) suggested a review of currently of used the phytogeographic flora has terminology over as our past knowledge increased the

decades and the concepts developed in phytogeographic region need to be redefined. Analysis of the distribution range of all the species showed that a large proportion of the flora has range restrictions species show of various degrees. About in 2/3 of the and restricted distribution Himalaya

adjoining mountain ranges. About 1/3 of the species have wider distribution in the Northern hemisphere with some cosmopolitan elements. On the basis of different levels of endemism following major categories can be recognized: 1. widely distributed species 2. species endemic to the Palas valley and Pakistan 3. species India 4. species endemic within Himalaya endemic to N Pakistan, Kashmir & NW

21

5. species

endemic

to

Himalaya

and

Hindukush

(E

Afghanistan) 6. species endemic to Himalaya, Hindukush and

Central Asia 7. species endemic to East Afghanistan Himalaya,

Tibet, SW China, NE India, Burma The largest taxa of group by are N. comprising which more are than widely in 200 the to taxa is

represented These North regions

species mainly

distributed. temperate Siberia, Many

distributed from , SE

Northern

hemisphere

Europe,

Africa,

America

Asia

Japan.

species are cosmopolitan and weedy elements which are spread by human activities and grazing animals. Some common weeds include Cynoglossum lanceolatum, Amaranthus spp., Stellaria media. Several species common in colline and sub-montane areas in Palas valley have palaeotropic distribution pattern. A large number of widespread grasses are included in this group, like Poa annua, Dichanthium annulatum, Setaria pumila, Apluda mutica, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dactylis glomerata, Digitaria spp., Heteropogon contortus, etc. Eurasian species include elements like Prunella

vulgaris, Solidago virga-aurea, Lotus corniculatus. Some species like Aster flaccidus common to Siberia and SW China reach NW Himalaya through Central Asia. Phleum alpinum common in alpine areas in Palas is a transPalearctic or Euro-Siberian species also found in mountains of South Chile. Some species common in alpine areas in Palas have a circumboreal distribution like Oxyria digyna, Trisetum spicatum, Sagina saginoides,

22

Circaea

alpina,

Geranium

sibiricum,

Epilobium

angustifolium, etc. Some Sino-Japanese elements represented in Palas valley are: Euonymus hamiltonianus, Geranium Spiranthes nepalensis, sinensis, Artemisia Dioscorea deltoidea,

japonica, A. roxburghiana. Mimulus nepalensis commonly grows in marshy areas along water channels in lower Palas, and was not known from Pakistan before. Wickstroemia canescens, a Himalayan species, ranges from South China through Himalaya to East Afghanistan, also reported from Sri Lanka. It is common in the under growth in dry montane forests in Palas. The Irano-Turanian elements are represented by Celtis caucasica, Daphne mucronata etc Pistacia khinjuk, an Irano-Turanian species, main range extends from Southeast Anatolia, to North Syria, Iran, to Northeast Afghanistan Pakistan (from Makran

Northern areas) also penetrating South Jordan, through Sinai to Northwest Saudi Arabia. Some examples of plants reaching N Africa and South Europe include Bunium persicum, Chenopodium foliosum, Ficus palmata, Debregeasea has a salicifolia etc. Fraxinus In its xanthoxyloides disjunct distribution.

western range it extends from Northwest Africa, Morroco to Algeria and then in the East it is found in East Afghanistan, Pakistan through Kashmir to Kumaon in Northwest India. It is an important component of the Quercus balloot-Olea ferruginea community in the colline zone.

23

Plants

endemic

in

Himalaya

and

neighboring

mountain

ranges to the East and West make up about 2/3rd of the flora of Palas. For most of the species (about 40%) either Northwest form in the Himalaya the western or Hindukush border. and Only in a the East small same Afghanistan mountains

proportion (about 9%) of species reach Central Asian Northwest almost percentage extend up to Burma and China in the East. These results show that Himalaya as such forms an easily distinguishable smaller units unit, and that may be subdivided is into a Northwest Himalaya certainly

distinct sub-unit of Himalaya with Palas valley a part it. The number of endemic species for each area is given below Areas Palas North Pakistan N Pakistan & Kashmir Pakistan, Kashmir, NW India E Afghanistan, Pakistan to NW India E Afghanistan, Pakistan to Nepal E Afghanistan, Pakistan to Bhutan SW China to Pakistan SW China to E Afghanistan Central Asia to NW India Pakistan to Bhutan Endemic taxa 2 5 26 43 40 33 32 30 25 26 74

Species endemic to Pakistan and Palas include seven taxa all one confined or two to the Northern in a mountains relatively of Pakistan. area. Three species are endemic to Palas valley found only in localities small Jasminum leptophyllum is found in the colline and sub montane and zone. Pseudomertensia zone. Rhamnella flavescens, gilgitica, are another endemic to the Palas valley, grows in the upper montane sub-alpine and Delphinium to palasianum Mattiastrum howardii confined

24

Palas and Gilgit. Rhamnella is a monotypic genus endemic to Pakistan. Rhamnella gilgitica is common in the submontane sclerophyllous zone, and Delphinium palasianum is found in open scree slopes in the montane region. Mattiastrum howardii grows on sub-alpine scree slopes in upper Palas valley. Ranunculus stewartii is endemic to Palas areas. and Baltistan found in sub-alpine is and alpine to Pseudomertensia sericophlla endemic

Pakistan (Palas, Nathia gali, Parachinar). Species Northwest confined India to North 69 Pakistan, species. 26 Kashmir species and are

include

confined to N Pakistan and Kashmir and 43 species extend to Northwest India and two species extend to Tibet. Ulmus villosa endemic to Pakistan, Kashmir and NW India, is a rare elm, not common in Palas, a small population grows in the colline zone around Paro area along MushaGa. Ziziphus oxyphylla, endemic to Pakistan, Kashmir and NW India, is infrequent in the colline zone in lower Palas valley. Impatiens edgeworthii, I. flemingii, I. thomsonii are common throughout Palas valley from the colline and montane to the sub-alpine zone. Berberis brandisiana endemic to N Pakistan and Kashmir is frequent in the montane zone. Hackelia Kashmir. macrophylla and Epimedium elatum are

distributed in moist montane forests of N Pakistan and

25

Delphinium denudatum and D. cashmerianum infrequent in coniferous forests in upper Palas are endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir. Androsace foliosa is a common species in the montane forest zone in Palas and is endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir. Smilax vaginata is a rare species in Palas confined to Pakistan, Kashmir and NW india. Alchemilla trollii, common in alpine & sub-alpine

meadows in Palas is restricted to Pakistan to Kashmir. Saussurea atkinsonii, a common species in alpine meadows in Palas is endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir. Rhododendron anthopogon var hypenanthum together with Salix flabellaris are the common species in alpine communities in Palas, and are restricted to Pakistan Kashmir and NW India, the latter species is also found in East Afghanistan. Bupleurum thomsonii and Vicatia wolffiana frequent in alpine and sub-alpine meadows in Palas, are confined to Pakistan, Kashmir and Ladakh. Cortia depressa, a true alpine species infrequent in Palas, is confined to Pakistan and Kashmir. Trachydium roylei common in Kobresia-Carex meadows in Palas is confined to Pakistan, Kashmir and NW India. Dubyaea oligocephala is found in the sub-alpine area in Palas and is endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir.

26

Codonopsis ovata is found in moist shady rock crevices in the alpine zone in Palas, it is endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir. Hierochloe laxa endemic to Pakistan and Kashmir is found in the alpine also zone found in in Palas, the not common. zone is Duthiea rare in bromoides alpine

Palas, restricted to Pakistan, Kashmir and NW India.

There are about 73 species which have different range restrictions within Himalaya. Arnebia benthamii, an infrequent species in the subalpine and alpine areas of Palas is confined to N Pakistan India up to C. Nepal. Aconitum laeve is a gregarious species in montane

coniferous forests but not very common in Palas. It is found from Pakistan to W Nepal. Allium humilis extend from Pakistan eastward up to W Nepal. It is common throughout the Palas valley in alpine areas. Arcyospermum primulifolium, a monotypic genus endemic to Himalaya, Pakistan is to distributed Bhutan, found throughout in rocky Himalaya moist and from shady

habitats in alpine areas in Palas. Staphylea emodi, a Himalayan species, ranges from Nepal through Kashmir to North Pakistan up to Safed Koh in East Afghanistan. It is a common shrub in the understory in broad-leaved forest in moist shady ravines.

27

Rhamnus purpurea a common shrub in the montane zone in forests and shrub communities in Palas, is restricted to the area from Central Nepal to Pakistan. Rheum webbianum a rare species in Palas, is confined to sub-alpine rocky slopes, distributed from Pakistan East to West Nepal Lindelofia grows in longiflora, montane and a common gregariously in Palas. species It is

alpine

areas

distributed from Pakistan to Nepal. Lactuca lassertiana is common throughout the alpine and sub-alpine meadows in Palas distributed all over Himalaya and Tibet. Trollius acaulis, uncommon in sub-alpine and alpine open places in Palas, is found from Pakistan to W. Nepal. Viburnum grandiflorum is found throughout Himalaya from Pakistan to Bhutan and also in Tibet. It is not as common in Palas as in outer Himalaya. Jurinea dolomiaea, found above 3500 m in the Kobresia community on Kunari slopes in Palas, is endemic to Himalaya found from Pakistan to Nepal

Plants which extend their distribution in the East to Southwest China, Burma and Tibet include 55 species. Prunus cornuta, a common tree in Montane forests and also on disturbed slopes occupied by shrubs is distributed from East Afghanistan throughout Himalaya and SW China.

28

Populus

ciliata,

Himalayan

species

also

found

in

Southwest China. It is a common tree in broad-leaved forests in Palas. Hackelia uncinata is found throughout Himalaya and also in West China. It is one of the commonest herbs in the broad-leaved forests and open slopes in Palas. Lonicera webbiana is a Himalayan species; it ranges from East Afghanistan to Burma and China (Tibet & Szechwan). It is common in the moist montane forests in the undergrowth in Palas valley. Isodon rugosus, common throughout the valley found from the colline to the sub-alpine zone in Palas is more common on dry slopes. It is distributed throughout Himalaya and East Afghanistan also found in SW China. Indigofera heterantha is one of the commonest shrubs in forests from and shrubberies, to throughout found throughout and the valley It to is East the colline the sub-alpine zone.

distributed

Himalaya

extends

Afghanistan also found in China. Dioscorea forests in deltoidea, Lower a frequent valley, climber is in montane from

Palas

distributed

Afghanistan through Himalaya to Indo-China and China. Fragaria nubicola common throughout the montane forest zone, extends through eastern Himalaya to West China. Geum elatum from common in alpine to and sub-alpine Himalaya, meadows also SE

extends Tibet.

Pakistan

Central

29

Rosa macrophylla, common in forest understory and in open shrub communities throughout Palas, is distributed from Afghanistan through Himalaya to China. Ribes alpestre and Ribes himalensis found throughout

Himalaya and also in China, are infrequent in subalpine and alpine areas throughout the Palas valley. Gaultheria trichophylla is a mat forming alpine species infrequent in Palas and is distributed from Pakistan through Himalaya to SW China.

Species extending to Hindukush (East Afghanistan) make a large proportion of taxa (105 species). It includes most of its woody taxa which make dominant components of major forest communities, including Pinus wallichiana, Cedrus deodara, Abies spectabilis. Olea ferruginea and Quercus balloot are the dominant species of the sclerophyllous community widely distributed in the colline zone all along MushaGa. Both species are distributed from Afghanistan to West Nepal in the East but they are more common in the Western part of their range. Ulmus wallichiana is the red data book species found from West Nepal to East Afghanistan, it is not common in the West of its range. It does not form pure forest but it is found as a scattered tree in broad-leaved forests accompanied by other broad leaf species. Aesculus indica is a West Himalayan species common in the moist broad-leaved forests as a scattered tree that reaches East Afghanistan and Hindukush. Acer caesium

30

extends from Central Nepal to East Afghanistan in the West. Pistacia chinensis ssp integrrima is found from West Nepal to East Afghanistan but it is more common in eastern Part of its range, infrequent in Palas. Sorbus lanata is frequently seen in upper montane forest and sub-alpine shrub communities, it ranges between Nepal and East Afghanistan. Syringa emodi, common in under story in montane forests in Palas, is distributed from Central Nepal to East Afghanistan. Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana ranges from Northwest India in the East to East Afghanistan in the West. It is gregarious and forms dense understory in some forest communities and sometimes forms almost pure dense shrubberies on disturbed slopes, more common in lower Palas valley in the montane zone. Jaeschkea oligosperma is distributed from Kashmir to

East Afghanistan and is common in alpine meadows and open shrub communities. Viburnum cotinifolium is a Himalayan species, it ranges from Bhutan to East Afghanistan in the West, common in forests and open moist slopes throughout Palas valley. Abelia triflora is a Himalayan species found from East Afghanistan to Central Himalaya but not common in East Afghanistan; it is rare in Palas valley seen only around Bar ser area. Paeonia emodi is infrequent in Palas valley. Its distribution ranges from West Nepal to East Afghanistan.

31

Rhododendron collettianum is a rare species found only in a small area in East Afghanistan (Nuristan and Paktia) and Chitral in Pakistan. It is seen only in a small area in lower Palas valley in sub-alpine scrub with Salix, Juniper spp on a moving scree slope along Muro river at 2700 m. Angelica glauca frequently found in the montane and subalpine areas in Palas is distributed from Afghanistan, Pakistan to NW India. Berberis Palas. aitchisonii, Delphinium endemic to Pakistan only in and East

Afghanistan, grows in the montane and sub-alpine zone in tenuipes found Afghanistan and Chitral in Pakistan, is a rare species in Palas valley. Paeonia emodi is found from East Afghanistan to West Nepal. Not common in Palas, grows gregariously on shady slopes or in open forests in the upper montane zone. Jaeschkea subalpine oligosperma, meadows in common Palas, is on open slopes to and East

restricted

Afghanistan, Pakistan and Kashmir. Asyneuma forests thomsonii and is endemic scrub to East Afghanistan on shady

Pakistan and Kashmir. It is frequent in upper montane sub-alpine communities aspects in Palas. Aquilegia fragrans, an infrequent species in upper Palas valley on dry rocky scree slopes is confined to the area from East Afghanistan to NW India.

32

Themeda grasses

anathera in Palas

and

Pennisetum

lanatum

are

common

valley,

distributed

from

Northwest

India to Afghanistan, the latter is also found in Tibet.

Plants which extend their distribution to Central Asian mountains through Hindukush in the West comprise about 49 taxa. Central Asia is used here in the sense of former Soviet Russian Botanists who call the mountainous part of Central Asia centralnyaya Aziya and lowland Aralo-Caspian Asia). Several species coming from Central Asia have the area the srednyaya Aziya (Middle

eastern limit in NW Himalaya. Cicer macranthum, common in upper Palas valley on rocky and stony slopes above 2700 m, is distributed from Pamir Alai, East Afghanistan to Pakistan. Codonopsis clematidea, found in the upper montane zone and sub-alpine meadows in Palas, is found from Central Asia, East Afghanistan to NW India. Chorispora sabulosa, a Central Asian species extends to NW India. Also common in moist rock crevices in alpine zone in Palas valley. Lindelofia anchusoides, extends its distribution from Central Asia through Afghanistan to NW India, it is common throughout the valley from the colline to the sub-alpine zone in monsoon season. Acer cappadocicum, a frequent tree in the broad-leaved montane forests in Palas is distributed from Central Asia, East Afghanistan through Himalaya up to Assam.

33

Acer

pentapomicum zone, is

common found

along from

Palas

river

in

the East

colline

Central

Asia,

Afghanistan up to NW India. Fraxinus raibocarpa, a rare species in Pakistan, was known from Hindukush area, its presence in Palas valley is an extension of range to NW Himalaya. Sorbaria tomentosa is a Central Asiatic species and

extends up to Nepal in the East through East Afghanistan and North Pakistan. It is a common shrub in Palas valley in moist places in forests and on open slopes. Ribes villosum is a high mountain species and ranges from Pamir Alai mountain to East Afghanistan, Pakistan to Kashmir. It is common in sub alpine scrub vegetation. Rosa webbiana and ranges West from Central North Asian mountains, through

Southwest

China,

Afghanistan

Pakistan and Kashmir up to Nepal. It is a common species in Palas valley in montane forests, open slopes and in mixed shrub communities in the sub-alpine zone. Sibbaldia cuneata, common throughout the alpine and

subalpine zone is a dominant element in several alpine communities and is distributed from Central Asia, SW China, Afghanistan through Pakistan to eastern Himalaya. Lonicera asperifolia is a Himalayan species frequent in Pakistan, Kashmir and NW India, it reaches Pamir in the West where it is rare. It is found in alpine scrub vegetation on dry rocky and stony slopes in Palas. Kobresia capillifolia is an important species in the alpine meadows and often a dominant species in the Kobresia-Carex communities in Palas. The Central Asian

34

species extends through Hindukush to West Himalaya in the East. 4.3 VEGETATION A preliminary survey of the plant communities of the Palas valley is presented in this study. The study is not complete yet and it deals only with general pattern of community distribution in the area. The description of plant communities Sharyal, is is mainly Magri, in based Shushe on the data Gutab, are collected from Khabkot and surrounding areas including Sherakot, communities relatively valleys. Three main vegetation zones can be identified in the valley. Communities in each zone are described below. 4.4 COLLINE / SUB-MONTANE ZONE 1000-2000 m Most of the areas along main Palas river (MushaGa) comes under colline/submontane zone ranging from 8502000 m. This zone is characterized by dry slopes and does not show any strong influence of monsoon rains in the summer months. Lower parts of the valley from 10002000 m are widely covered by evergreen sclerophyllous vegetation mainly dominated by Quercus balloot and Olea ferruginea. The trees appear stunted in growth, heavily lopped and reduced to scrub and form an open kind of vegetation. Some large patches of tall oak and olive trees forming almost closed canopy forest can be seen in certain areas especially Karuser, Pochmoru. Some oak Muro, bek, Kunari pass, Tikohsar. A great diversity of habitats and represented as the valley to the which undisturbed compared adjacent

35

trees

infested

with

parasitic

plant

Korthalsella

opuntia are not uncommon throughout the area. The vegetation is not very dense at any given point rather on several areas it is more open and scattered but it exhibits rich species diversity which may be attributed to a wide variety of niches provided by topographic diversity. A few scattered shrubby trees of Acacia modesta and Dalbergia sissoo are growing near Indus found river. Several species of deciduous forming trees are throughout the valley indistinct

communities along with oak and olive. In interior parts of the valley and on lower slopes Quercus balloot forms more or less pure stands which can be seen near Shukiser, Bar Ser and Bangah areas. Olea ferruginea is gradually replaced by Fraxinus xanthoxyloides on drier slopes with some scattered trees of Pistacia khinjuk. A typical community is described in detail at the end of the section. Acer pentapomicum is common throughout the valley up to Pichbela area along Palas river and its tributaries. Other notable deciduous trees are Ziziphus jujuba, Ficus palmata ssp virgata, Ulmus villosa, Celtis caucasica, Acer pentapomicum, species of Salix and Populus are common. The undergrowth varies from place to place depending on the topography, soil and moisture availability. Some of the common shrubs found throughout the area are Cotoneaster spp., Rhamnella gilgitica, Punica granatum, Maytenus royleanus, Caragana brevispina, Ziziphus oxyphylla,etc. Rhamnella gilgitica, a tall shrub with edible black fruits, previously known only from the type

36

locality in Gilgit, is fairly common in the lower zone from 1000-2500 m. The newly described species Jasminum leptophyllum a much branched shrubby plant with simple, narrow alternate leaves and strongly fragrant bright yellow flowers is growing in a narrow gorge along Sarteh Nala between Bar Ser and Bangah. A small population grows in association with other low growing shrubs like Cotoneaster xanthoxyloides, forest of oak. Common Vitis climbers Hedera is jaquemontii include common Vitis jaquemontii, the area, V. an spp, Abelia Isodon trifolia rugosus, etc., in Fraxinus thin, open

parvifolia,

nepalensis,

Jasminum

officinale.

throughout

extensive vine covering rocks and climbing trees, and has edible fruits relished by travelers. A variety of perennial and annual herbaceous plants form a thin ground layer in the colline and montane zone. Rumex hastatus a low growing bushy perennial with striking fruits is common especially on steep moving slopes. Mimulus nepalensis a small herbaceous plant with bright yellow flowers, recorded for the first time from Pakistan, is common in marshy and shady areas along water channels and small streams from 900-2000 m. Other frequent species include Nepeta spp., Dianthus spp., Delphinium swatense, Bupleurum subuniflorum, Fallopia

convolvulus, Rosularia adenotricha, etc. Bunium persicum, locally known as 'hayon', is an

economically important species common in the lower zone. The young seeds, used as flavoring spice/condiment, are collected from the wild plants and sold in the market. A

37

number of other species are used locally for medicinal purposes. Some open grassy patches are common throughout the area dominated by many species more common among these are Apluda Tripogon localities. common on mutica and Themeda anathera, Phragmites of Aristida Extensive Setaria karka cyanantha areas on spp. and are dry Phacelurus speciosus, Digitaria spp., Pennisetum spp., purpurascens. Tall steep bunches dry Calamagrostis pseudophragmites genellay grow in moist slopes.

slopes in the interior of the valley are covered by Cymbopogon jawarancusa. Grasses play an important role in this colline zone for grazing animals during winter when spp., higher Apluda pastures mutica, are covered by snow. Several species are important for fodder such as Bothriochloa Themeda anathera,. Eulaliopsis binata is extensively used for floor covering in the villages. Most of the grasses have a widespread world wide tropical and colline distribution. Near the settlements and villages some trees with edible fruits like Diospyros lotus, Morus nigra and Crataegus songarica, are occasionally growing along cultivated fields and near houses. Weedy and ruderal plants are common in and around cultivated areas, e.g. Cannabis sativa, spp., Urtica Bidens dioica, bidentata, Conyza canadensis, trionum, Amaranthus Commelina Hibiscus

benghalensis. At higher elevations deodar and blue pine trees are growing among the Quercus balloot forest above 2000 m above Shukiser and Sherakot Quercus floribunda appear

38

with some Quercus balloot and Cedrus deodara but it is not a dominant species in the area. 4.4.1 QUERCUS BALLOOT FOREST About about 26 species % of were the recorded area. Few in this community. trees of

Quercus balloot is the dominant species with a cover of 30-50 scattered Fraxinus xanthoxyloides and Acer pentapomicum are found in the community. Undergrowth is relatively thin and consists of few species of shrubs and a loose herbaceous layer covering less than 10 % of the area. The community is found on a moderate to steep slope below Shukiser village. The soil is dry, stony and compact. Grazing is common and stunted trees show signs of intense lopping. It also provides fuelwood to the nearby village. 4.5 MONTANE ZONE 2000-3000 m The montane zone includes some of the best preserved virgin forests in the Northwest Himalaya. Three main types of forests can be identified in this zone (see table 1). 1. Cedrus deodara forests on dry slopes distributed between 2000-2800 m 2. Abies-Picea forests on moist slopes found

between 2500-3200 m 3. Deciduous broad-leaved forests mainly found on valley floor from 2200-2800 m

39

The distribution pattern of these dominant communities mainly depends on the aspect of the slope and altitude. In some areas all species can be seen forming mixed patches. Some shrubs and herbaceous species are common throughout communities the montane like zone in all types of forest Rosa Viburnum grandiflorum,

macrophylla, Podophyllum hexandrum, Dryopteris ramosum, Hackelia macrophylla, Stellaria monosperma, Trillidium govanianum etc. Continuity frequently moving snow of the forests by along steep strips are slopes created is by

interrupted avalanche.

vertical These

strips

generally

occupied by various species of shrubs or herbs depending on the degree of disturbance caused by moving snow and accumulated soil. The composition and structure of these communities occasional changes broad-leaved vertically deciduous with trees increasing occupy these elevation. In some places dense growth of shrubs with strips where enough deep soil and moisture is available. Species of Salix and Lonicera with some small trees of Sorbus lanata, Prunus cornuta and Acer caesium with some Betula utilis generally occupy upper shady and moist slopes. At lower elevations Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana form dense shrubby growth with some other species like, Sorbaria tomentosa, Indigofera heterantha Acer cappadocicum, etc. 4.5.1 CEDRUS DEODARA FOREST Cedrus forest deodara forest adjoining the Quercus balloot and

generally

occupies

fairly

dry

southern

western slopes and sometimes forms pure stands in areas

40

like Sherakot and the ridge above Shukiser. Mature trees are more than 40 m tall. On exposed sunny slopes due to insufficient moisture in the soil shrubs do not form an important component of the vegetation. Some perennial herbs and annuals like Artemisia, Lespedeza, Pimpinella, Viola, Brachypodium sylvaticum, etc., form a loose herbaceous ground layer. Cool shady eastern and Northern slopes with some

moisture in soil favor the growth of Pinus wallichiana with relatively dense undergrowth. In some localities Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana form a dense understory with a reduced herbaceous layer in areas like Shiryal and ridge above Shukiser. A small population of Fraxinus raibocarpa is growing from 1800-2500 m in the CedrusPinus zone on a steep slope below Bosh in Khabkot valley. In some localities Quercus floribunda is found as

associated species above 2000 m. At lower altitudes from 1800-2200 m Quercus balloot and Q. floribunda grow side by side together with a few trees of Pinus wallichiana. Generally Cedrus patches Jasminum with few shrubs of and on like herbs shady form thin growth spp, in the

forest

but

areas

relatively

dense

shrubs

Cotoneaster

Indigofera are growing Common juncea,

heterantha, Abelia triflora, Lonicera quinquelocularis, humilis, Euonymus hamiltonianus on the herbaceous species Viola species include ground.

herbaceous nubicola,

Lespedeza

Leptorhabdos parviflora, Clinopodium umbrosum, Fragaria canescens, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dactylis glomerata, Piptatherum gracilis etc.

41

4.5.2 ABIES PINDROW-PICEA SMITHIANA FOREST These communities were studied in Khabkot valley, Shushe bek ridge, and forests around Muro pasture area. These forests are generally found on moist upper slopes facing North or East or along ridge crests from 2500-3000 m. The main species include Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana, occasionally in some areas Pinus wallichiana and Cedrus deodara are also growing in these forests. Some tall isolated trees of Taxus wallichiana reaching considerable height (c. 40 m) are occasionally found in these forests. It is difficult to distinguish between Abies pindrow and A. spectabilis in middle altitudes but trees growing at higher elevation (3000 m and above) are distinct in habit and shape from ones at lower elevations. These forest communities are some of the most impressive remaining forests of the Northwest Himalaya. Tall trees reaching a height of 40-60 m forming more or less close canopy forest are frequent especially in areas like Magri ridge and ridges along Muro river and Khabkot river from 2500-3100 m. The undergrowth is species rich as well as dense to moderate depending on the humus accumulation and slope inclination. understory, Several e.g., species of shrubs Rosa form the Viburnum spp., macrophylla,

Indigofera heterantha, Rubus irritans, Lonicera spp. A rich variety of herbaceous species appear just after the snow melt which include Primula macrophylla, spp, P. rosea, Trollius acaullis, Anemone Podophyllum

hexandrum, Paeonia emodi, and some fern species. The

42

early spring flora is later followed by monsoon summer flora forming more dense herbaceous layer with species like Pseudomertensia spp, Viola spp. , Impatiens spp., Sambucus vulgaris, wightiana, Senecio Lindelofia longiflora, Silene Aconitum chrysanthemoides

heterophyllum, A. laeve, Polemonium coeruleum, etc. Narrow strips between forest areas are common which are created by sliding snow avalanche which prevent growth of tall trees. These areas have rich growth of herbaceous plants and low growing shrubs. Common species in these areas are Lonicera spp., Salix spp., Viburnum spp., Rosa macrophylla Euonymus fimbriatus and Betula utilis. Dense shrubbries with L. are not uncommon at higher spp., elevations (above 2800 m) where stunted trees of Abies spectabilis Lonicera mixed Betula utilis, Ribes Salix obovata, heterophylla, himalensis,

Ribes villosum. In these disturbed habitats occasionally Pinus wallichiana trees occupy open spaces. In places where species soil grow is less stable mainly like tall laeve,

herbaceous wightiana,

gregariously

Sambucus

Impatiens

glandulifera,

Aconitum

Paeonia emodi, with other low growing herbs. Caltha alba is common along marshy areas around melting snow at higher elevations. Bergenia stracheyi is frequent on moist, shady rocky habitats and form large patches. Some fern species sometimes also form dense growth like Osmunda claytoniana forming almost pure community along Muro river above 2700 m. Most of the small summer villages are situated in these conifer forests. Graziers moving in these villages during summer depend on these forests for firewood and

43

logs for repair of their huts. These forests are the only source of fodder to grazing animals in early spring which move to higher alpine pasture later in the season. Some areas show signs of intense grazing with hardly anything left in the late monsoon season. The regeneration of the main tree species is also declining in these areas with a few young trees and some times no seedlings are observed. Some patches of dead old trees are scattered throughout the area. 4.5.3 BROAD-LEAVED DECIDUOUS FOREST This community was studied in Khabkot valley. Deciduous broad-leaved tree communities occupy the valley floor along streams from 2200-2800 m. In some places some times narrow strips of broad leaved trees ascends higher up along scree slopes where deeper soil and enough moisture is available. Typical examples of this kind of forests can be seen in other valleys like Sharyal and Muro river valleys. A variety of species form more or less close canopy forests including Juglans regia, Acer caesium, cornuta, percentage Generally indica, A. cappadocicum, wallichiana, cover regia, and vary Acer Aesculus Populus from spp, indica, ciliata, to up Prunus Alnus place. Aesculus patches Ulmus area Juglans

nitida, Sorbus lanata, etc. The dominant species and place make Ulmus wallichiana,

Alnus

nitida

dominated by one or two species covering about 30-40% of the area and accompanied by other species thus giving the community a mosaic kind of appearance. The community is multi-layered with trees of different heights which give it a dense appearance. At higher elevations along the valley floor Betula utilis becomes dominant in the community replacing Juglans regia, Ulmus wallichiana and

44

Aesculus

indica

which

are

more

common

at

lower

elevations. Height of the main tree species varies from 8-20 m approximately. On several locations the ground is filled with large rocks and tree big boulders. showed Seeds severe collected from different species

insect attack. Ulmus wallichiana generally grows as a scattered tree in its distribution range. It is included in the list of endangered species in IUCN red data book. In Khabkot valley it forms the second largest known population, and sufficient regeneration is observed in the area. Several mature are trees attaining profusely The trees a height most of of about the of 20 seeds m are fall scattered in broad-leaved forest from 2000-2600 m. Seeds produced but show prematurely. attack. Root bark is collected from Juglans regia trees on signs heavy insect

commercial scale. For this purpose two year old roots of mature trees are dug out and bark is removed and dried for sale. Several mature trees are dying due to excessive damage. The layer shrubs undergrowth and in also varies from place to place of

depending on the density of canopy and depth of humus underground these Syringa substrate. communities emodi. Common include species H. species Viburnum in the

cotonifolium, V. gradiflorum, Staphelia emodi, Sorbaria tomentosa, forest Herbaceous macrophylla, P. include Hackelia uncinata,

Podophyllum hexandrum, Trillidium govanianum, Asparagus filicinus, Polygonatum multiflorum, geminiflorum, Epipactis veratrifolia etc.

45

In some localities, especially on shady places, much branched shrubby with form the of Taxus wallichiana trees grows in association broad-leaved with little

herbaceous under growth. On some shady sites thick layer of humus is accumulated. Dense herbaceous growth is characteristic on the valley floor at the edge of broad-leaved forests especially along stream banks. at Viola Various biflora, species localities making are: up these communities wightiana, Impatiens stewartii, Clematis etc. Broad-leaved forest are subjected to heavy grazing by passing herds which make their way through these forests. Young roots of Juglans regia are extracted on commercial scale. This unchecked practice is not only killing several mature trees but it is also disturbing the balance of the entire community. There is little under growth in those areas where the soil is regularly disturbed by grazing animals preventing the establishment of herbs or shrubs. 4.5.4 GRAZED AVALANCHE MEADOW The community is dominated by Isodon rugosus covering about 30% of the area. Other accompanying shrubs include Rosa webbiana, Cotoneaster is rare spp., in the Jasminum community. humile, Common Euphorbia wallichiana which cover about 10% of the area. Qeurcus floribunda different Sambucus coeruleum, Corydalis connata, Campanula

Polemonium sulcata, Clematis

glandulifera, Thalictrum montana,

Impatiens elegans,

Senecio

chrysanthemoides,

latifolia, Cypripedium cordigerum, Lilium polyphyllum,

46

herbs

include

Thymus

linearis, Nepeta

Valeriana connata,

stracheyi, Fragaria

Androsace

rotundifolia,

nubicola, Bistorta amplexicaulis, Hypericum perforatum, Jaeschkea oligosperma growing on about 5% of the area. Remaining species grow in about 3% area. Among grasses Chrysopogon gryllus ssp echinulatus is the codominant species in the community occupying about 30% of the area. Piptatherum munroi is covering about 5% of the area. Verbascum thapsus is a rare herb in the community. A common community on open slopes ranging from moderate to steep inclination about 20o to 30o. In general the slope is rocky and stony with varying degrees of soil depth and moisture contents. The community is two layered dominated by shrubs growing to a height of about 50 cm forming open kind of canopy. In the ground layer the tussock forming grass Chrysopogon gryllus ssp echinulatus grows up to 40 cm high, develops on open spaces between shrubs. The herb layer is about 10 cm high in average. Several communities of shrubby species can be observed in the area: Rosa webbiana, Sorbaria, tomentosa, Cotoneaster spp. are more frequent and sometimes form almost pure patches. Some scattered young plants of Pinus wallichiana grow among these shrubby patches which characteristically fill up open places created by natural or anthropogenic disturbances. The area is subjected to heavy grazing pressure by goats and cattle during the summer months. The vegetation cover varies from place to place depending on the degree of grazing pressure. Most of the shrubs appear stunted in growth due to heavy grazing in the area.

47

4.5.5 AVALANCHE MEADOW MODERATELY GRAZED A mixed community of low growing shrubs like Rosa

webbiana, Spiraea vaccinifolia, Euphorbia wallichiana, Cotoneaster spp., etc. covering about 20% of the area. Viburnum cotinifolium, Indigofera heterantha, Asparagus filicinus cover about 5% of the area. Bistorta amplexicaulis is a common herb, covering almost 20% of the area along with the common sedge Carex kashmirensis. The remaining species cover about 3% of the area. Species rich community growing on rocky steep slopes with a varying degree of soil depth and soil moisture. A typical moisture avalanche level. In swept area with changing the species avalanche diversity and vegetation cover depending on soil and general throughout field dominance of different shrub species also varies in correlation with grazing pressure (goat grazing from Ilobek). Spiraea and Cotoneaster show signs of heavy grazing. The shrub layer is about 70 cm high and the underlying herb layer is about 20cm high. Shrubs in general show stunted growth and are scattered in the community leaving open spaces in between for herbs and grasses. 4.5.6 AVALANCHE SHRUB COMMUNITY DOMINATED BY RHAMNUSVIBURNUM The shrub layer in this community forms a more or less close canopy. The community is dominated by Rhamnus purpureus which occupies about 50% of the area. The codominant species are Viburnum cotinifolium and Prunus cornuta covering about 20% of the area. Viburnum grandiflorum, Syringa emodi, Indigofera heterantha, Rosa

48

macrophylla, Berberis aitchisonii, Lonicera microphylla, Salix sp., Abies pindrow are found in about 10% of the area. Other shrubs like Cotoneaster sp., Taxus wallichiana, Pinus wallichiana, Picea smithiana, Betula utilis forms a component of less than 5%. A large number of herbaceous species form the lower layer. Dominant among these are Bistorta amplexicaulis, and Fragaria nubicola which cover about 10% of the area. Geranium coverage webbianum community. This is a two-layered species rich close canopy forming shrub community. Shrub layer have a average height of up to 3m. Several species mainly of herbs form the ground layer with average height of up to 20 cm growing under the shade of shrubs. This kind of community is characteristic of steep to moderate slopes with an inclination from 20o to 30o and heavy snow accumulation during winter. The dominance of different species of shrubs varies all along the slope possibly depending on the soil, rocky and stony substrate, movement of snow on the slope, and grazing pressure. The composition of species also changes with increasing elevations. Betula utilis gradually increase and dominate the ccommunity with increasing elevation. These slopes are regularly used for grazing during summer. wallichianum, of and about 5%. Origanum Remaining hexandrum vulgare, species are Androsace are in less the foliosa, Aquilegia pubiflora, Viola canescence have a frequent and have a coverage of less than 5%. Rheum Podophyllum rare

49

4.6 SUB-ALPINE AND ALPINE ZONE 2800-4500 M It is difficult to draw a definite line between sub alpine and alpine zone. Generally sub alpine dwarf shrub communities and Betula forest start within upper montane forest communities from 2800 m and extend up to the zone of alpine meadows up to 3500 m. At higher elevations, above 3300 m vast areas are covered by dense meadows of Kobresia spp. which are occasionally interrupted by tall herbaceous communities of species of Swertia, Pedicularis, Potentilla, Nepeta, Primula, etc. Typical sub-alpine plants include Sibbaldia cuneata,

Bistorta affine which carpet the area in large patches with some deep soil. On moist rocky outcrops Rhodiola quadrifida, Pedicularis punctata, Saxifraga asarifolia, S. stenophylla, Burgenia stracheyi are dominant. A great variety of communities is found in the alpine and sub-alpine zone which occupy different habitats. Some representative communities are described below. 4.6.1 MIXED SHRUB COMMUNITY Several species of shrubs occupy disturbed habitats

created by sliding snow which prevent the establishment of tall tree species. Mixed shrub communities are also typical on the base of the ridges at higher elevations in the valley especially around Kunari village in Khabkot and Muro river valley. The growth is especially dense along the edges of avalanche scree slopes. More common associated species include Salix denticulata, S. disperma, obovata, S. etc. daphnoides, The Lonicera species heterophylla associated L. with herbaceous

these communities include Primula macrophylla, P. rosea,

50

Ranunculus munroanus, R. hirtellus, Carex kashmirensis, Sibbaldia cunueata, etc. 4.6.2 BETULA UTILIS FOREST Characteristically Betula utilis communities are found at the edge of snow avalanche slopes from 2500-3500 m but some thickets of Betula can be seen as low as 1800 m in Khabkot valley growing in the deciduous broad-leaved forests. Betula high as With increase in elevation Acer are on valley floor Prunus shape, broad-leaved deciduous trees are gradually replaced by utilis. 2900 m. Occasionally Tree trunks caesium, typical in cornuta, Sorbus lanata are found among Betula stands as growing horizontally near the ground bending upwards due to action of moving snow. Sometimes they form almost pure stands with thin undergrowth. In other localities a variety of other Common include shrub Ribes species of forms shrubs Rosa mixed forming shrubby mixed vegetation. vegetation species

villosa,

macrophylla,

Skimmea anquetilia, Syringa emodi, Lonicera spp, Salix spp, Viburnum spp., etc. Herbaceous undergrowth is dense and varied in places with deeper soil and enough moisture. 4.6.3 DWARF JUNIPER-RHODODENDRON SCRUB COMMUNITY The Betula community is gradually replaced by dwarf

shrub communities of Juniperus communis, J. squamata and Rhododendron anthopogon growing up to 1 m high. In some localities Lonicera myrtillis and L. obovata are not uncommon. Dense thickets of prostrate shrubs of Juniper cover large areas. In between empty places, cushion-like growth of Cassiope fastigiata, Androsace mucronifolia

51

and carpet forming species of Gaultheria trichophylla, Salix flabellaris and Rhododendron anthopogon ssp hypenanthum cover more rocky ground. Large dense patches of Bistorta affine are common throughout the valley in sub-alpine and alpine areas. 4.6.4 SUB-ALPINE PASTURE SIBBALDIA CUNEATA COMMUNITY A total of 19 species were recorded in the community. The dominant species is Sibbaldia cuneata which covers about 60% of the total area. The codominant species are Thymus linearis, and Agrostis pilosula which contribute more than 10% of the area. The remaining species have cover less than 5% of the area. In general the area is characterized by more or less flat land and undulating gentle slopes. This is a man made pasture fir The land trees is area created are by removing found used from on for lower trees. Some by scattered slopes. livestock still summer surrounding grazing villages.

regularly

moved

during

Generally the community gives the impression of very low growing prostrate kind of herbaceous plants with average height of 2-5 cm. The ground cover is relatively high showing fast growth rate, the soil is rich with sufficient moisture. Several streams coming from melting snow on surrounding slopes produce some marshy patches in the depressions. The area is under and heavy grazing Some pressure large Some by goats, of of

sheep, around

cows small

buffaloes.

patches thickets

Pteridium aquilinum and Cirsium wallichii are expanding village settlements. Viburnum grandiflorum are scattered throughout the area.

52

Night camping bare sites of live stock are surrounded by vigorously growing pure communities of Rumex nepalensis and Polygonum paronychioides. Some scattered stunted and lopped trees of Abies grow on surrounding slopes. 4.6.5 KOBRESIA COMMUNITY with moderate grazing About 19 species are recorded from this community. The dominant species is Kobresia royleana which covers about 50% of the total area. The codominant species are Leontopodium himalayanum, Sibbaldia cuneata, Phlomis

bracteosa, Potentilla cathaclinis, which cover up to 20% of the total area. Other species have up to 5% coverage. The area is sub-alpine meadow with gentle wind swept slopes and pronounced snow gradation. The community is mainly composed of low growing herbaceous species with rossette leaves. Growth is fairly dense and ground cover is continuous with for creeping dense species. It The soil holds to be enough moisture growth. appears

relatively species rich community with moderate grazing. The grazing starts in late June when people move from lower winter villages to alpine pastures. In surrounding area on scree slopes patches of Juniperus communis , J. squamata, Salix sp., Lonicera microphylla, dwarf Pinus wallichiana are found. In snowbed depressions Swertia speciosa-Sibbaldia cuneata community is dominant on shaddy aspects. 4.6.6 RUMEX NEPALENSIS COMMUNITY - nitrogen rich site Rumex nepalensis is dominant in the community covering more than 60% of the area. Senecio chrysanthemoides, Sibbaldia cuneata and Poa supina cover about 10% of the

53

area. The remaining species form together a component of less than 5%. The area is more or less flat spot on the top of the ridge. It is the night camping site of livestock, the soil is rich in nitrogen. It is a typical community of disturbed habitats often seen around cattle pens near human settlements. Most of the species are weedy which occupy the bare areas created by trampling and resting of grazing animals Polygonum paronychioides, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Veronica Sagina saginoides, sp., Epilobium etc., hirsutum, biloba, Taraxacum predominantly

herbaceous species show luxuriant growth and are up to 30 cm tall or more. 4.6.7 SNOW BED FORB COMMUNITY Sibbaldia cuneata, Saussurea atkinsonii and Geum elatum are dominant in the community covering 40-50% of the area. Phlomis bracteosa up to and 5% Bistorta of the affine are codominant covering area. Kobresia

royleana and Carex pseudobicolor are character species of the community covering about 10% of the area. The remaining species cover less than 5% of the community area. The community is characteristic of high altitude alpine meadows found on gentle to steep slopes. Soil is rich with sufficient moisture contents. Tall growing species grow to a height of up to 20cm. Most of the species are low growing with basal rossets of leaf like Geum elatum and Saussurea atkinsonii cover the ground. There is moderate grazing in the area showing sufficient regeneration by the plants. Mainly creeping and

54

spreading species form more or less continuous cover on the ground. In surrounding areas some thickets of shrubby Juniperus squamata, Juniperus communis,

Rhododendron sp. form scrub vegetation on the margins of meados. On moist shaddy rocks Rhodiola quadrifida is common. 4.6.8 KOBRESIA COMMUNITY WITH MANY FORBS The dominant species in this community is Kobresia

capillifolia covering about 30% of the area. Saussurea atkinsonii, Potentilla monanthes, Rhodiola quadrifida, Swertia speciosa are codominant species covering about 20% of the area. Achillea millaefolium, nubigena, Androsace Tanacetum mucronifolia, Anaphalis

dolichophyllum form up to 10% of the covered area. The remaining species are found on less than 5% of the area. This is a characteristic alpine community at higher

altitudes on moderate to steep slopes. Vegetation is developed on morain deposits of small rocks and gravel of about 0.20 cm in diameter. The humus layer is relatively shallow and shows effects of cryoturbation. Tall herbs grow to an average height of 15 cm. Most of the species are low growing covering the ground with basal leaves or prostrate habit. Close to the releve Kobresia capillifolia forms a dense strip 1.5-4 m wide, a prominent feature at the edge of ridge along a deep ravine. 4.6.9 ROCK SCREE VEGETATION WITH DRABA TRINERVA. The dominant species is Draba trinerva covering less than 20% of the area. Rhodiola quadrifida and Androsace mucronifolia are the character species growing on about

55

10% of the area. The remaining species have less than 5% of the cover area. This is relatively species poor community characteristic of exposed rocky drier areas. About 12 species were recorded in the area. Plants grow in rock crevices where they find some soil and moisture. The slope is very steep characterized by big boulders and rocks with much fine rocky material in between. Heavy snow accumulates which melts slowly in summer and water infiltrates the rocks so that very little moisture is available near the surface for plant growth. The accumulated snow moves along with large rocks making the slope very unstable. From a distance but close the slope appear of to the be without any a

plants

examination

area

reveals

number of species forming cushions or clumps growing in rock crevices where some soil and moisture is available. A number of species grow at different elevations throughout the slope. Thawing snow patches provide water during summer. Some stunted shrubs of Lonicera semenovii grow near the top of the slope. Some the tall slope species growing of Carex are the prominent rocks. 4.6.10 TALL FORB SPECIES RICH COMMUNITY WITH LNDELOFIA DOMINATING This relatively species rich community is dominated by Lindelofia longiflora which covers about 50% of the area. Euphorbia wallichiana and Aconitum heterophyllum are codominant occupying about 20% of the area. Senecio throughout between

56

chrysanthemoides, denticulata,

Fragaria cuneata,

nubicola, Lotus

Primula

Sibbaldia

corniculatus,

Origanum vulgare, are other frequently occurring species which cover about 5% to 10% of the area. The remaining species occupy less than 5% of the area. A total of 35 species sedges is also recorded form a from the community. Grasses of and the considerable component

community with Carex spp cover of about 20% and Agrostis stolonifera covering about 10% of the area. Tall herb layer up to 40 cm tall is dominant in the community. Low growing tufted species and creeping and trailing species form the ground layer. The community is typically found on moderate to steep slopes ranging from 20o-35o and characterized The rich soil, humus deeper by sufficient moisture support snow and high accumulation. comparatively productivity. 4.6.11 RUMEX-SAMBUCUS COMMUNITY OF DISTURBED HABITATS The community is characterized by Rumex nepalensis which covers about 60% of the area. The other codominant species is Sambucus wightiana which covers up to 20% of the area. The remaining species form less than 10%. The community is predominantly composed of tall forbs which grow around bare areas where local live stock camp during summer season. form a Luxuriantly two-layered growing community tall with herbaceous species sufficient layer

Sambucus wightiana forming the tall layer up to 70 cm or more. The second layer is up to 30 cm tall, occupied by Rumex nepalensis and Senecio chrysanthemoides. Grasses are insignificant in this kind of communities and are

57

confined to the ground level. Generally, the species which do not have grazing preference occupy the area. Soil is deep and rich in nitrogen.

58

5. CONCLUSION
Geographically Palas valley is situated in the dry inner ranges of Northwest Himalaya. The present study is the first botanical investigation in the valley ever done. The results reveal that the area is rich in plant biodiversity. At present the vegetation shows minimum human impact. Most parts of all vegetation zones have plant communities in almost natural state. A checklist of the plants contain about 600 species of flowering plants and pteridophytes. Three new species, Jasminum leptophyllum R.A.Rafiq, Delphinium palasianum R.A.Rafiq and Pseudomertensia flavescens R.A.Rafiq were discovered during the present investigation. Seven species endemic to Pakistan are found in Palas. Some rare species endemic to Pakistan collected during the present type study include only. the Some Rhamnella other gilgitica species have and are Pseudomertensia sericophylla which were known from the locality from rare collected populations. Most species are found in a wide range of altitude from lower montane to alpine zone. The chorological spectrum of species shows that about 2/3 of the species have restricted distribution in adjoining mountain ranges. Only about 1/3 of the species have a wideranging distribution pattern. There are 2 species endemic to Palas and 5 species are endemic to Palas and North Pakistan. About 26 species found in Palas are confined to North Pakistan and valley which limited

distribution range and are known from small scattered

59

Kashmir, 43 species extend from Pakistan to NW India. 40 species Pakistan species are and are the distributed Kashmir between to East from NW in There East Afghanistan, 33 and species Nepal. 48 North are 33 and India. East are

distributed throughout

Afghanistan

distributed Himalaya.

Afghanistan about

species

distributed from Central Asia to Himalaya and half of the species have their easternmost boundaries up to NW India. About 55 species are distributed between SW China and East Afghanistan, 30 species have the westernmost limits in Pakistan, the remaining 23 species extend up to East Afghanistan. The phytosociological study shows that a great variety of habitats is found in different vegetation zones which host some unique species of plants. Most plant communities are regenerating naturally. All vegetation zones have some characteristic communities and species which deserve protection. A remarkable variety of communities is found in the sub-alpine and alpine zones due to the relatively large area available above 3000 m. One new species was collected from each vegetation zone. Endemics percentage and of restricted species range with species are range also of distributed in all vegetation zones. However, a high restricted distribution is found in alpine areas because of the great variety of habitats available. This study will provide baseline information for future research and sustainable development planning for the area.

60

6. RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 CONSERVATION PRIORITIES-APPROACHES AND MECHANISMS 1. Designate Palas as a protected area Based on the results of present study, Palas appears to merit protected status as an outstanding example of West Himalayan vegetation. dry scrub forest, temperate This protected status forest, sub-alpine should extend to all four main vegetation zones birchwood and alpine zone - and over as great an area of the valley as possible. 2. Strengthen community natural resource management Given that Palas is not state property, protected status must be secured with local participation, rather than imposed from above. property regimes, which Most forest and ecologically

pasture resources in Palas are managed under common include sophisticated rotational use of the resource through the practice of transhumance. institutions regimes and remain strong. should practices Traditional tribal These be institutions, to strengthened

ensure ecologically sustainable use, and to serve as a pilot for government-community partnership in the management of protected areas in Pakistan. 3. Consider nomination of Palas as Biosphere Reserve Palas, as one of the least modified examples of

typical West Himalayan vegetation in Pakistan, would serve as a valuable benchmark site for monitoring of global environmental change. Consideration should

61

therefore Programme,

be

given

to

nomination should

of be

Palas made

as

Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO Man and Biosphere and provision for monitoring of vegetation change in Palas. 4. Address key threats to each major vegetation zone Safeguard firewood dry scrub forest and against commercial or

exploitation

road

construction,

where common property regimes are breaking down. Safeguard commercial temperate forest and against institute excessive community

exploitation

controls against excessive local use. Rehabilitate gulleying. 5. Introduce species specific conservation measures Introduce against measures to safeguard collection Juglans of regia degraded alpine pastures and check

unsustainable

root-bark

('dandasa'). Safeguard Dioscorea CITES listed species Sassurea costus against

('menyal') and Podophyllum hexandrum ('shangoy') and deltoidea ('chalyon') unsustainable exploitation. Safeguard Taxus against possible threat of

exploitation (for taxol). 6. Prevent introduction of exotic species Exotic species are being introduced into District Kohistan by the Forest Department under the various programmes. The Forest Department should adopt a

62

policy not to plant any exotic species in Palas, which would threaten the biodiversity value of the area. (An exception is on-farm fruit trees, for which there appears to be significant potential for introduction.) 7. Land utilization for development work Construction of roads and landuse for agricultural purposes must protect plant communities with rare and endemic species. For example Jasminum leptophyllum (endemic to Palas) and Rhamnella gilgitica (endemic to N Pakistan)are found in lower slopes along main Palas river where road is under construction. 8. Settelment of ownership rights and other political disputes Due to disputes over ownership rights on some pasture lands between neighboring vallies and disputes over forest revenueamong different tribes is necessarry to remove pressure on forest and pasture areas. 6.2 FURTHER RESEARCH PRIORITIES The present study is based on data collected from a part of the Palas valley. Other parts of the valley needed to be explored to complete the study which include Plant collection and community study from upper Palas valley. Collection of spring flora from lower Palas valley. Collect information on plants of socioeconomic value.

63

6.3 PAPERS TO BE PREPARED FOR PUBLICATIONS Some rare plants of the area phytogeographic affinities of Palas valley. Plants of socio-economic value

7. REFERENCES
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51.Richardson, I. B. K. (1978): Endemic Taxa and the Taxonomist. In Street, H. E. (Ed.) Essays in Plant Taxonomy. pp 245-262. Academic Press. 52.Royle, J. F. (1839-40): Illustrations of the botany and other branches of the natural history of the Himalayan mountains and of the flora of the Cashmere. 2 vols. W. N. Allen, London. 53.Schickhoff, U. (1995) Himalayan Forest Cover Changes in Historical Perspective: A case Study In The Kaghan Valley in Northern Pakistan. Mountain Research and Development, 15(1):3-18 54.Shmida, A. & Burgess, T. L. (1988). Plant growth form strategies and vegetation types in arid environments. In: plant form and vegetation structure (ed. by M. J. A. Werger, P.J.M. van der Art, H.J. During and T.J.A. Verhoeven), pp. 211-241. SPB Academic Publishing, The Hague. 55.Solomon, A. M., Shugart, H. H. (1993):Vegetation

dynamics and global change. Chapman & Hall. Newyork 56.Stebbins, 34:1-35. 57.Stebbins, G. L. (1980): Rarity of Plant Species. A synthetic view point. Rhodora 82, 829:77-86 58.Stewart, R. R. (1972): An annotated catalogue of the vascular Plants of West Pakistan and Kashmir. Karachi Uni Herb., Karachi. G. L. & Major, J. 1965: Endemism and

Speciation in the Californiadet Flora. Ecol. Monogr.

70

59.Subedi, M.N. (1992): Usage of Eastern and Western Himalaya in relation to floristic study. Newsl. Him. Bot. 12:17-21. 60.Wendelbo, (Eds): P. (1971): life Some distributional West Asia, patterns 29-41.

within Flora Iranica Area in Davis, P. H. et al. Plant of South Edinburgh. 61.Zohary, Middle Verlag. M (1973): Vol. Geobotanical 1&2. Foundations Gustav of The

East.

Stuttgart:

Fischer

71

8. ANNEX
8.1 CHECKLIST OF PLANTS OF PALAS VALLEY

72

8.2 PHYTOGEOGRAPHY

8.3 ECOLOGY LOCALITIES OF TABLE -.1

DATE 2/7 2/7 2/7 2/7 3/7 3/7 3/7 3/7 3/7 3/7 3/7 4/7 4/7 4/7 4/7 4/7 4/7 5/7 REL. 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 LOCALITY Sherakot pass Shawalay Shawalay Shawalay Sharyal Sharyal Burchhin Burchhin Magri Magri Magri-Muru Above Muru Beyond Muru Above Khawari Above Khawari Above Khawari Shushe bek Shushe bek COMMUNITY Cedrus-Pinus Mix conifer Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Pinus Mix shrub Mix shrub Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Pinus Picea-Cedrus Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies Picea-Abies ALT. (m) 2340 2300 2300 2200 2000 2350 2550 2570 2650 2800 2800 2800 2800 2900 2900 2800 3050 3050 E NW NE E W NW S W N N N NW N W NW E W W EXP. INCL. () 12 15 15 25 15 25 30 30 25 22 20 22 30 30 25 27 30 35
O

AREA (m2) 400 400 400 400 300 225 400 400 400 225 400 400 200 200 200 400 200 400

5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 5/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 6/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 7/7 8/7 8/7 8/7 8/7

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Above Khabkot Above Khabkot Above Khabkot Above Khabkot Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Left Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Ilobek-Bosh Ilobek-Bosh Ilobek-Bosh Ilobek-Bosh

Picea-Abies Salix-shrubs Salix-shrubs Abies-Pinus Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Broad-leaved Betula-Shrub Betula-Shrub Salix-Shrub Salix-Shrub Salix-Shrub Salix-Shrub Betula-Shrub Betula-Shrub Betula-Shrub Betula-Shrub Mix Shrub Que. flor Cedrus-Q. flo Cedrus-Q. flo

3000 3000 3000 3000 2470 2480 2510 2520 2470 2470 2480 2520 2550 2550 2550 2700 3000 3000 3050 2950 2950 2950 2850 2850 2300 2400 2400 2400

E E N N W W NW W NW NE E NE NE E NE E E W NW W W SW NW W SW S SW SW

35 35 25 35 30 25 25 20 25 20 30 35 35 25 15 30 20 25 25 30 30 25 20 35 20 20 22 30

400 400 200 200 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 225 100 200 100 400 400 400 400 400 400 400

141

8/7 8/7 8/7 8/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 9/7 10/7 10/7 10/7 10/7 10/7 10/7 10/7 1/8 1/8 1/8 2/8 2/8 2/8

47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74

Near Bosh Bosh Bosh Above Bar ser Above Bar ser Shuki Ser Shuki Ser Shuki Ser Shuki Ser Near Bosh Near Bosh Near Bosh Near Bosh Khabkot Ridge Khabkot Ridge Khabkot left Khabkot left Khabkot left Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Khabkot Right Muru Muru Muru Above Gutab Above Gutab Above Gutab

Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus forest Cedrus forest Cedrus-Q. ball Cedrus-Q. ball Cedrus-Q. ball Cedrus-Q. ball Cedrus forest Cedrus forest Cedrus forest Cedrus-Pinus Cedrus-Q. flo Broad-leaved Betula mix for Broad leaved Broad leaved Quer balloot Quer balloot Quer balloot Sibbaldia Sibbaldia Sibbaldia Kobresia Rumex Sibbaldia

2450 2450 2450 2280 2060 1980 1870 1920 2000 2060 2100 2200 2200 2330 2340 2300 2280 2250 2130 1900 1800 1700 2800 2800 2800 3670 3670 3670

W NW NE E W N E NW W W NW W N W SW NE E SE SW W W N N N N E E

35 15 20 35 35 25 35 35 25 15 20 20 25 35 35 10 15 10 20 20 20 20 10 12 10 23 -30

400 400 400 400 400 400 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 400 400 400 400 400 225 225 225 225 9 9 9 16 16 16

142

3/8 3/8 4/8 4/8 4/8 5/8 5/8 5/8 6/8 6/8

75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84

Kunari Kunari Ilobek Ilobek Ilobek Ilobek Tikohsar Tikohsar Bosh Bosh

Kobresia Draba Mix Shrub Mix Shrub Mix Shrub Betula Lindelofia Sambucus Cedrus forest Cedrus forest

4100 4100 2500 2600 2650 2740 3150 3200 2440 2440

E W W W W W SW N NE N

30 35 27 30 30 30 30 5 20 20

9 9 15 15 400 200 25 16 300 400

8.4 PLANTS OF SOCIO ECONOMIC VALUE

Local name Latin Name Altitudinal range (m) 900-3500 1600-2700 1500-4200 2400-3500 900-2200 2400-4300 2400-3500 up to 2500 weed Hk, NWH CA, HK, NWH Distribution Status in Palas V V V F V C F C Habit Parts used Utilization

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

aoon ashano azano badbatin bani banke beon bhang

Viburnum cotinifolium Aesculus indica Artemisia brevifolia. Salix spp. Quercus baloot Polygonum paronychioides Salix Spp. Cannabis sativa

HM HK, HM HK, HM

T T S S T S T S

fruit seed leaf wood leaf leaf/seed leaf leaf

food medicine medicine fuel fodder medicine fodder, fuel medicine

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1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

bhareet burbur buti chain chalyon chin chodan choee chokibeiyon choko chotyal chukni chur danon dindhasa geroli ghanari ghandli

Prunus cornuta Anthriscus nemorosa Geum elatum Acer cappadocicum Dioscorea deltoidea Acer caesium Taxus wallichiana Pinus wallichiana Celtis caucasica Aconogonum alpinum Rheum webbianum Jurinea dolomiaea Angelica glauca Punica granatum Juglans regia Quercus baloot Amaranthus hybridus Sambucus wightianum

2300-3200 2400-3500 2700-4300 2000-3000 2200-3000 2000-3000 2200-3000 1800-3300 900-2200 1500-3000 2400-4300 3200-4300 2000-4000 700-2700 1000-2800 900-2200 1200-2000 2400-4000

HK, HM, China Widespread HM CA, HK, HM HK, HM, China HK, HM Widespread HK, HM MED TNH HM HM HK, HM MED TNH HK, HM Weed HK, HM

V F V V V V V C F F T T V F V V C C

T H H T C T T T S S H H H T T T H S

wood ? leaf leaf root wood fruit/bark wood leaf leaf root root root fruit/bark rootbark, seed leaf root

firewood, fodder, medicine ? medicine, vegetable fodder medicine firewood medicine, food firewood, timber, torchwood medicine ? medicine medicine, chewingum, mouth freshner to attract honeybees food, medicine medicine, cosmetic medicine vegetable medicine

144

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

gorte guchi gup gurtu hargoli hatoi hayon hobobal isperki jacho jau jhojh jomi juglote, jhul kalbeer kao karal karhi

Sorbus lanata Morchella esculenta Senecio chrysanthemoides Sorbus lanata Ribes orientale Pteridum aquilinum Bunium persicum Rumex spp Thymus linearis Cirsium falconeri Artemisia scoparia Betula utilis Urtica dioica Viburnum grandiflorum Sorbus microphylla Olea ferruginea Picea smithiana Sorbaria tomentosa

2300-3400 3000-3500 1400-4000 2300-3400 2200-4000 1800-3200 1000-2000 800-2000 2500-3500 2700-3500 800-4000 2000-4000 900-3500 1500-3000

HK, HM

V T

T F H T S H H S H H H T H T T T T H

fruit fruit leaves fruit fruit leaf seed root/leaf seed, leaf root plant bark/leaf leaf/root fruit, wood root leaf wood leaf

food food fodder food food food spices fodder medicine, tea food medicine paper, medicine, fodder, fuel, tinder medicine, vegetable food, fuel medicine medicine firewood, timber ?

HM, China HK, HM HK, HM, China TNH NH HK, HM, China HK, HM HM NH HM, China TNH HM HM

C V R C V C V C C V C V R C C C

500-2500 2400-3200 1200-3200

HK, HM HK,HM IT, SHM

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1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

kasodar kasti kathan kaur kaur palao kaymat gul khakhai khako kikloh mukbursa koindaru kondroi kono korat lagan lilyo loh loni magrath

Fraxinus xanthoxyloides Indigofera heterantha Wickstroemia canescens Cardamine macrophylla Seseli libanotis Taraxacum sp. Juglans regia Pistacia chinensis Chenopodium foliosum Valeriana straceyi Impatiens glandulifera. Chenopodium album Bergenia ciliata Melia azidarich Viola spp. Galium aparine Cotoneaster bacillaris Vitis jaquemontii

900-2000 600-3300 1800-3200 2200-3000 1800-4000 800-4000 1000-2800 500-2200 2500-3800 1200-2800 2400-4000 800-4000 900-2800 800-1200 2000-4000 800-3600 1800-3000 900-2400

HK, HM HK, HM, China HK, HM, China HM, China TNH Weed TNH HK, HM TNH HK, HM HM Weed HK, HM

C C F F F F V V F V F C V

T S S H H H T T H H H H H T

leaf root ? plant ? root nuts fruit/bark ? ? seed leaf root leaf flower plant fruit fruit

medicine medicine ? vegetable ? medicine food food, medicine ? medicine food vegetable medicine ? medicine medicine food food

F Weed HK, HM HM C V V

H H S C

146

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

makoth malkaloh malphatoi mamekh mamere maniri minyal mukbursah mushkbala muskoro namero nik palon paloojh pashay pashkar pashot peechli

Rhamnella gilgitica Bistorta affine Pedicularis spp. Paeonia emodi Corydalis govaniana Aconitum laeve. Saussuria costus Fragaria nubicola Valeriana jatamansi Astragalus subumbellatus Skimmea anquetilia Jasminum leptohyllum Allium humile Cedrus deodara Myosotis alpestris Lonicera caucasica Parrotiopsis jaquemontiana Sedum ewersii

1000-2500 2500-4300 2500-4300 2200-3000 2400-4000 2700-4000 2000-3300 1800-3300 1400-3400 1500-3000 2400-4000 1500-2000 3000-4300 1800-3000 2800-4300 2000-4000 1500-2500 2300-4000

Endemic HK, HM

T C C

S S H H H H H H H S S S H T H S S H

leaf ? ? root root root root fruit root root leaf leaf leaf wood ? ? wood flower

vegetable ? ? medicine medicine medicine medicine food medicine medicine medicine fumigant for fleas food firewood, timber ? ? firewood medicine

HK, HM HM NWH NWH HM, China HK, HM HK, NWH HK,HM Endemic HM HK, HM PA HM HK, NWH IT

V V V V C V V V T V C F F V V

147

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

phagoi phebel pulpulak punar rain rain rangsalu raon ratanjokh rath ratrati sezen shangoy shegay sheteel shugloo shukhan shwansh

Ficus palmata Mentha royleana Aconogonon alpinum Inula royleana Abies pindrow Bistorta amplexicaulis Lonicera myrtillus Achillea millefolium Geranium wallichianum Vitis jaquemontii Arnebia benthamii Ziziphus jujuba Podophyllum hexandrum Rosa webbiana Crataegus songarica Berberis brandisiana Aesculus indica Filipendula vestita

800-2500 1000-3800 1500-3000 2700-4000 1800-3500 1800-4300 2500-4000 1800-4000 2000-4000 900-2400 2700-3900 900-2000 2400-4000 1800-4300 1500-2700 2400-4000 1600-2700 2100-3300 TNH TNH NWH HK, HM HK, HM, China HK, HM TNH HK, HM HM HM MED, IM, SHM HK, HM, China HM CA, HK, HM NWH HK, HM HK, HM

F C F R C V V F V V V F V V F V V V

T H S H T H S H H S H T H S S S T H

fruit leaf leaf ? wood leaf, root fruit ? root fruit root rootbark root flower fruit seed/root wood, fruit ?

food medicine fish poison ? firewood, vegetable, medicine food ? medicine food medicine, dye medicine medicine medicine food medicine timber, fuel, medicine medicine

148

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.

sumbul tali taran thoktokoe titrin tondel trepath tubukoi urni yumpi zalzalo zarotsal zekeeni

Adiantum venustum Dalbergia sissoo Rosa brunonii Caltha alba Euphorbia wallichii Rhamnella gilgitica Saussurea candolleana Jasminum humile Corylus jacquemontii Napeta sp Isodon rugosa Malva parviflora Rubus niveus

1800-2200 800 900-2500 2500-4300 2500-3500 1000-2500 2400-4000 1500-3000 2400-2700 2500-3500 900-3000 800-2400 900-3000

HK, HM,China

V F

H T S S S T H S T H S H S

leaf bark fruit leaf root fruit ? ? seed leaf leaf leaf fruit

medicine ? food medicine medicine food ? ? medicine medicine medicine vegetable food

HM, China HM HK, HM, China Endemic HM TNH HM

F V F V F F V F

HK,HM,China MED

F C F

ABBREVIATIONS USED: CA:Central Asia; HK: Hindukush; HM: Himalayan; IM: Indo-Malayan; IT: Irano-turanian; MED: Mediterrannean NWH: Northwestern Himalayan; PA: Palaearctic; SHM:Sino-Himalayan; TNH:Temperate Northern Hemisphere V : vulnerable; T : Threatened; R : Rare ; C : Common : F : frequent H:Herb; S:Shrub; T:Tree; C:Climber

149