A. Moran, M. Prabhakar1, N. Raj, Kapoor1, M. Mehta and H. Kapoor
Abstract
The purpose of the current study, conducted in Rohru Forest Division between the year 2019 and 2020, was to examine the phytosociological and natural regeneration status of Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don at various altitudinal ranges and aspects in the Dodra Kwar and Khashdhar Forest Range (Rohru Forest Division). Three elevation zones were used to categorize the study area: E1=3000-3200 m, E2=3200-3400 m and E3=above 3400 m in both the northern and southern aspects. The phytosociological characteristics for trees and shrubs in each elevation and aspect were studied by establishing three sample plots, each measuring 0.1 hectare for trees, and five sub-quadrates, each measuring 5 m x 5 m for shrubs. There were 18 different plant species in both forest ranges. The density and basal area of trees, and shrubs were highest on the northern aspect as compared to the southern aspect. Maximum regeneration success (52.78%) was found for Rhododendron campanulatum at elevations of 3200-3400 m on northern aspect in the Khashdhar forest range.