Ecology of chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall) in dry temperate forests of North West Himalaya

摘要

Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana Wall.) is an important ecological and economic species having a restricted distribution in India. It is very much restricted in dry temperate region of North-Western Himalaya. There are large numbers of biotic and abiotic factors affecting it and lack of regeneration in this pine may result in the extinction of the species. Young/middle age classes are scarce or entirely lacking, the mature and over mature trees predominate in its natural zones. Phytosociological studyshows the high endemism of the Pinus gerardiana species in its natural zone. Overall more than 60% of the area was covered by this species and rest by other species. Therefore, the productivity and sustainability of chilgoza pine has to be ensured.