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Biodiversity Pattern of Dhorpatan Huntin PDF
Biodiversity Pattern of Dhorpatan Huntin PDF
SUBMITTED TO:
GHANTAGHAR, KATHMANDU
SUBMITTED BY:
June, 2017
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In performing our assignment, we had to take the help and guidance of some
respected persons, who deserve our greatest gratitude. The completion of this
assignment gives us much pleasure. We would like to show our gratitude towards
Mr. Subash Duwadi for giving us a good guidance for assignment throughout
numerous consultations as a supervisor. We would also like to expand our deepest
gratitude to all those who have directly and indirectly guided us in this
assignment.
In addition, a thank to Mr. Chandra Mani Aryal and Mrs. Bina Ghimire , who
introduced us to the methodology of work and whose passion for the underlying
structures had lasting effect . We also thank the Tribhuwan University for consent
to include copyrighted pictures as a part of our paper.
Many people, especially our classmate and team members itself have made
valuable suggestions on this proposal which gave us an inspiration to improve
assignment. We thank all people for their help directly and indirectly to complete
our assignment.
ACRONYMS
The study was carried out at Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, one and only one
hunting reserve of Nepal which lies in the western region of Nepal covering an
area of 1325 sq km including three districts: Rukum (60%), Baglung (26%0 and
Myagdi (14%).The study was carried out with the motive of understanding
biodiversity pattern of the reserve. These rangeland area is mostly dominated by
the Cynodons in semi disturbed area, Cyprus in the undisturbed and undisturbed
area. Likewise in other protected areas people hereby are also dependent on the
reserve for the resources with the awareness of conservation. There is somewhat
conflict between human and wildlife as the animals enter the agricultural field and
destroy their seasonal crops. The salpakhe forest of the hunting reserve had well
representation of pinus, rhododendron and juniper sapling but the seedling number
is less.The class resemble reverse J shaped, more number of tree and sapling
indicate that the forest is suistanable. Mainly rhododendron species were found at
higher altitude with scattered forest of juniper indica and abies spectabilis at the
range of 2000-3000m. The reserve supports several endangered, endemic and
medicinal species where major threats like unsuistanable management of land,
over exploitation of resources and over grazing may arise.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.1 Background
1.2 Rationale
1.3 Objectives
1.4 Limitations
1.5 Study Area
4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 Background
4.1.2 Rationale
4.1.3 Objectives
4.1.4 Limitations
4.2 Literature Review
4.3 Materials and Methods
4.3.1 Study Area
4.3.2 Methods
4.4 Results
4.5 Discussions
4.6 Conclusions
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 Background
5.1.2 Rationale
5.1.3 Objectives
5.1.4 Limitations
5.2 Literature Review
5.3 Materials and Methods
5.3.1 Study Area
5.3.2 Methods
5.4 Results
5.5 Discussions
5.6 Conclusions
6.5 Discussions
6.6 Conclusions
References
42
Annexes
44
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background:
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is one and only hunting reserve of Nepal which was
established in 1983. It lies in the western part of Nepal covering an area of 1,325
sq km (512square mile) including three districts: Rukum (60%), Baglung (26%)
and Myagdi (14%) between 2000-7246m. There are total 53 villages in this
hunting reserve including 3000 households. This area is suitable habitat for many
flora and fauna species. The reserve is characterized by alpine, sub alpine and high
temperate vegetation. Common plant species include fir Abies sectibilis), blue
pine (Pinus wallichina), birch (Betula utilis), rhododendron (Rhododendron spp),
hemlock (Tsuga domusa), oak (Quercus semicarpifolia), juniper (Juniperus
indica), spruce (Picea smithiana), maple (Acer caesium), juglans (Jugalns regia),
tauxs (Taxus bacata) and chirpine (pinus roxburghii) (Aryal and Kreigenhofe,
2009). The reserve is one of the prime habitat for red panda and also blue sheep
(Pseudois nayaur) leopard (Panthera paradus), goral (Naemorhedus goral) serow
(Capricornis is), Himalayan thar (Hemitragus jemlachicus), Himalayan black
bear (Urcus thibetans), barking deer (Munticus muntjak), wild boar (Sus scorfa),
rhesus macaque (Macaca radiata) and wolf (Canis lupus) (Aryal and Kreigenhofe,
2009). Pheasants and partridges are common and their viable population in the
reserve permits controlled hunting. Endangered animals in the reserve include
musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster), wolf (Canis lupus), cheer pheasant (Catrus
wallachia) and danphe (Lopophorus impegians) (Panthi, 2009).
1
going to hunt may pay maximum 13 lakhes for blue sheep and 8 lakhes for jharal.
According to the the reserve management committee, 26 blue sheep and 11 jharal
are allowed for hunting in one season. Hunting permission is only provided those
who have license and they only can hunt the mature male. Hunting of young and
pregnant female is not allowed. Especially foreign tourist come to this hunting
reserve and they take horn and skin as a gift to their country after hunting animals.
This hunting reserve is protected by Nepal Army to control from illegal hunting
and harvesting. Hanumandyoj gulma started to protect this hunting reserve since
Baishak 30, 2073.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is only one hunting reserve of Nepal, which lies in the
rural area of Baglung, Rukum and Myagdi district. Buffer zone area is not
declared yet so this reserve is pressured from the human activities in many ways.
Poaching and illegal harvesting of natural resources is common in this area.
Grazing of domestic animal in the forest and rangeland is so common.
Increasing the grazing of domestic animal and other human activities affect
the distribution pattern of species.
Due to the lack of buffer zone declaration, local people depends more on the
natural resources which affect the growth pattern of trees and regeneration
pattern of forest.
Many household lies inside the reserve and many wild animal found in the
reserve, which create the conflict between park and local people.
This reserve lies in high altitude and which shows the biodiversity gradient.
2
The outcome of this study is expected to help policy makers, planners and
concerned authorities to plan and manage the park in order to enhance
mutual benefits to park and local people without affecting the aim of
biodiversity conservation.
3
1.5 Study Area :
4
CHAPTER 2
2.1.1 Background :
5
grassland ecosystem, (Deng et al., 2014) reported that plant species richness
increased with decreasing grazing intensity. The author observed the highest plant
species richness at light and moderate grazing intensities. Random grazing patterns
can lead to spatial heterogeneity in light availability, soil nutrient availability and
vegetation community dynamics. This can reduce plant competition for
environmental resources because the vegetation exists in patches (Bakker et al.,
2003). At the within-patch scale, light grazing intensity can promote plant
diversity, but heavy grazing intensity can lead to the exclusion of the species
intolerant to grazing (palatable), resulting in an increase in grazing tolerant plant
species (unpalatable) (Watt & Gibson, 1988; Calvert, 2001). In North America,
light browsing resulted in suppression of dominant shrubs and maintenance of
shrub diversity (Pekin et al., 2014). According to Mligo (2006) and Stern et al.
(2002), livestock grazing leads to changes in floristic composition and structure
within grazed areas. Most studies have documented the impacts of livestock
grazing on vegetation in woodlands and grasslands (Hardy et al., 1999; Mligo
2006; Sun et al. 2011; Cingolani et al., 2013; Deng et al. 2014; Koerner & Collins
2014). There has been little effort to cover knowledge gaps regarding the impacts
of livestock grazing on plant species composition in afromontane forests (Reed &
Clokie, 2000), one of which is the montane forest of Mount Kilimanjaro. The
northern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro are inhabited by pastoral communities,
particularly in the villages of Kamwanga, Irkaswa, Kitendeni and Lerangwa in the
Longido District. These villages had been sharing land with wildlife in the former
Longido Game Controlled Area. However, major land-use changes have occurred
between 1952 and 2001 in the area (Noe, 2003). These changes have been
associated with increasing land area under cultivation and establishment of
settlements, especially on the lower slopes of the northern side of Mount
Kilimanjaro. For example, in 1952 there was only one village in this area (the
Kamwanga village); however, by 2001 three more villages, Lerangw’a, Irkaswa
and Kitendeni, had been established in 1975, 1982 and 2001 respectively (Noe,
6
2003). Concomitant to the influx of pastoralists to the area, there was also a
migration of non-pastoral people to the area in the past three decades, which has
contributed to an increase in the amount of land used for cultivation at the expense
of pastoral land (Muruthi & Frohardt, 2000). Because of the decrease in grazing
land for pastoralists, the Maasai community has changed from pastoralism to
agropastoralism. The general practices of the aforementioned activities depend on
seasonal rains; however, there has been lack of short rains that are usually received
between November and January in recent years.
The aim of the study is to know about the difference in species composition in
disturbed, undisturbed and semi disturbed area of DHR. Some parts of DHR is
species, loss of species and effect on species due to antropogenic disturbance and
General objectives :
The general objective of the study is to note down the number of species found in
the study area.
7
Specific objectives :
However there were some limitations which compelled this study to narrow down
the objectives. Some limitation of this study are :
The study was carried out in Bobang of baglung district only as it was not
possible to carry out the study in larger area due to time and financial
constraints.
Only three days for the study was too short.
8
Disturbance traits allow light demanding species to grow faster. Recent studies
have shown that functional diversity shade tolerant species to survive better
(Poorter and Bongers, 2006). Thus a trait based on disturbance traits from species
level to community level can balance intensity (Picklen and White, 1985) and
improve our understanding of how plant community recovery time. For instance,
disturbance can cause change in respond to environmental change and in turn
affect ecosystem process (Sadling et al., 2008).
The eight years field experiment showed that disturbance neither affected species
diversity nor functional diversity but it affect the functional composition of
community. At high disturbance intensity, the community changed towards fast
growing species with more acquisitive traits. These changes are driven by
recruitment rather than by selective mortality of species with certain traits value or
by disturbance induced increases in growth rate of survivors that have specific trait
values (Lourens et al., 2012).
9
2.3 Materials and methods :
Dhorpatan hunting reserve is study area located in the Baglung, Rukum and
Myagdi District of western Nepal. It is the only one hunting reserve of Nepal and
it covers an area of 1,325 km2. In altitude it ranges from 2,850 to 5,500m at
latitude 28o29’62’’N and longitude 83o62’84’’E.
2.3.2 Methods :
a. Observation:
The plant species along the disturbed, semi disturbed and undisturbed area around
the reserve were observed and their numbers were noted down.
10
b. Numerical Analysis(Statistical Analysis)
Un-disturbed Area
11
10 Paraqualiza - - - - - - - - 7 5
11 Bukeful - - - - - - - - 2 4
C. Field methods :
First we took a plot of 100 by 100m. We divided the plot into 100 different parts
of 10/10m. We selected 10 different plots from these 100 plots by random
sampling method. Again we divided the 10/10m plot into 100 different parts of
1m/1m. We selected 10 different plot of 1m/1m by random sampling method. The
species were indentified and their number were counted in the plot of 1/1m. we
continued the same process in intermediate area (airport construction site),
undisturbed and disturbed area (periphery of community hotel).
2.4 Results:
From the Table no 1 of the above figure cynodons were found to be more than
others. So the semi- disturbed area is dominated mostly by the cynodons species.
The area also covers more number of trifolium and graminae species than any
other species over there.
12
From the table no 2 of the above figureCyprus were found to be more than others.
So the undisturbed were more dominant by the Cyprus species. Similarly
saxifrage, premula and potenlia were also found comparatively more than other
species in this area.
And in the table no 3 of the above figure again cyperus species were found to be
more than patente and trifolium species. So the disturbed area was dominated by
the Cyperus species.
2.5 Discussions :
Hence from the table above we can conclude that this rangeland is mostly
dominated by the Cynodons in the semi disturbed area, Cyprus in the undisturbed
and disturbed area. We have conducted field study in the three sites namely airport
areas disturbed area, large compounded area as undisturbed site and open field as a
disturbed area. In the disturbed area mostly horses, buffalo were grazing. Due to
the grazing of the livestock in this open field the no of species were found to be
lower than other two areas. In the semi-disturbed area (airport construction site)
the number of species were intermediate i.e lower than undisturbed and greater
than disturbed area. Only few domestic animals graze there due to the barrier and
some domestic animals could enter into it and graze, so it was assumed as semi
disturbed area. In the undisturbed area near army barrack no any or very few
livestock could enter into it for grazing. So disturbance was seen to be minimum in
this area.
2.6 Conclusions
Hence, species composition along disturbance gradient was found in the different
field area of Dh orpatan Hunting Reserve.
13
CHAPTER 3
3.1 Introduction
3.1.1 Background:
Wildlife conservation had been quite successful from the point of view of habitat
of several species (Mishra et al., 1992). Active conservation of habitat has
increased wildlife population within protected area which start causing damage
outside the park. The relation between park and people is imbalanced when the
park animal damage outside and disturb the adjacent settlement. Damage of
agricultural crops, human harassment, injuries and death and livestock depradation
are the common cause of this imbalance relationship (Sharma 1996, Jnawali 1989
and Shrestha 1994).
Beside the problem of grazing and crop damage there are some other problems
too, which create park people imbalance. This include fodder problem, collection
of fuel wood, timber, illegal hunting inside the reserve etc. Long term success of
national park and proctected area require a shift in management philosophy that
combine resources management with a sensitive umderstanding of the social and
economic needs of the local people (Sharma, 1990).
The establishment of park and reserve without provision to stabilize the cattle
population or to provide fodder and grazing facilities and to resolve the incident
conflicts between the park management and the local people. As more forest and
grassland outside the park were lost such conflicts became more pronounced
(Sharma and Shaw 1993).
14
3.1.2 Rationale of the study:
Although the problem of park people relation is an old issue, it is getting critical
every year. This is not the problem of only our country but a global one.The
existimg provision and arrangement deprive surrounding people of reserve from
the use uf forest product which they had been using traditionally early before the
reserve were created. With reference to the minimal research carried out on park
people relation at DHR. This study is focused on how local people use available
resources and their attitude towards the park management. It also focus on the
damage caused by wildlife to livestocks, crops and animals inside the park.
1. To study the consumption pattern and altidue of local people towards the
available resources.
2. To study about human wildlife confict by analyzing crop raiding and direct
human impact by animals.
15
3.2 Literature review:
Survey in January 1999, commissioned by WWf and led by Dr. John Max Kinon
also revealed some other topic of concern to wilflife migration throughout Bhutan.
First, forest that were once contiguous from west to east are now being isolated
into large fragments as forest is cleared within the main river valleys that run north
to south through Bhutan. Reason for clearing native forest include a desire for
more grazing pasture at the higher elevation, farms and plantation at lower
elevation. Mackinnons study finally affirmed the need to develop a green buffer of
forest along Bhutan Southern border with India.
Upreti (1985) found crop damage as a cause of conflict. In 1995, he found that
rhino as highly crop raider to wheat and paddy, the chittal on paddy and maize,
the wild boar raid on potato.
16
3.3.2 Materials and Method:
a. Research design :
This study was spouse descriptive research design. It will endeavore to describe
the socio economic and available resources of the area along with park people
relation with the statistical analysis of crop raided, livestock loss and effect on
human by wildlife research was carried out by preparing questionnaires based on
socio economic condition and park people relation.
b. Sample design :
c. Field method :
1) Household survey :-
2) Interview
Interview was conducted for collecting first hand data with household members.
3) Presentation
The information was also obtained from the presentation held in Army Camp
Office by Army personnels and conservation authorities.
17
3.4 Results:
Mostly lower caste people live in this area of our study, whose livelihood
completely depends on farming, rearing livestock and labour work. However ,
some of the people arriving from other parts of districts are imvolved in hotel,
business and army. The educational status is found low due to which they give
priority to large family mostly with more than five members. The total agricultural
production in this area is sufficient only for about 3-6 months. People are allowed
to collect NTFP from the forest as per their requirements. They collect forest
product such as grass, wood, kharsung, seprang, bhoospat, mushroom, honey,
jatmasi, dhupi, salla, kutkui, amilo, panchaule, ligen and dale ghas from Deurali
khola, Dhorpatan forest and uttar ganga community forest.
The collected products are used for food, fodder, cooking, firewood, medicine etc.
People can extract timber with permission. Animal like badel boar, hyena, tiger,
rate, jackal, snow leopard come to the agricultural land and destroy crops like
potato, peas, corn, maize, fapar, cabbage, green legumes etc. But no any
compensation measure is provided to the victim so they are fully unsatisfied.
Human injury or death due to animal attack is found rare in this area. People are
satisfied with the accessibility of resources for their daily fulfillment from the
reserve despite some conflict arises which is usual in such protected area.
3.5 Discussions:
Being most of the people uneducated in this area they are found completely
dependent on agriculture and labour work for livelihood. The agricultural
production in their own land is hardly possible to sustain life for year around due
to the production of seasonal crops in this land area. People are afraid of collecting
NTFP from the forest after the placement of Nepal Army camp in DHR. They
think that there is no any need of Army in this area as they are themselves aware
18
of conserving forest resources. They are completely dependent on forest wood for
kitchen and other purpose as there is no supply of electricity and alternative source
of energys. The issue of compensation measure should be addressed properly for
the development of positive attitude towards resources and administration too.
3.6 Conclusion:
Likewise in other protected area, people are dependent on the reserve either for
food, fodder, timber or usable resources. There is no any change in the pattern of
consumption of forest resources after the placement of Nepal Army too. People are
aware of proper utilization and protection of the resources available in the reserve.
Most of the people are unkown about an atempt to declare buffer zone in this area
but they they are aware of conserving natural resources. It is necessary to declare
buffer zone and community forest in this area so that the local people will be
benefited and in turn they will be more serious about the consumption pattern of
available resources. Appropriate compensation measure is needed for the victims
of wildlife attack otherwise they will develop negative attitude and will lead
towards ruining fioral and faunal diversity of this area. Overall, there is likely park
people relation with the understanding of importance essence of only one of the
hunting reserve of Nepal.
19
CHAPTER IV
4.1 Introduction:
4.1.1 Background:
Forest regeneration is the act of renewing tree cover by establishing young trees
naturally or artificially-generally, promptly after the previous stand or forest has
been removed (IPCC report 2007). The method, species, and density are chosen to
meet the goal of the landowner (IPCC report 2007). Forest regeneration includes
practices such as changes in tree plant density through human-assisted natural
regeneration, enrichment planting, reduced grazing of forested savannas and
changes in tree provenances/genetics or tree species (IPCC report 2007). "Human-
assisted natural regeneration" means establishment of a forest age class from
natural seeding or sprouting after harvesting through selection cutting, shelter (or
seed-tree) harvest, soil preparation, or restricting the size of a clear-cut stand to
secure natural regeneration from surrounding trees. "Enrichment planting" means
increasing the planting density (i.e., the numbers of plants per hectare) in an
already growing forest stand (IPCC report 2007). Diameter at breast height, DBH,
is a standard method of expressing the diameter of the trunk or bole of a standing
tree. DBH is one of the most common dendrometric measurements. Tree trunks
are measured at the height of an adult's breast. However, this is defined differently
in different countries and situations. In continental Europe, the UK, and Canada
the diameter is measured at 1.3 metres above ground. (Google, 2012).
20
4.1.2 Rationale of the study:
21
4.2 Literature review:
22
distribution is the result of substantial changes in the state and pattern of forest
regeneration, suggesting that the forest is in trouble (Ghimire et al., 2010).
The study area for this research was carried out in Salpakha forest of DHR. It is
located at the elevation of 2950m, latitude 28˚ 29̍ 823 ̍ N, longitude 83˚ 01̍
047 ̍ E to 3083m, latitude 28˚ 29̍ 88̍ N, longitude 083˚ 03̍ 24̍ E.
23
4.3.2 Study Method:
a. Research Design:
Plot 2: At a distance of 50 meter another 8.32 meter radius plot is established and
DBH and number of trees are counted in the 8.32 m radius.
Plot3: Taking the same centre of plot 2, plot 3 is established with the radius of 1 m
.
24
c. Field methods:
Based on the relative proportion of adults, saplings and seedlings, the regeneration
was grouped into four categories namely good, fair, poor and no regeneration. The
regeneration was considered as ‘good’ when seedling >sapling >adult. In case
where seedling >sapling <_ adult, it was termed as ‘fair’ regeneration. The
regeneration was ‘poor’ when trees survived in sapling stage and no seedlings
were observed. In case when tree were observed in adult stage only with no
seedlings and saplings, it was termed as ‘no’ regeneration.
d. Numerical Analysis:
Total number of seedlings= 67
DBH Class
120
100
80
60
Number of Trees
40
20
0
10-20 cm 20-30 cm 30-40 cm 40-80 cm Seedlings Saplings
25
Density of seedling, sapling and trees:
Area for sapling study is of radius 1 m so its area is 3.14 square meter, so is the
area for seeding study.There were 22 plots so total area becomes 69.08 square
meter.
= Population/Area
=26/69.06
=Population/Area
=2/69.06
Area for study of trees and poles is of radius 8.92 m so its area is 250.06 square
meter. There were 22 plots hence Total area becomes 22* 250.06=5501.32 sq
meter
=Population/Area
= 189/5501.32
26
3.4 Results:
DBH CLASS
120
100
80
60
Number of Trees
40
20
0
10-20 cm 20-30 cm 30-40 cm 40-80 cm
From the systematic field survey we found that the number of trees having DBH
10-20cm is 108, trees with DBH between 30-40 cm is 32. Number of Trees with
DBH between 20-30 cm is 40 and number of tress with more than 40 cm DBH is
9.It is found that there is more number of trees with DBH 10-20 cm and number
are decreasing with increasing DBH. Hence there is sustainable pattern of
regeneration. Number of cut trees is found to be 26 with highest 45.6 cm diameter
at breast height.
The mean density of seedlings per hectare is much higher than that of saplings and
trees. The occurrence of a high number of seedlings on the forest floor indicates
that the forest is regenerating. This is also evident from the reversed J-shaped
distribution which is an ideal state for the regenerating forests.
27
Mean density (per hector)
4000
3500
3000
2500
2000 Mean density (per
1500 hector)
1000
500
0
seedling sapling tree
4.5 Discussions:
Forest regeneration depends upon the growth pattern of tree. The number of
sapling, seedling and tree affect the regeneration pattern of forest. If the sapling
number is more than tree and the seedling which indicate that forest is sustainable.
To become a sustainable forest, the graphical representation should be reverse J-
shape. If the graphical representation be bell shaped, which indicate the forest is
unsustainable. Sustainable forest means the forest which is in a linear pattern, the
probability of extinction due to the growth pattern is less and the forest can be
existing in long term of time.
4.6 Conclusions:
The salpakhe forest has more sapling number than the tree. The forest had well
representation of pinus, rhododendron and juniper sapling but the seedling number
is less. The number of seedling was less due to the grazing, lopping and litter
collection. Size class resembles reverse J-shaped, more number of sapling and tree
indicates that the forest is sustain
28
CHAPTER 5
5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 Background
29
tropical to the subalpine and alpine regions. This affects physiographical,
topographical and environ- mental factors that influence the floristic composition
and diversity of that area (Ellu and Obua, 2005). Diver sity of life-forms i.e.,
species composition usually changes with change in altitude and remains one or
two life-forms at extreme altitudes (Pavon, et al., 2000). Floristic diversity varies
with life-forms. Bhattarai and Vetaas (2003) studied the floristic composition and
richness along the subtropical altitudinal gradient from east Nepal, Streade et
al.(2002) from Chitwan Natioanl Park including the natural and community for-
est, Subedi and Shakya (1993) in Oak Forest of Rasuwa district.
Altitude and climate are the two main factors that determine the prominent
vegetation zones of the mountains that are the most remarkable land forms on
earth surface (Malik 2014). The area of mountains where closed canopy forests
end and give way to open vegetation is known as the alpine treeline ecotone.
‘Alpine’ is commonly used in a broad sense for the treeless areas above a low-
temperature determined treeline in the high reaches of mountains. The alpines are
characterized by scanty rainfall, high wind velocity, low temperature, high
intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, blizzards and snow storms (Nautiyal et al.,
2004). The plants of this zone show some adaptations to these conditions and are
generally dwarfed, stunted, woolly or spiny, and develop a mosaic patch of
different forms (Walker et al. 1994). They possess an early growth initiation with a
short vegetative span ranging from several days to a few months (Bowman &
Damm 2002). The community as a whole usually exhibits seasonal fluctuations
and its structure and composition are strongly influenced by the extent to which
periodic phenomena in the individuals are adjusted to each other (Kershaw 1973).
The distribution of plant species within alpine areas is often regulated by climate
or climate-influenced ecological factors. Therefore they are considered particularly
sensitive to the influence of predicted climatic change (Pauli et al., 2007). As a
result, alpine ecosystems are likely to show the effects of climate change earlier
30
and more clearly than some other ecosystems (Grabherr 2000). Therefore, long
term monitoring programs such as the Global Observation Research Initiative in
Alpine Environments (GLORIA) have been established worldwide in different
continents (www.gloria.ac.at).
Although it is well known that the species richness and diversity decrease with
altitude, there is not much evidence to support this fact. Our study is mainly
focused on the species composition along altitudinal gradient in dhorpatan area.
Dhorpatan hunting reserve is in the altitudinal range from 2850m to 5500m. There
is large variation of species richness within this altitudinal range. Main aim of our
study is to know about species name in different altitude and effect of climatic
condition mainly snow in higher elevation on the species.
General objective
The main objective of this study is to document the species composition patterns
of species encountered between 3000-4400 m in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve,
Central Nepal especially at two VDCs, Bobang and Buki..
Specific Objective
Highest species richness of tree were found in valley <2100 m. Valleys showed
highest values of basal area, leaf area index and tree basal area increment as well.
Tree diversity also increased from ridge to valley while canopy openness
31
decreased. Significant relationship existed between tree diversity and soil
parameters. Tree diversity basal area increment were positively correlated because
both are similarly affected by soil condition. The result concluded that
extraordinary high tree species richness in the area is primarly caused by three
factors i.e existence of steep altitudional and topographic gradient, the
intermingling of Amazonian lowland plant species that reach their upper
disturbance limit and geographical position of the study (Siegmar Wet al., 2010).
The study conducted along an altitudional gradient 1500-2850 m above sea level
in moist tropical montane valley slope of the Mandal Chopta r=area in Garhwal
region of India showed that forest type growing at higher altitude >2400 m had
low species richness and stem diversity. Tree density showed positive relationship
with species richness and Shanon Weinner Diversity Index. Forest type growing at
higher altitude showed geometric dominance diversity curve. The values of stem
diversity and total basal area in most of the forest type were higher than the earlier
reported values from other parts of the Uttarakhand Himalayas(Sumeet G et al.,
2011).
A total of 470 species ,292 genera and 103 families of vascular plants occurred in
43 sample of 0.1 ha, stratified at 100 melevational intervals between 1500-2500m.
There were 97 tree species,76 shrubs,70 vines, 181 restial herbs, 39 epiphytes, 3
hermiparasites, 3 sucullent and 1 saprophyte. Species richness decreased sharply
with altitude due to mainly decreases in terrestrial herbs, shrubs and vines. The
average number of species per 0.1 ha declined from 134 at 1500 m to 43 at 2500
m.The number of species, genera and family per sample declined nearly with
elevation. Species composition of sample within an altitudional band showed
greater positive turnover at lower elevation showing that low elevation forest are
not locally more diverse but spatially more patchy. Community composition varies
roughly six times as rapidly with elevation as with the same elevation horizontally
(Thomas J et al., 1998).
32
5.3 Materials and Methods
5.3.2 Methods
This includes the descriptions of study area, different tools and technique and
methods.
a. Research Design
The research procedure adopted for the study is presented below as:
33
Literature review
Problem identification,
Field Survey
Report presentation
and submission
c. Field Methods
We compare different GPS location of elevation 2,800m to nearly 4,000m
of Dhorpatan hunting reserve in mainly Baglung District in random
sampling process. In the altitude of 2,858m there are mainly Junperous
indica found. Similarly, in altitude 2,900m, 2,970m, 3,105m, 3,212m
mainly Pinus wallichae, Rhododendron campaculatum, Avis sps are found
respectively.
34
d.Numerical / Data Analysis
SN Altitude/Elevation Species
1 2,858m Junperous indica
2 2,900m Junperous indica
3 2,970m Pinus wallichae
4 3,105m Rhododendron campaculatum
5 3,212m Avis sps
5.4 Results
From the above study it found that the species composition or diversity and
richness are in decreasing pattern towards the high altitude. This is due to lack of
sufficient resources, cold climate and habitat. Similarly, different species are
dominant in different altitudes. This is mainly due to adaptation capacity of
species in certain altitude and temperature.
5.5 Discussions
From the above data analysis there are different species of fauna are found in the
altitude between 2,800m - 4,000m. In the lower altitude of range 2,800m – 2,900m
mainly Junperous indica found. Similarly, in the range of 2,970m, 3,105m,
3,212m Pinus wallichae, Rhododendron campaculatum, Avis sps etc species are
found and towards 4,000m species are totally decreased. Only range land is
available.
5.6 Conclusions
The composition of the tree along the gradient found to be varying along the
altitudinal gradient in the Himalayan region of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve.
The composition and trend in species richness of tree was somehow monotonic
The species composition and richness inversely related to the altitudinal height.
The richness goes on decreasing as we move above the gradient and eventually
there are no tree species above 3500 m asl.
35
CHAPTER 6
6.1 Introduction:
6.1.1 Background:
Nepal’s rich biodiversity is a reflection of this unique geographic position as well
as its altitudinal and climatic variations. Nepal possesses a disproportionately large
diversity of flora and fauna at genetic, species and ecosystem levels. This diversity
is found in the dense tropical monsoon forests of the Terai, the deciduous and
coniferous forests of the subtropical and temperate regions, and the sub-alpine and
alpine pastures and snow covered peaks of the Himalayan mountain range.
The biological resources of the Terai and Siwalik are mostly dominated by Sal
trees (Shorea robusta), tropical deciduous riverine forest and tropical evergreen
forest. These ecosystems are of international importance both in terms of the
number of globally threatened wildlife and floral species found in them as well as
their diversity. Unfortunately, the Terai is also heavily populated, resulting in high
pressure on the forest and agricultural resources.
The mid-hills have the greatest diversity of ecosystems and species in Nepal. This
is due to the great variety of terrain types and the occurence of subtropical to
temperate climatic zones comprising a rich flora and fauna. Nearly 32% of Nepal’s
forests occur in the mid-hills.
The mountains are the meeting place of the Palaearctic region to the north and the
Indo- Malayan region to the south. There are 38 major ecosystems in the sto Mid-
hills and lowlands because of harsh environmental conditions, they are
nevertheless characterised by a large number of endemic species.
36
6.1.2 Rationale of the study:
This research helps for sustainable and eco-friendly mining project development
by studying biological environment. This research helps site managers to elicit
information about local plants, animals and birds. This research is one of the
important aspects in environmental impact assessment in view of the need for
conservation of environmental quality.
37
6.2 Literature Review:
This article is mainly based on review of the literature (Bista et al., 2002;
Bhandari,1998; BPP, 1995; Hara et al., 1978, 1979 and 1982; Sah, 1997;
IUCN,1998; Jha, 2000; Siwakoti and Sharma, 1996; Siwakoti and Verma, 1999;
Press et al., 2000; WMI/IUCN Nepal,1994) and field observations.
Jean-Francois Dobremez (1972, 1976) recognized four domains (western,
northwestern, central, and eastern); six levels, and 11 sublevels of bioclimatic
zones. Under these bioclimatic zones, Dobremez et al. (1970-1985) in their eight
ecological maps of Nepal identified 136 ecosystems. These were later reduced to
118 by ICIMOD/MENRIS in 1995, by grouping closely allied types together
during the process of map digitisation (BPP, 1996).
38
6.3 Study Area:
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is only one hunting reserve of Nepal established in
1987. It covers an area of 1,325 square km (512 square mile) western part of Nepal
in Dhaulagiri Himal Range. It adjoins Rukum, Myagdi and Baglung districts.
Management objectives of the reserve allow sports trophy hunting and preserve a
representative high altitude ecosystem in western Nepal. This single hunting
reserve of Nepal fulfil to meet the needs of hunting for Nepalese and Foreign
hunters of Bluesheep, Himalayan Thar and some game animal Leopard, Ghoral,
Serow, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, Muntjac and Wildbour etc. But now
here are only four hunting animal are allowed to hunt in this reserve and whole
Nepal. There are also some endangered animals as like Musk Deer, Wolf, Red
Panda, Cheer Pleasant and Danphe in this reserve.
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is dividing in six hunting block for the management
of best sport trophy hunting, stop poaching and preserve a representative
ecosystem. In short, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is a stiking destination for
wildlife and bird enthusiasts who wish to visit this composed area.
Study Methods:
1.Sample collection
Sample species of flora where collected at the site.
2.Questionnaire method
Structure questionnaire survey was carried out to collect information on floral and
faunal diversity
3.Interview
Interview with the army personnel and hotel staff was carried out.
39
6.4 Results:
List of species of Flora Common name
Name of species
Pinus wallichiana Pinus
Juniperus indica Juniper
Rhododendron Rhododendron
arboreum
Quercus Oak
Rheum emodi wall Padamchal
Dactylorhiza hatagirea Panchaule
Ophiocordyceps Yarshagumba
sinensis
6.5 Discussion:
The reserve is characterized by alpine, sub-alpine and high temperate vegetation.
Common plant species include fir, pine, and birch, rhododendron, hemlock, oak,
juniper and spruce. Pastureland occupies more than 50% of the area of the Reserve
at higher elevation. The Reserve is one of the prime habitats for blue sheep, a
highly covered trophy. Other animals found here include leopard, ghoral, serow,
Himalayan thar, Himalayan black bear, barking deer, wild boar, rhesus macaque,
langur and mousehare. Pheasants and partridge are common and their viable
population in the reserve permits controlled hunting. Endangered animals in the
Reserve include musk deer, wolf, red panda, cheer pheasant and danphe.
40
6.6 Conclusion:
Hence Floral and Faunal diversity of Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve was enumerated.
This hunting reserve supports several endemic, endangered and medicinal species.
However these are getting lost or degraded by human activities, animal movements
and by some natural processes. Major threats are unsustainable management of
lands, over exploitation of resources, over grazing, animal movements etc.
41
REFRENCES:
4. Negi SS and Naithani HB. 1995. Oaks of India, Nepal and Bhutan. Dehradun
(India): International Book Distribution.
42
9. Bhuju, U.R., Shakya, P.R., Basnet, T.B. Shrestha, S. (2007): Nepal Biodiversity
Resource Book- Protected Areas, Ramsar Sites and World Heri-tage Sites. 1st ed.
ICIMOD, Kathmandu.
43
ANNEX I
44
34 Pine Pinus wallichiana 11
35 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26
36 Pine Pinus wallichiana 22
37 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16
38 Pine Pinus wallichiana 27
39 Pine Pinus wallichiana 38
40 Pine Pinus wallichiana 17
41 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26
42 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16
43 Pine Pinus wallichiana 32
44 Pine Pinus wallichiana 20
45 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21.5
46 Pine Pinus wallichiana 14
47 Pine Pinus wallichiana 24
48 Pine Pinus wallichiana 18
49 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33
50 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13.5
51 Pine Pinus wallichiana 24
52 Pine Pinus wallichiana 25
53 Pine Pinus wallichiana 46
54 Pine Pinus wallichiana 64
55 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33
56 Pine Pinus wallichiana 36
57 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13
58 Pine Pinus wallichiana 32
59 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26
60 Pine Pinus wallichiana 38.5
61 Pine Pinus wallichiana 32.5
62 Pine Pinus wallichiana 27
63 Pine Pinus wallichiana 18
64 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13.9
65 Pine Pinus wallichiana 41
66 Pine Pinus wallichiana 31
67 Pine Pinus wallichiana 19
68 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
69 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15
70 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15.9
71 Pine Pinus wallichiana 12.2
72 Pine Pinus wallichiana 25.2
45
73 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16
74 Pine Pinus wallichiana 11.5
75 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16
76 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21.3
77 Pine Pinus wallichiana 11
78 Pine Pinus wallichiana 14
79 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33
80 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
81 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15
82 Pine Pinus wallichiana 24.8
83 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
84 Pine Pinus wallichiana 11
85 Pine Pinus wallichiana 25
86 Pine Pinus wallichiana 22
87 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26
88 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
89 Pine Pinus wallichiana 20.5
90 Pine Pinus wallichiana 12
91 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15
92 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15.1
93 Pine Pinus wallichiana 14.9
94 Pine Pinus wallichiana 11
95 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15
96 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13
97 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21
98 Pine Pinus wallichiana 27
99 Pine Pinuswallichiana 16.88
10 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21.33
0
10 Pine Pinus wallichiana 30.89
1
10 Pine Pinus wallichiana 19.42
2
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 10.5
3
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 13.3
4
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 11
5
46
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 27.2
6
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 10.5
7
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 11
8
10 Juniper Juniper usindica 15
9
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 11.1
0
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 16.4
1
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 11
2
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 16
3
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 12.2
4
11 Juniper Juniper usindica 14
5
11 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 28.2
6 n
11 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 77.1
7 n
11 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 46
8 n
11 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 41
9 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 15
0 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 11
1 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 27
2 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 11.3
3 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 77.1
4 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 36
47
5 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 31
6 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 67
7 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 34
8 n
12 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 17
9 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 11.3
0 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 18
1 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 19
2 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 10
3 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 11
4 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 22
5 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 23
6 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 22.5
7 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 24.5
8 n
13 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 31.8 DBH 10-20 =108
9 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 25 DBH 20-30= 40
0 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 57.5 DBH 30-40= 32
1 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 12 DBH 40- 80 =.9
2 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 10
3 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 23
4 n
48
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 25.5
5 n
14 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 38.5
6 n
14 Abscess Abscess 11
7
14 Abscess Abscess 28
8
14 Pine Pinus wallichiana 50
9
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 37
0
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 25
1
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 34.5
2
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26.5
3
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33.7
4
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33
5
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 37.2
6
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 36.3
7
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 26
8
15 Pine Pinus wallichiana 38.9
9
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 23.5
0
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 20
1
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 62.5
2
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 20
3
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 41
49
4
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21.5
5
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16.3
6
16 Pine Pinus wallichiana 34
7
16 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 29.5
8 n
16 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 30.7
9 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 10.7
0 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 12.8
1 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 12.6
2 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 18.7
3 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 14.7
4 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 30
5 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 13
6 n
17 Rhododendro Rhododendron arboreum 10.2
7 n
17 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.2
8
17 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13
9
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 13.8
0
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 40.3
1
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.5
2
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 24
3
50
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.1
4
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15.6
5
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 12
6
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 19
7
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 28.8
8
18 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
9
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 24.4
0
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 39.8
1
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
2
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 17.7
3
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 54.8
4
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 63.6
5
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 18.8
6
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 28.2
7
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 23.8
8
19 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10
9
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 14
0
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16
1
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.1
2
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15.5
51
3
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 25.3
4
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 15.2
5
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 19.5
6
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.1
7
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 36.5
8
20 Pine Pinus wallichiana 33
9
21 Pine Pinus wallichiana 21
0
21 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16.4
1
21 Pine Pinus wallichiana 16.5
2
21 Pine Pinus wallichiana 10.5
3
21 Pine Pinus wallichiana 19.3
4
52
ANNEX II
53
Faunal diversity Floral diversity
54