Composition, structure and diversity of tree species along an elevational gradient in Dudu forest range, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

The present study has been undertaken along an altitudinal gradient (950-3500m a.s.l.) in Dudu Forest Range of Udhampur Forest Division, Jammu & Kashmir, India to understand the composition, structure and diversity of tree species along an elevation gradient in the area. Ten forest types characterised by different dominant tree species with subtropical and temperate elements of vegetation have been recognised in the area.Overall average values of diversity indices such as Margalef’s Index (MI); Menhinik Index (MeI); Shannon-Weiner Index (H’) and Simpson Index (D) have been observed to be 1.70, 0.85, 1.66 and 0.61, respectively. The study suggested that distribution and species richness are largely regulated by physiographic and climatic factors along the gradient.