Patterns in litter fall and litter decomposition along an altitudinal gradient in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalaya

Abstract

Patterns in litter fall and litter decomposition were studied along an altitudinal gradient in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary of central Himalaya. The study area was stratified into three broad altitudinal zones: lower (1600–1900 m), mid (1900–2100 m), and higher (2100–2400 m), based on the occurrence of major forest types (e.g. chir pine, chir oak and oak). Three plots of 100 × 100 m were selected in each altitudinal zone and the amount of litter was measured by placing five litter traps of 1 × 1 m randomly on the forest floor at each site. Litter decomposition was studied using the nylon bags technique. The results reveal that production of litter decreases with elevation in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. At lower elevations, the litter is primarily composed of chir pine needles and woody litter, and is highest in June and lowest in January. There was a similar trend in litter production at mid elevations, whereas at higher elevations, the maximum litter fall was recorded in May. There are variations in decomposition rates, and the most rapid dry weight loss begins with the onset of the rainy season and continues into the post-monsoon period up to November. The rate of decomposition in the study area is lower than in other central Himalayan forests due to the location, which forms a transition zone between temperate and sub-tropical forest.