Northwestern Himalaya Research Articles

Exploration of morphological diversity to select naturally occurring promising walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes from the North-Western Himalayan region

Exploration of morphological diversity to select naturally occurring promising walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes from the North-Western Himalayan region

Palaeoclimatic Signatures Based on Pollen Fingerprints: Reconstructing Mid–Late Holocene Climate Dynamics in Northwestern Himalaya, India

This study presents a high-resolution palaeoclimate reconstruction based on a radiocarbon-dated 240 cm deep trench profile from Renuka Lake, Northwestern Himalaya, India. The palynological analysis provides insight into the palaeovegetation and palaeoclimatic dynamics of a subtropical, dense, mixed deciduous forest, predominantly characterized by Sal (Shorea robusta). The fossil pollen reveals the presence of tropical Sal mixed deciduous taxa, including Shorea robusta, Emblica officinalis, Murraya koenigii, Toona ciliata, Syzygium cumini, and Terminalia spp., which indicate that the region experiences a warm and humid climate with the strong Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) during ~7500–4460 cal yr BP. Subsequently, Sal-mixed deciduous forests were replaced by highland taxa, viz., Pinus roxburghii and Abies pindrow, suggesting dry and cold conditions during ~4460–3480 cal yr BP. Additionally, warm and humid (~3480–3240, ~3060–2680, ~2480–2270 cal yr BP) and cold and dry conditions (~3240–3060, ~2680–2480, ~2270–1965 cal yr BP) recorded alternatively in this region. Improved ISM prevailed ~1965–940 cal yr BP, followed by cold and dry conditions ~940–540 cal yr BP. From ~540 cal yr BP to present, the appearance of moist deciduous taxa alongside dry deciduous and highland taxa in similar proportions suggests moderate climate conditions in the region.

Saffron Yield and Quality Response Under Varying Altitude, Climate, and Soil Properties in the Pir Panjal Range in North-Western Himalayas

Saffron Yield and Quality Response Under Varying Altitude, Climate, and Soil Properties in the Pir Panjal Range in North-Western Himalayas

Ethnobiological survey on medicinal plants used by gaddi and gujjar tribes of riparian region of Beas River of Himachal Pradesh in North Western Himalayas, India

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most species-rich regions in the world and a key center for the origin and diversity of numerous plant species. Ethnobotanical research is essential for exploring these diverse biological resources for medicinal uses. This study aimed to record the traditional knowledge of the tribal communities in Himachal Pradesh concerning the use of medicinal plants for treating diseases in humans and livestock. Despite this richness, there is a lack of detailed documentation about the use of therapeutic plants in this area. The indigenous communities in this region rely on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, making it a valuable resource for further pharmacological and phytochemical research. The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted from August 2022 to July 2023, and our fieldwork took place in four districts (Kullu (1279 m), Mandi (760 m), Hamirpur (780 m) and Kangra (1200–1300 m) under various villages. The ethnobiological data was gathered through field surveys, open interviews, discussions, and semi-structured questionnaires conducted with 193 tribal participants aged 40 to 80 years. Informants were chosen using the randomized household interview and snowball sampling methods. The study documented 64 plants from 39 families, among which 58 species are angiosperms, 5 species are pteridophytes and one species is bryophyte utilized for therapeutic purposes. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Ranunculaceae were the most used medicinal herb families. Rubus ellipticus (0.75) and Trillium govanianum (0.74) demonstrated the highest UV (Use value) values. The ICF (Informant Consensus factor) value revealed that nervous system disorders-related ailments were the most treated. This study explored the ethnobiological information of therapeutic flora from riparian vegetation within tribal communities while also assessing the present state of research and the practical application of their medicinal information. It underscores the potential for additional research to delve deeper into the indigenous properties of their therapeutic floras and emphasizes the importance of preserving their traditional medicinal wisdom.

Unveiling the seismic sensitivity of the Himalayan tunnels: a comprehensive assessment through analytical and numerical exploration of P-wave dynamics

This study investigated the seismic sensitivity of tunnels in the Jammu Region (JR) of the northwestern Himalayas, a region characterized by significant seismic activity and complex geological conditions. The research combined both analytical and numerical approaches to assess the influence of site conditions, tunnel lining, and reinforcement properties on tunnel resilience. A key objective is to develop a more reliable seismic assessment method by adopting a P-wave-based approach, which is particularly suitable for mountainous tunnels prone to landslides. The study identified three seismic hazard zones, with peak ground accelerations (PGA) ranging from less than 0.3 g to greater than 0.5 g, providing vulnerability aspects. The major outcomes of this study include guidelines for the design and retrofitting of sustainable and resilient underground structures in the Himalayas, with broader implications for global projects in seismically active and geologically complex regions. The methodologies and insights can be applied to infrastructure projects worldwide, enhancing the safety of communities living in vulnerable areas. This work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting resilient infrastructure and sustainable development, contributing to both structural resilience and the geological safety of the Himalayan region.

Development of a welfare assessment protocol for migratory goats in the North-Western Himalayan region

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop a welfare assessment protocol specifically for migratory goats, acknowledging that migratory pastoralism, while allowing natural behavior expression, can compormise welfare due to environmental stressors and malnutrition. Existing research predominantly focuses on intensive systems, leaving a gap in migratory system assessment. Adapted from the AWIN framework, the protocol was developed through a systematic literature review and expert consultation (N = 46), prioritizing welfare indicators using Likert scale and Weighted Average Index. The protocol includes five welfare domains – feeding, environment/facility around camping, health, behavior, and performance – with 32 indicators (5, 6, 9, 5, and 7 per domain,). Weighted scores were allocated as 25, 15, 30, 15, and 15,respectively, totalling100. Cronbach’s alpha of 0.90 confirmed reliability and internal consistency, with content validity supported by 91.30% expert agreement. Feasibility testing across varying altitudes and physiological stages validated the protocol in high altitude, vertical migratory systems, However, further testing is required for low-altitude, horizontal migratory systems to address environmental and management differences. This protocol offers a taiilored framework for assessing welfare in migraotry goat systems..

Up-scaling Fodder Oats (Avena sativa L.) Production through Adoptive Research: Evidence from North-western Himalayas

Up-scaling Fodder Oats (Avena sativa L.) Production through Adoptive Research: Evidence from North-western Himalayas

Range-wide understanding of genetic diversity and population structure of endangered Kashmir musk deer in North-Western Himalaya.

The endangered Kashmir musk deer (Moschus cupreus), native to high-altitude Himalayas, is an ecological significant and endangered ungulate, threatened by habitat loss and poaching for musk pod distributed in western Himalayan ranges of India, Nepal and Afghanistan. Despite its critical conservation status and ecological importance in regulating vegetation dynamics, knowledge gaps persist regarding its population structure and genetic diversity, hindering effective management strategies. We aimed to understand the population genetics of Kashmir musk deer in north-western Himalayas using two mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) regions and 11 microsatellite loci. Total of 63 consensus sequences were analyzed, revealing 10 haplotypes with high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.906 ± 0.031) and moderate nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00539 ± 0.004) at mitochondrial markers. Microsatellite analysis indicated moderate genetic variability, with observed heterozygosity (Ho = 0.445 ± 0.049) and expected heterozygosity (He = 0.764 ± 0.039), comparable to the forest musk deer but relatively lower than that observed in other ungulates. Population structure analysis identified three potential genetic clusters, with evidence of genetic admixture in the Lahaul Valley, possibly due to gene flow from neighboring areas. Historical demographic analyses using Bayesian skyline plots and mismatch distribution curves indicated stable population sizes in the past, followed by recent declines in maternal effective population size. Our findings highlight the necessity of preserving the genetic diversity of the Kashmir musk deer to ensure its long-term survival. We recommend expanding the geographic range of sampling to include regions such as Chamba and Kinnaur districts in Himachal Pradesh, potential areas in Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand, for more comprehensive population-level analysis. Such efforts will be crucial for developing targeted conservation strategies and mitigating the impacts of human activities on this endangered species.

Assessing the Climate Change Impacts in the Jhelum Basin of North-Western Himalayas

Assessing the Climate Change Impacts in the Jhelum Basin of North-Western Himalayas

Sedimentology, geochemistry and palaeoenvironments of Jurassic oolitic ironstones from the eastern Tethys (Indus Basin, northwestern Himalayas, Pakistan)

Sedimentology, geochemistry and palaeoenvironments of Jurassic oolitic ironstones from the eastern Tethys (Indus Basin, northwestern Himalayas, Pakistan)

Understanding fish assemblage structure using enviro assessment techniques in a Northwestern Himalayan reservoir of Beas River basin in Himachal Pradesh (H.P.), India.

Environmental factors play a fundamental role in shaping fish assemblage in aquatic ecosystems. The present study describes the fish assemblage structure on the spatial scale in Pong Reservoir, which lies in foothills of the Northwestern Himalaya within the river Beas basin. Through sophisticated enviro assessment techniques, using ArcGIS mapping, this study provides valuable insight into how physicochemical factors shape the fish assemblage in the reservoir. In total, 1211 individuals belonging to 8 orders, 10 families, 15 genera, and 19 species were recorded. The order Cypriniformes has the highest number of species. The invasive species Oreochromis niloticus was also documented for the first time in this reservoir. At a spatial scale, diversity indices reveal that the lacustrine zone had the lowest fish diversity. The transitional zone showed more species richness as compared to other riverine and lacustrine. The IUCN conservation status showed that among 19 fish species, two species (Wallago attu and Cyprinus carpio) are under vulnerable and only one species, Tor putitora, is under the endangered category. The majority of recorded water quality parameters fell within the acceptable range. CCA analysis of physiochemical parameters with fish abundance reveals that DO and turbidity were found to positively influence the species abundance. These findings provide a valuable resource for understanding ecology and also lay a solid foundation for the development of effective fisheries management strategies in this reservoir.

Effect of climate change on potential distribution of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soó in the twenty-first century across the north-western Himalayas

Abstract The populations of Dactylorhiza hatagirea are shrinking fast across the north-western Himalayas. Although the effects of contemporary anthropic factors on its distribution are well documented, the impacts of anticipated climate change have not been evaluated. In the present study, the maximum entropy modelling (MaxEnt) was used to quantify the impact of climate change on the distribution of D. hatagirea over the next 50 years under representative concentration pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, using ensemble mean of four general circulation models, viz. CCSM4, CNRM, MRI, and GFDL. The results exhibited a fairly good model performance, with D. hatagirea attaining the highest suitability when ‘annual mean temperature’ and ‘annual precipitation’ peaks at ca. 11.5 °C and 1,250 mm, respectively. The variables with greater influence (%) were annual precipitation (40.7), mean temperature of the wettest quarter (22.9), precipitation seasonality (16.6), and mean annual temperature (10.4). Under the current climate, about 790 km2 that spread across Kashmir (274.1 km2) Jammu (210.5 km2), and Ladakh (305.6 km2) were identified as high potential habitat (HPH) areas. The predicted distribution showed that for RCP 4.5 the HPH areas would decrease by 4.2 and 5.4%, by 2050 and 2070, while for RC P8.5 the decrease would be 18.1 and 8.7%, respectively. The shrinkage may be more obvious across tropical and temperate regions, while the species may gain new HPH areas across cold arid areas. Although HPH shrinkage for D. hatagirea appears mild, but as it exhibits high habitat specificity and grows inherently slow, this insignificant shrinkage may enhance its risk of local extinction. Therefore, an integrated approach involving in-situ measures across regions, where the species may disappear, and ex-situ measures, where it may expand, is hugely important.

Evolving glacier patterns in the Chenab River Basin (1993-2021): Drivers and environmental implications.

Glaciers of Jammu and Kashmir are retreating faster than those in the broader northwestern Himalayas, yet some glaciers in the Chenab River basin display signs of periodic advancement and mass gain (2005-2007). These features, such as coalescing lobate structures and blocked meltwater streams, raise intriguing questions about localized glacier dynamics. While global concerns over climate change and glacier retreat persist, the lack of detailed evidence regarding glacier advance in this region warrants further investigation. Consequently, a comprehensive investigation of the Bhut and Warwan sub-basin glaciers of the Chenab River basin, was conducted to understand their spatio-temporal evolution between 1993 and 2021. Our analysis revealed an area loss (6.7%), surface thinning (-0.3±0.4 ma-1), increased debris cover (11%), and reduced glacial velocity (54% in Bhut and 20% in Warwan) between 1993 and 2021. In contrast, we also observed periodic insignificant glacier advancement on nine glaciers, a balanced state on twelve, and the complete disappearance of 113 glaciers in these three decades. Among Bhut and Warwan sub-basins, the former revealed higher average velocity, slowdown, and thinning compared to the latter. The higher average velocity in the Bhut sub-basin is controlled by relatively higher precipitation, and the increase in overall debris coverage possibly governs the enhanced slowdown and thinning. We conclude that while the climate controls the long-term and periodic glacier response, the spatial variability is governed largely by the debris thickness, which is variable among glaciers and might also be changing. Furthermore, the aforementioned geomorphological evidence of some glacier advances, while happening locally, does not well represent the state and recent dynamics of the glaciers in these regions overall.

Threat categorization and conservation prioritization of floristic diversity in Pangi valley of Himachal Pradesh, North Western Himalaya

Threat categorization and conservation prioritization of floristic diversity in Pangi valley of Himachal Pradesh, North Western Himalaya

Quantification of Indigenous Rhizobial Populations Associated with Pea Nodulation in Kumaon Region of North-western Himalayas

The purpose of this study was to explore the diversity of native rhizobial populations in pea-cultivating regions of the Kumaon area in the north-western Himalayas and their role in biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). The research employed completely randomized design (CRD), involving the collection of soil samples from 12 locations to analyze rhizobial populations, soil physicochemical properties, and their effects on pea nodulation and nitrogen accumulation. A positive correlation was observed between soil organic carbon (OC) levels and the most probable number (MPN) of rhizobia, with higher OC supporting greater rhizobial growth and BNF. Sites such as Daranti and Khamaria, with elevated OC levels, exhibited higher rhizobial populations and enhanced nodulation, while regions with lower OC, such as Chafi and Sui, showed reduced activity. Daranti recorded the highest rhizobial count 10,000 g⁻¹ of soil, and Timiladiggi demonstrated superior nitrogen fixation efficiency (18.01 mg plant⁻¹ BNF). These findings suggest the potential for isolating and using efficient rhizobial strains, such as those from Timiladiggi, as inoculants to improve BNF in less fertile areas. The study also identified climatic influences on soil properties, with cooler, high-altitude regions promoting greater OC accumulation and rhizobial activity. These results emphasize the importance of utilizing efficient rhizobial strains and enhancing soil OC to boost legume productivity and support sustainable agriculture in diverse agroclimatic zones. Future research should focus on metagenomic analyses to characterize the genetic diversity of native rhizobia and uncover their functional traits.

The genital morphology and major taxonomic characteristics of butterfly Genus Papilio (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae): insights from Northwestern Himalayas, India

The genital morphology and major taxonomic characteristics of butterfly Genus Papilio (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae): insights from Northwestern Himalayas, India

Soil Organic Carbon in Three Selected Agroforestry System at Temperate Zone (2000-2800m) of North Western Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India

Climate change is largely driven by the increased concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere. While halting climate change entirely may not be feasible at this point, mitigating its effects is crucial, and agroforestry is one of the key strategies that can help in this regard and to mitigate some of its consequences by reducing CO₂ in the atmosphere and promoting sustainable land management. Therefore, the objective of this study was to collate and synthesize the existing information on the soil organic carbon with three agroforestry system (viz.Agrihortisystem, Agrihortisilviculture system and Agrisilviculture system ) at temperate region in North Western Himalaya , Uttarakhand, India.The present study was carried out durung the year 2016-2018.Stratified random sampling techniques were used for this study. Ten sample plots (100m2) were randomly laid out in each agroforestry system in temperate zone (2000-2800m) of each developmental block. Soil organic carbon was determined at three different depth 0-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm. Soil organic carbon was determined using the Walkley and Black method. Weighing bottle method were used for determining bulk density. The results revealed considerable that SOC of agroforestry systems goes along with the following order: Agrihortisystem (45.72 MgCha-1) >Agrihortisilviculture system (24.99 MgC ha-1) >Agrisilvi culture system (23.79 MgC ha-1) The study concluded that the agrihorticulture system at higher altitudes (2000-2800 m) had a significantly greater soil organic carbon pool. It was suggested that, if necessary, converting agricultural fields to agrihorticulture systems in the Northwestern Himalayas could enhance soil carbon sequestration.

Understanding the habitat utilization of Kashmir musk deer Moschus cupreus Grubb, 1982 for conservation planning in the Kazinag National Park and adjacent landscape, northwestern Himalaya

Understanding the habitat utilization of Kashmir musk deer Moschus cupreus Grubb, 1982 for conservation planning in the Kazinag National Park and adjacent landscape, northwestern Himalaya

Detailed Investigation of Dolomites in the Middle Jurassic Samana Suk Formation, Kahi Section, Nizampur Basin, North-Western Himalayas (Pakistan)

Abstract —Diagenetically modified carbonate rocks are more common in the rock record. Among these modifications, multiphase dolomitization is the most common process. The Middle Jurassic carbonates of the Samana Suk Formation are extensively altered by the dolomitization process in the Kahi section, Nizampur Basin. The primary objective of this study is to investigate this multiphase dolomitization and to elucidate its possible mechanism. Field investigation shows both host limestone (oolitic, fossiliferous, and massive) and dolomites. Dolomite bodies are of both beddings: parallel to and crosscutting the bedding planes. Different types of dolomites were recognized on the basis of color contrast as dark gray replacive dolomite, light gray dolomite, brownish dolomite, and yellowish dolomite. Along with the replacive phase, void- and fracture-filling cementing saddle dolomite and cementing calcites are recognized in the field. Petrographic studies show the complex diagenetic history of the Samana Suk Formation from near-surface diagenesis, including micritization, neomorphism, and several varieties of dolomites. These varieties are as follows: RD1 is very fine- to fine-grained dolomite; RD2 is medium- to coarse-grained and anhedral to subhedral dolomite; RD3 is coarse- to very coarse-grained and planar euhedral zoned dolomite; and RD4 is coarse-grained euhedral to subhedral ferroan dolomite. In addition, cementing saddle dolomite SD consists of large crystals with curved faces showing sweeping extinction. Cementing calcite phases are as follows: CC1 is granular mosaic; CC2 is twin; CC3 is fracture-filling; and CC4 is ferroan calcite. The stable isotope values of limestone (δ18O is –7.13 to –0.73‰ V-PDB, and δ13C is –0.05 to 1.32‰ V-PDB) show depletion with respect to the Jurassic marine signature. The values of multiphase dolomites RD1–RD4 and SD (δ18O is –8.65 to –3.16‰, and δ13C is –3.56 to 2.09‰) indicate multiphase dolomitization. The CC1–CC3 values (δ18O is –11.07 to –8.97‰, and δ13C is –2.14 to 0.76‰) indicate highly depleted values of δ18O, showing hydrothermal origin. From field, petrography, and geochemistry data, it is deduced that a possible source of Mg for hydrothermal dolomites is activation of faults and fractures during active tectonic regime in the area and might be related to activation and reactivation of the Kahi Thrust system.

Development of Rainfall Threshold Equation and Bayesian Probabilistic Analysis for Landslide Prediction: A Case Study of Shimla, Northwestern Himalaya, India

Development of Rainfall Threshold Equation and Bayesian Probabilistic Analysis for Landslide Prediction: A Case Study of Shimla, Northwestern Himalaya, India