Species richness and diversity along an altitudinal gradient in moist temperate forest of Garhwal Himalaya.

In the present study we have described the impact of altitude on the species richness, species diversity and dispersion behaviour of different tree species in Himalayan temperate forest. We have observed that the values of all the growth indices i.e., Margalef's index (0.17 to 1.14), Menheink's index (0.27 to 0.80), Species diversity (0.99 to 2.34) and Simpson's diversity index (1.49 to 8.73) were maximum at the lower altitudes (2250-1850m asl), medium at mid-altitudes (2600-2400m asl) and lowest at the higher altitudes (2800-2700m asl). Significantly negative correlation of density and species richness with altitude and slope was recorded. The study suggests that the distribution and species richness pattern of different tree species are largely regulated by the altitude and climatic factors. (Journal of American Science 2009;5(5):119-128). (ISSN: 1545-1003).