Phytosociology and Structure of Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) of Northern Areas of Pakistan

Abstract: A study was carried out to asses the phytosocology and structures of National Park. For tree species, point center quarter method (PCQ) and understorey vegetation, 1.5m circular plot at each PCQ point, while for bushes 20 quadrats 3x5 m were used. Five stands dominated by trees and eight stands of bushes were recorded. Picea smithiana and Pinus wallichiana form a community in two sites, associated with Juniperus excelsa. These pine tree species were also distributed as a pure stands in different sites with higher density and basal 1 2 1 area. In pure stands, Juniperus excelsa attained lowest density ha with highest basal area m ha. Stands of mixed species stands show considerable low basal area. Diameter size class structure of tree species and bushes gives the current status and future trend of these forests. These forests show uneven and disbalanced size class distribution, therefore need special attention to save and protect these forests and vegetation. Key words: CKNP Phytosociological Trees Bushes Understory vegetation