Vol. 11, Special Issue 9 (2022)

Author(s):
RA Mir, GM Bhat, AA Wani, JA Mugloo, SA Mir and AH Malik

Abstract:
The objective of this study was to study phytosociological status of selected open meadows along altitudinal gradient during 2020-21 of Doodhganga range, Pirpanchal forest division Budgam. A total of 80 herb species belonging to 30 families and 66 genuses were identified in the study area. The maximum average density of (plants/m²) was recorded of Cyodon dactylon pers.at all three altitudes, fallowed by Sibaldeae cuneata Edgew, Trifolium repens L. Fragaria nibicola Lindl etc. Highest frequency was achieved by Cynodon dactylon pers. fallowed by by, Trifolium spp. Sibaldeae cuneata Edgew, and Poa spp. Abundance to frequency ratio of most of species was between greater than 0.05 indicating Contagious distribution. The IVI indicates that Cyodon dactylon pers. was found most dominant species at all three altitudes (A1, A2, A3) with IVI value of (28.89,29.90,29.38) respectively fallowed by Sibaldeae cuneata Edgew. at A3(2800-3100 m) and Fragaria nubicola Lindl at A2(2500-2800 m) altitude. Shanon Weiner Index shows decreasing trend as altitude increases, was found maximum at lower altitude (2200-2500 m) with value of 1.68 and minimum at (2800-3100 m) with a value of 1.54. Simpsons index of Dominance was found higher at altitude (2800-3100 m) and decreases towards lower altitudes. Maximum similarity index was found between A2 and A3 altitudes and maximum dissimilarity was found between A1 and A3 altitudes.