Spatial Patterns and Diversity of Alpine Vegetation across Langer-Shandur Valley, Hindukush Himalayas

While study of regional diversity and spatial distribution of species bears great relevance for conservation and management, Hindukush Himalayan (HKH) alpine zone lacks such information. The present study, through a rapid quantitative assessment of regional flora along Kukush Lake in Langar-Shandoor Valley, provides a better scientific understanding of diversity and distribution of alpine vegetation. Vegetation data were collected from eight sites using stratified random sampling. A total of 51 species (28 plant families) were recorded with an average species richness in the area of 2.14; Simpson's diversity, 0.75; evenness, 0.79 and average degree of community maturity index of 44%. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA), regression analyses and factor analyses were used to identify vegetation associations. DCA clearly separated the associations along the first two axes. Altitude and moisture contents appeared to be key environmental factors governing the diversity and distribution of alpine vegetation. A negative correlation of altitude with diversity and richness was revealed. Vegetation exhibited significant variations in the diversity and distribution along the sampled sites. These variations may be attributed to the prevalent anthropogenic and livestock disturbances. The implications of the results have been discussed to highlight the conservation needs for protection of endemic floral elements in HKH alpine region.