Phytosociological Analysis in Kumaun Himalaya using Satellite Remote Sensing with Special Reference to Woody Vegetation

Abstract

Abstract
The present study deals with phytosociological analysis of woody vegetation (tree layer and shrub layer) of different forest types occurring in Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand. A total 12 forest types were mapped using multiseason satellite data of IRS-P6, AWiFS sensor. Sampling was carried out in all the forest types to characterize the structure of forests in terms of abundance, density and dominance at different sites. The field data from different sites was pooled across site for different forest types and was arranged in girth classes. Among all the tree species maximum IVI was recorded for Pinus roxburghii and minimum IVI was observed for Dalbergia sissoo. Maximum density was recorded for temperate conifer forest and minimum density exhibited by degraded sal forest. Maximum total tree basal cover was observed for temperate conifer forest. However, minimum basal area was recorded for degraded low altitude oak forest. Different forest types were also evaluated for the similarity in species composition.
Keywords: IVI, IRS-P6, AWiFS, Remote sensing, Pine, Oak, Basal area