PJB-2023-378
Himalayan Alder populations face a dramatic shrinkage in the Sino-Japanese belt of Pakistan, a conservation assessment
zahoor ul Haq
Abstract
Alnus nitida is a nodulated multipurpose species growing along the bank of Nallas, rivers, and lakes. Locally the species is used for fuel, agricultural and medicinal purposes. Unfortunately, overgrazing, soil erosion, floods, urbanization, and lack of awareness regarding the species are the factors wiping its population. The current study was conducted in the Sino-Japanese belt of Pakistan to assess the conservation status of the A. nitida. We have collected data from Alnus nitida populations across the Sino-Japanese belt during 2017-2018. Inhabitants of the studied region were interviewed to acquire the knowledge trend of the species in the past and when they observed the status directly. We have assessed A. nitida populations via quadrat quantitative ecological techniques. A 100m2 station was marked for any future studies, in which, 25m2, and 1x1m2 qudartes were taken to record the ecological characteristics of A. nitida and other associated trees, shrubs, and herbs, respectively. The germination rate of catkin along with young seedlings was observed and recorded at each quadrat. CANOCO software was used to assess the physiological and ecological impact of associated species on A. nitida, while A. nitida conservation status was assessed via the Google earth pro application. The area of occupancy (AOO) and extent of occurrence (EOO) were estimated for all populations in different stations via Google Earth Pro application. The IUCN Red List categories and criteria were used to find the conservation status of A. nitida along the Sino-Japanese belt of Pakistan. We elucidate that A. nitida is vulnerable throughout the Sino-Japanese region of Pakistan but facing critically endangered status at regional scale in different areas. The speedy changes in deforestation and habitat destruction can lead the species towards extinction. Therefore conservation and restoration of the species are required.
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