Population assessment and habitat distribution modelling of high value corylus jacquemontii for in situ conservation in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

Corylus jacquemontii is one of the ecologically and economically important high value multipurpose tree in Indian Himalaya Region. Continued over-exploitation and habitat degradation of the species for fodder, fuel, food and medicinal purposes have caused rapid depletion from natural habitats. Therefore, twenty five populations of the C. jacquemontii were assessed in Lahaul & Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba and Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh. Soil sampled from each population were analyzed. The density of the species was highest in dry slope habitat. Total tree density had a significant positive correlation with organic carbon of soil (r=0.42, P<0.05 and n=25). C. jacquemontii seedling density had significant negative correlation with altitude (r =-0.43, P<0.05 and n=25) and pH (r=-0.60, P<0.05 and n=50). Most of the populations had poor regeneration of species. MaxEnt model predicted 3300 Km2 suitable area for reintroduction of species in Himachal Pradesh. Precipitation of driest peroid emerged as a major factor in determining the distribution of potential habitats of C. jacquemontii. Therefore, mass multiplication using seed germination protocol, their establishment in identified habitats and regular monitoring of the habitats with the active participation of local inhabitants, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and Forest Department are essentially required.