Floristic Diversity of the Himalaya in Relation to Climate Change: Status, Values and Conservation

Abstract

The Himalayan region is very well known for the unique ecosystems. The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) forms the major part of the Himalayan region. The vegetation along an altitudinal gradient comprises of tropical, sub-tropical, temperate, sub-alpine and alpine types and supports a great variety of forests with unique species that vary from east to west and from low to high altitudes. The present study is based on the review of literature and surveys in some parts of the IHR. A total of 10,503 species (10,452 species of Angiosperms and 51 species of Gymnosperms) are reported from the Himalayan region. The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) represents 18,940 species of plants representing Angiosperms, Gymnosperms, Pteridophytes, Bryophytes, Lichens, and Fungi. A total of 6745 species of Angiosperms (604 trees, 1049 shrubs & 5092 herbs) belonging to 225 families, 1768 genera are recorded from the Trans, North-West and West Himalaya based on surveys and review of literature. Diversity of the orchids, medicinal plants, wild edibles, other economically important plants, factors affecting floristic diversity, impact of climate change and conservation initiatives have been discussed. Appropriate strategy is suggested for the conservation and management of floristic diversity.

Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of Zanthoxylum Armatum: A Research

“…4 These species that may be used as medicinal plants have more effectiveness against the diseases and are more curable without any side effects. 6 Z. armatum is used as a medicine from ancient times to cure various diseases such as toothache and problems related to tooth and asthma, used for gum bleeding, fever, dyspepsia and tonics, etc. 7,8 The fruit part of the plant may use to purify the water.…”