Distribution and structural-functional attributes of trees in the high altitude zone of Central Himalaya, India

Patterns of tree species distribution and their structural-functional features were studied along an altitudinal gradient in the Indian Central Himalaya. The forest vegetation falls within three formation types: low to mid-montane sclerophyllous, broad-leaved forests; mid-montane deciduous forests; and high-montane mixed stunted forests. Deciduous tree species formed a considerable (49%) portion of the high altitude forests between 1500–3300 m. The upper limit of forests ranges from 3000 to 3300 m, and three taxa are commonly found at tree line: an evergreen, needle-leaved gymnosperm (Abies pindrow Spach.), an evergreen, broad-leaved sclerophyllous oak (Quercus semecarpifolia Sm.), and a deciduous, broad-leaved birch (Betula utilis Don).