Botany

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ADSORPTIVE REMOVAL OF ALUMINIUM (III) USING CHEMICALLY MODIFIED SUGARCANE BAGASSE FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) NEPAL, DIWASH
A major concern for both humans and aquatic life can result from the presence of several metal ions in an aquatic environment that exceeds the allowed limit. The most efficient way to remove minute levels of hazardous metals from wastewater is through adsorption. The primary goal of this thesis work is to chemically modify sugarcane bagasse in order to create a low-cost, highly effective adsorbent for the removal of Al (III) from an aqueous solution. Both xanthated and charred sugarcane bagasse have been prepared as adsorbents. Adsorbents are characterised using FTIR, EDS, and SEM. For analysis, batch experimental method was carried out. Utilizing both CSB and XSB, the effect of pH, Al (III) concentration and contact time have been investigated using both CSB and XSB adsorbents. For both adsorbents, a 150-minutes maximum duration and a pH of 4 are found to be ideal. The Langmuir isotherm model is best fitted for equilibrium sorption data, and maximum adsorption capacities of CSB and XSB are determined to be 50.9 mg/g and 81.0 mg/g, respectively. Studies on kinetic modelling showed that a pseudo second-order kinetic model best fit the experimental data. These findings show that XSB can be an alternative bio-adsorbent for the elimination of Al(III) from an aqueous solution.
ASSESSMENT OF AIR POLLUTION TOLERANCE INDEX AND LEAF STRUCTURE OF SELECTED PLANT SPECIES AROUND UDAYAPUR CEMENT FACTORY, NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Prasai, Pooja
Present study investigate the effect of cement dust on plants physiology and morphology around Udayapur Cement Factory. Plants can be both bio-indicator and tolerant in order to control the air pollution in urban and industrial areas. Eight commonly available plant species of tree and shrub were selected from study area. Plant species were collected from four directions and four different radial distances from the factory viz. (0-250 m), (250-500 m), (500-750 m) and (750-1000 m) from the Udayapur Cement Factory. To study the relative tolerance of plants towards air pollutants, four parameters namely ascorbic acid, leaf extract pH, total chlorophyll and relative water content were measured and computed together to calculate air pollution tolerance index (APTI). The characteristics of leaf structure (stomatal length, breadth and density and specific leaf area) were also studied. The APTI values of most of the plant species increased significantly at distance near to the factory at 0-250 m distance. All the tree species showed high APTI values in eastern direction and among the shrub species studied Colebrookea oppositifolia and Clerodendrum viscosum had high APTI values at northern direction, Melastoma melabathricum showed high APTI values in eastern direction and Phoenix acaulis had high APTI values at western direction. Most of the species showed high APTI values in east direction which indicates high air pollution in this direction, which may be due to the presence of road between the forests in order to transport cement from the factory as well as the dust emission from the factory and also the direction of westerly wind. Based on APTI values three tree species (Casearia graveolens, Cassia fistula and Shorea robusta) and two shrub species (Colebrookea oppositifolia and Phoenix acaulis) were found to be tolerant species with APTI values ranging above seventeen. Derris elliptica was considered as intermediate species with APTI value ranging between twelve and sixteen. Likewise, shrub species namely Melastoma melabathricum and Clerodendrum viscosum measured APTI value less than eleven and were kept under sensitive category. The data of stomatal density showed increasing trend and stomatal length and breadth showed decreasing trend while moving near to the cement factory (0-250 m). SLA of all plant species decreased near the cement factory.
COMMUNITY STRUCTURE AND REGENERATION OF Abies spectabilis D. Don IN SHAILUNG, CENTRAL NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) JOSHI, ADITYA
Community structure and regeneration of Abies spectabilis (D.Don) was studied in Abies spectabilis forest located in Shailung, Dolakha. Vegetation sampling was done by circular plot (20m diameter) method and the sample plots were located by systematic random sampling method. Two sites, northern and aspect, were selected for the study. Four horizontal transects running parallel to each other of about 200m altitudinal difference were designed for each aspect. Altogether 48 plots, six in each transect were established and the aerial distance between the plot was 50m. Number of woody plant species, number of individuals of each tree species, diameter at breast height (DBH) of each individual tree, number of seedlings and saplings of tree species were recorded in each plot. Various community attributes and population characteristics were analyzed. From each horizontal transect, soil was collected by pairing of plots in each transect from a depth of 30cm and pooled together. Three soil samples of 200 g from each transect were collected and their physicochemical characteristics were analyzed. On the basis of IVI Tsuga dumosa was dominant on lower elevation range on both aspects, while Abies spectabilis, was dominant at elevation range 2650m-2850m and 2850m-3050m, whereas, R. arboreum was dominant at elevation range above 3050m in northern aspect. Similarly, A. spectabilis and T. dumosa showed nearly equal dominance at elevation range 2650m-2850m, while A. spectabilis was dominant at elevation range 2850m-3050m and above 3050m in southern aspect. Altogether 40 plant species (13 tree species and 27 plant species in shrub layer) were found in the study area. The tree density of both sites increased with increase in elevation up to 2850m 3050m and decreased. Similarly, the basal area of tree gradually decreased after elevation range 2650m-2850m in both aspects. Comparatively tree density was higher in northern aspect and basal area was higher in southern aspect. Soil was slightly acidic in nature. The distinct variation in soil parameters were not observed in two sites as well as along altitude. Density-diameter curve of all tree species showed sustainable regeneration. But, density-diameter curve of A. spectabilis in both aspects slightly deviated from reverse J shaped structure and hence did not show sustainable regeneration. Seedling density was higher than sapling density. The distribution of seedlings and saplings were not uniform.
ECOLOGICAL STUDY AND DISTRIBUTION OF PTERIDOPHYTE ALONG THE ELEVATIONAL GRADIENT OF PHULCHOWKI HILL, CENTRAL NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Madhikarmi, Anita
The present study aims to find the relationship between pteridophyte richness along the elevational gradients of Phulchowki Hill, Central Nepal. The study was carried out in three elevational zones namely lower (1500-1900 masl), middle (1900-2300 masl) and upper elevation (2300- 2700 masl), starting from 1550 masl and ending to 2698 masl of Phulchowki Hill at an interval of 100 m. Random number of quadrats having 5m × 5m sizes were laid at each elevation band. SPSS- Software and Microsoft Excel were used to perform the statistical analysis. All together 46 (39 terrestrials and 7 epiphytic) pteridophyte species belonging to 28 genera and 14 families have been documented. Among the 14 families Polypodiaceae was found to be the largest family having highest number of genera followed by Pteridiaceae. However, Pteridiaceae was found as largest family on the basis of highest number of species followed by Dryopteridaceae and Polypodiaceae. Plant community properties such as species richness, diversity, and composition vary along environmental gradients. Species richness of tree species showed asymmetric hump shaped pattern of distribution with elevational gradients. The pteridophyte species richness significantly differs along the elevational gradients within different sites. Pteridophyte species like Selaginella chrysocaulis, Dryopteris carolohopei were dominant in lower elevational zone; Polystichum squarrosum, Drynaria moliis were dominant in middle and Polypodiodes hendersonii, Drynaria moliis were observed dominant in upper elevational sites. The Spearman's correlation analysis table shows elevational gradient strongly affects the pteridophytes richnes
IMPACT OF AGERATUM HOUSTONIANUM MILL. INVASION ON PLANT DIVERSITY AND CROPS IN DIFFERENT LAND USE TYPES OF KANCHANPUR, NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) SINGH, SANGITA
Invasive plant species means an alien species which become established in natural or semi-natural ecosystems and threatens native biological diversity. It has high resistant capacity, produce large number of seeds and can grow easily in different types of habitat. It can out-compete native species, reduces wildlife habitat potential, alter ecosystem processes and change soil properties and have great role in land cover change. Ageratum houstonianum is a native species of America that enters to Nepal. It has grown in different land use (agriculture, forest, grassland). Laljhadhi-Mohana Biological corridor (LMBC) is corridor between Suklaphanta national park and Dudhwa national park largest national park of India. Corridor is a pathway of plants and animals so invasive plants species can easily enters. From India to Nepal invasive species can easily enters through corridors and may impact native species diversity. To understand the impact of A. houstoniunum on species diversity, vegetation sampling was done. Altogether 120 plots of size 2m×2m were laid in each sampling site (invaded and non-invaded sites).Different quantitative parameters for vegetation analysis like frequency, density, coverage, IVI, Simpson Index, Shannon Wiener Index were calculated. Results showed that the diversity of non-invaded area was greater than the invaded area. To understand the impact of allelochemical effect of leaf to the crop plant, different concentrations (2, 10, 20, 30, 50%) were prepared. Seed germination of winter and summer crop plant was done in different concentrations of leaf extract and also in control to compare the impact. Germination was significantly inhibited (p=0.05) in higher concentrations (20, 20, 50%) than lower concentrations (2, 10%) of mustard crop. Measurement of radicle and plumule was taken. Growth rate was lower in high concentrations (20, 30, 50%) than low concentrations (2, 10%). Summer crop (maize and paddy) was not affected by allelochemical effect of leaf extract but winter crop (mustard and wheat) was highly affected by allelochemical effect of A. houstonianum.
Impact of Cropping Patterns on seed bank and emergence of Orobanche in infested field.
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) KARN, MAYA
Orobanche is a genus of more than 200 species of parasitic herbaceous plants in the family Orobancheaceae that cause damages to the important vegetables and field crops in many parts of the globe including Nepal. Orobanche is a problematic parasitic weed in tomato and brinjal fields of Lalbandi, a major tomato growing areas in Nepal. Orobanche emergence in the early sown six tomato and one brinjal fields, and in late sown six tomato and one brinjal fields were recorded along with the past history of each fields. The soil samples from these seven early sown and seven late sown fields were collected for the Orobanche seed bank study. The Orobanche seed bank study was conducted using the flotation technique of Ashworth (1976) with some modification (Acharya et al., 2003).From this study on Orobanche emergence at early and late sown tomato and brinjal fields, it can be concluded that the severity of the parasitic weed in a field cannot be ascertain with the Orobanche shoot emergence alone. The Orobanche seed bank study gave the real picture of parasitic weed infestation in the field. In the early sown tomato fields F7,Orobanche seeds/100g soil was significantly lowest, and this filed had a history of only cultivation of cucumber for last 5 years with no winter crops and tomato was grown only after five years as winter crop. This clearly indicates that gapping of tomato cultivation reduces Orobanche seed bank in the fields. Similarly, reduction in Orobanche seed bank was also recorded in early sown fields like F1 and F4, where hand pulling of Orobanche shoot was in practice, as well as have the field history with the intervention of crop rotation with lentil and chickpea, respectively. Among the late sown fields of tomato and brinjal, Orobanche seeds/100gsoil was found to be less than in early sown fields. The Orobanche seeds/100g soil in late sown fields was significantly (P=0,05) low in F5 and F1 which had a history of growing only paddy for last 3 years and 2 years, respectively (with no winter crop), and then tomato was cultivated as winter crop after 3 and 2 years, respectively. This indicated that gapping the cultivation of host plants for some years also helps in reducing the seed bank of parasitic weeds. Beside this when Orobanche seed bank/100 g soil was compared between the paddy and maize fields of early and late sown tomato/brinjal fields, most of the paddy fields were recorded to have less Orobanche seed bank than at the maize fields. From the Orobanche seed bank study of early and late sown tomato and brinjal fields it can be concluded that late sowing helps in reducing the Orobanche seed bank in soil.
Impact of Fire on Plant Diversity, Regeneration, and Carbon Stock in Community Forests at Lamahi, Dang, Nepal
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Pokhrel, Sita
This study investigated the effects of fire on plant species diversity, biomass, and regeneration at Bakena and Sundabari Community Forests, Lamahi, Dang, Nepal. Altogether 30 quadrats that experienced burnt (Sundabari CF) and 30 quadrats that were not exposed to fire (Bakena CF) were laid for the study. A total of 69 plant species, under 32 families, were recorded in this study from the unburnt Bakena Community forest (BCF), whereas 52 plant species, under 27 families were recorded from burnt Sundabari Community forest (SCF). Among these recorded species, 35 species were herbs, 20 species were trees and 14 species were shrubs in the unburnt forest (BCF), whereas in SCF that experienced fire every year had 22 species of herbs, 16 species of shrubs, and 14 species of trees. Tree species like Bombax ceiba, Ficus benjamina, Ficus racemosa, Madhuca longifolia, Mallotus philippenis, Phyllanthu emblica, etc were not recorded in the SCF that were having a fire every year. Similarly, the shrubs like Jasmine sp. Senna occidental, Smilax sp. and Thysanolaena latifolia and herbs like Acmella paniculata, Acorus sp., Ageratum houstonianum, Anaphalis sp., Asplenium sp., etc were not recorded from the SCF (burnt forest). Some of the shrubs and herbs recorded in burnt forest (BF) but absent at unburnt forest (UBF) were Asparagus racemosa, Dioscorea deltoidea, Phyllanthus sp., Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, Adiantum sp., Digitaria sanguinalis, Eulaliopsis binate, Galinsoga sp., etc. The Shannon Weiner diversity index and Simpson diversity index were higher in the non-fire forest (BCF). In the present study, the total density of seedlings, saplings, and trees of all species in UBF were 474.167, 694.167, and 559.167 individuals/ha, respectively whereas in BF seedlings, saplings, and trees were found to be 552.5, 565.83, and 341.667 individuals/ha, respectively. The density of seedlings of Shorea robusta, saplings of Melia azedarach, and trees of Acacia catechu, were found to be higher than other species in BCF i.e unburnt forest. But at SCF, that experience fire every year had the higher density of Acacia catechu seedlings, saplings, and trees than other species. Total Carbon stock in UBF was much higher than at the BF. The total carbon stock in trees of UBF and BF was calculated to be 123.690 t/ha, and 23.133 t/ha respectively. Shorea robusta had the highest biomass in both above and below ground in both forests i.e 72.293 t/ha in above ground and 14.459 t/ha in below ground in NFF (BCF) and 20.439 t/ha above ground and 4.088 t/ha below ground in FF (SCF). Soil organic carbon decreased after a fire. The % of mineralizable N, available P, and extractable K decreased at FF (i.e SCF) but the bulk density increased at the FF (at SCF).
PLANT DIVERSITY ........................
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Sharma, Sharmila
Plant community structure in particular area determines the forest stage and its importance. Different topographical, climatic, edaphic and population factor affects the community composition and its life span. Thus, the present study has aimed to find out the role of different topographical features in species diversity, tree regeneration and total biological carbon stock in the Kaleshwar area of Lalitpur district, Central Nepal. A quantitative study was carried out along the altitudinal gradients at both Northern and Southern aspect of Lahuribina community forest and Gimdi community forest respectively at Kaleshwar area. The study was carried out by using stratified random sampling method. Study area was divided into 5 different altitudinal strata in both the aspects (i.e.1500m-1600m, 1700m-1800m, 1900m-2000m, 2100m-2200m and above 2300m). 10 circular plots of sizes 10m radius for trees, within it, subplots of 5m radius for shrubs including sapling and 1m radius for herbs and seedling were laid in each strata. Regeneration of tree species were calculated by counting the seedlings (height < 20 cm) with in 1 m radius and saplings (height > 20 cm) with in 5m in circular plot. Carbon stock of tree species were calculated with the help of tree DBH and height. Total of 155 plant species were enumerated from north facing aspect, with 42 species of tree, 37 species of shrubs and 76 herbs species. But in southern aspect 134 species were recorded; 32 trees, 37 shrubs and 65 herbs species. Numbers of species were slightly higher in northern aspect than in the southern aspect however, the difference was not significant. There was slight variation in species richness and evenness between two aspects. There was very low number of seedlings than that of sapling and adults along all the altitudinal strata in both the aspects. Carbon stock was higher at 1500m followed by 2100m and 2300m altitudinal strata along northern aspect and at 1700m and 1900m altitude along southern aspect. Study concluded that the altitude and aspect play significant role in plant species diversity, regeneration and carbon stock.
PLANT DIVERSITY AND CARBON STOCK OF TWO COMMUNITY MANAGED FORESTS, KAILALI, WESTERN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) MAHARA, KESHAVI KUMARI
Vegetation study is crucial for the biophysical environment and ecosystem balance. Carbon stock and biodiversity have an intricate relationship. Community forests were functioning to upscale the carbon sequestration as well as the biodiversity. This study is intended to assess the plant diversity and carbon stock of two different types of community forests, Kailali, Western Nepal. Teghari community forest was riverine forest and Durgalaxmi community forest was Sal forest. To assess IVI, species diversity, regeneration and carbon stock altogether 40 sample plots (20 plots in each forest) of 20m radii were studied for trees applying stratified random sampling. Within the 20m radii plots, 3 subplots of 5m radii for shrubs and 3 subplots of 1m radii for herbs were laid. Tree biomass was estimated and regeneration was estimated by calculating the density of each species in seedling, sapling and tree phases. Soil samples were collected from the surface up to 20cm depth. Carbon stock of DCF was found higher 148.75 t/ ha in DCF than 39.30 t/ ha in TCF. The diversity of herbs and shrubs was higher in riverine forest (Teghari community forest) than Sal forest (Durgalaxmi community forest) due to the presence of more open canopy which facilitates understory vegetation like Murraya koenigii and Lantana camara were most common shrub species. Similarly, total species diversity was found higher in riverine Teghari community forest. The index of similarity between two different forests was found to be quite low. The mean value of basal area, DBH, carbon stock was higher in Durgalaxmi community forest compared to Teghari community forest. These results revealed that the ground vegetation and regeneration was high in less dense canopy forest and Sal forest had higher carbon stock than riverine forest.
Population Structure and Microhabitat Preferences of the Himalayan Yew (Taxus wallichiana Zucc.) in Panchase Protected Forest in Central Nepal
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Shrestha, Deepmala
Three species of Taxus occur in Nepal viz, Taxus wallichiana Zucc., Taxus contorta Griff. and Taxus mairei (Lemée and Lév). Taxus wallichiana is an evergreen dioecious plant that thrives under canopy having average life span of 500 years. Non availability of suitable micro-habitat and frugivory declines the number of the species besides its sale for timber. Based on the information collected from the study area, species distribution modeling was implemented in Maxent. Similarly, analysis for the relationships between different variables like temperature, precipitation, soil pH, litter thickness, canopy closure and occurrence of T. wallichiana was performed by using R program. Population of T. wallichiana was found scattered in the study area where it was found between the elevational ranges of 2200m to 2500m. Temperature and precipitation along with other variables had combined role for affecting the micro habitat preferences of T. wallichiana. Our result also showed effects of climate change on distribution of the species. We found that the new possible areas for its distribution will be towards Eastern Nepal. However, there will be no severe effect of climate change in the study area affecting the distribution of T. wallichiana. This study will help in developing new strategies for the conservation and management of T. wallichiana
POPULATION STRUCTURE OF RHODODENDRON ARBOREUM SMITH, AND ASSOCIATED TREE SPECIES ALONG THE ALTITUDINAL GRADIENT IN A MIXED FOREST OF RAINASKOT, LAMJUNG, NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) KHADKA, PRERANA
Population structure is the number of individuals present in each of the definite girth classes of tree species. The main objectives of this study was to determine the population structure and regeneration of Rhododendron arboreum and its associated tree species along the three altitudinal range in a mixed forest of Rainaskot Lamjung. The study area was divided into three altitudinal range: lower (1200-1400masl), middle (1400-1600masl) and upper (1600 -1653masl). Altogether 75 circular quadrants, 25 from each altitudinal range were laid by using random systematic sampling method. Circular plot of 10m radius were laid for the study. Height and Diameter at breast height of the trees (>10cm dbh), associated trees (>10cm dbh), were recorded within main plot. Number of saplings and seedlings were recorded within main plot. Finally five soil samples were prepared from 25 soil samples collected from the center of the main plot within each altitudinal range. Total fifteen soil samples were taken for analysis such as Soil pH, organic matter, soil texture and 3 macro nutrients (NPK). A total of 13 tree species belonging to 11 different families were reported. The species richness in the forest increases with increasing altitude. The most frequent and dense tree species in the forest was R. arboreum with IVI value 77.7 and was present in 93.33% of the total sampling plots. The density of R arboreum was 257.52 individualha-1 with basal area 16.40 m2 ha-1 . In altitude wise comparison of density of R. arboreum with total tree density, upper altitudinal range had (393.28 individualha-1 ), middle altitudinal range (248.19 individualha-1 ), and the lower altitudinal range had (127.28 individualha-1 ). IVI of R. arboreum was quite lower (68.19%) in the lower altitudinal range with compared to middle (70.02%) and upper altitudinal range (105.52%). The R. arboreum shows reverse J-shaped population structure and fair regeneration status in overall forest having higher number of seedlings compared to saplings. However, the numbers of saplings were less than the adults except in lower altitudinal range. The height class distribution of R. arboreum shows a reverse J-shaped distribution with little deviation in the upper altitudinal range. The soil pH of forest was found to be acidic. The seedlings, saplings and adults density were positively correlated with the nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and organic matter except pH, potassium, canopy cover and litter depth. The anthropogenic disturbance, ecological diversity, and soil characteristics are responsible for the variation in population and regeneration attribute of the forest.
Status of ................ at Chapakot
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Adhikari, Roshan
TAXONOMIC REVISION OF THE GENUS Calanthe R. Br. (ORCHIDACEAE) IN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Duwal, Rina
Calanthe is the terrestrial orchid with a distinguishing character of a plicate, linear to broad leaves, 8 pollinia in 2 groups, and the genus mostly occurs in moist and humid dense forest floors. The genus was closely related to previously known genus Phaius and after the merge of these two genera in 2020 by Chase et al. the nomenclatural stability is maintained. This study is based on all the species of these taxa that are naturally distributed in Nepal. This taxonomic revisionary study is based on the herbarium specimens and fresh plant materials. The herbarium specimens are thoroughy studied from KATH and TUCH. And the examination of available images of herbarium specimens collected from Nepal are also done in international herbaria like; BM, E, K and TI. This study confirms the presence of 15 species of Calanthe in Nepal namely; C. alpina, C. arcuata, C. brevicornu, C. chloroleuca, C. davidii, C. densiflora, C. griffithii, C. mannii, C. masuca, C. plantaginea, C. puberula, C. tankervilleae, C. tricarinata, C. trulliformis and C. woodfordii. Among these 15 species, 2 species are later added from previously known genus ‘Phaius’; C. tankervilleae and C. woodfordii. The synonyms, type specimens, description, ecology, altitudinal range, flowering season, specimens examined and distribution map for all the species present in Nepal is prepared. Also, the illustration and bracketed taxonomic key is made to identify the species. The character of lip is more important in taxonomic view point for delimiting the species of this genus. Additionally, the cladistic analysis is also interpreted to find out the phylogenetic relationship between the species. The cladogram showed that C. chloroleuca and C. plantaginea are closely related species. Similarly, the study also portrayed the closest relationship between C. tankervilleae and C. woodfordii. The genus Calanthe is found to be distributed in all 3 regions of Nepal with the altitudinal range from 200 m to 3300 m in 31 districts of Nepal. The peak flowering season of this genus is May to August and more than half of species of Calanthe in Nepal have flowering time in these months.
TAXONOMIC REVISION OF THE GENUS Peristylus Blume (ORCHIDACEAE) IN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) SHAKYA, PUSHPA
Not included
TAXONOMIC REVISION OF THE GENUS LIPARIS RICH. (ORCHIDACEAE) IN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Dhakal, Ekata
The genus Liparis Rich. (tribe Malaxideae) comprises over 400 terrestrial and epiphytic species with small pseudobulbs and thin coriaceous leaf mostly arising from the apex of pseudobulb. The members of Liparis are distributed widely in tropical, subtropical and temperate areas of the world. In Nepal, the genus is distributed throughout Western, Central and Eastern region of the country with altitudinal ranging from 400 to 3900m. The genus Liparis was kept close to other genera i.e. Malaxis and Oberonia by most of the taxonomists, the characters similar in between them were presence of basal leaves, leaves arising from the apex of the pseudobulb, plants without long stem, and presence of four pollinia in their column. This revisionary work is mainly based on examination of herbarium specimens from National and International Herbaria and is also supported by observations of plants in nature during field visit. The characters studied are habit and habitat, shape and size of pseudobulb, phyllotaxy, leaves, inflorescence, bracts, flowers, sepals, petals, lip, column and capsules. Apart from morphology, cladistic and phenological study was also done. Additionally identification key, description, illustration and distribution map of each species are provided. This study confirms the presence of 20 species Liparis i.e. L. bootanensis, L. caespitosa, L. cathcartii, L. cordifolia, L. deflexa, L. elliptica, L. glossula, L. langtangensis, L. nervosa, L. odorata, L. olivaceae, L. perpusilla, L. petiolata, L. plantaginea, L. platyrachis, L. pygmaea, L. resupinata, L. rostrata, L. stricklandiana, L. viridiflora and one variety of the genus L. nervosa var. khasiana. These species are divided in 2 sections i.e. Mollifolliae and Corrifoliae. The cladistic analysis provides the inter-relationship between the species reported from Nepal and divided them into clades and subclades. Length of column, resupination of flowers and habitat are the diagnostic characters of Liparis which separate it from Malaxis and Oberonia. As this study will help to update the checklist and play a significant role in preparation of Flora of Nepal.
TREE DIVERSITY, CARBON STOCK AND REGENERATION PATTERN IN SHOREA ROBUSTA GAERTN. FORESTS ALONG THE ALTITUDINAL GRADIENT IN EASTERN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Chaudhary, Sujan
The forest with good regeneration can store a sufficient amount of carbon. The Shorea robusta Gaertn. (Sal) forests of Nepal are facing the problem of poor regeneration. The present study aimed to find out the tree diversity, carbon stock and regeneration status of Shorea robusta forests along an altitudinal gradient in eastern Nepal. The study was conducted in three community forests of Sunsari and Dhankuta District. The forests were Ramdhuni Kalijhora community forest (82-170 m a.s.l.), Patrangbari community forest (440-695 m a.s.l.) and Khanidada Malbase community forest (650-990 m a.s.l.) which were regarded as lower, middle and upper altitudinal range forest respectively in the present study. The stratified random sampling method was used for the sampling. Altogether, 90 circular plots (30 in each forest) were laid for trees and saplings each and 180 plots were (60 in each forest) laid for seedlings. Physico-chemical parameters (Nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, organic matter, moisture, pH and bulk density) were analyzed from all 90 plots. The present investigation has recorded 43 tree species under 25 families and 35 genera. The Dominance-Diversity curve (DD curve) showed the highest IVI of Shorea robusta in all three altitudinal ranges. The value of Shannon Diversity index was higher in high altitudinal range (1.078) followed by low (0.966) and middle altitudinal range (0.833). Species richness increased with increasing altitudes (from 82 m to 990 m a.s.l). The tree carbon stock ranged from 134 – 372 t ha–1 .Similarly soil carbon stock was higher in high altitudinal range (60.03 t ha–1 ) and lower in middle altitudinal range (27.69 t ha–1 ). The seedling of Shorea robusta was higher in low altitudinal range and lower in high altitudinal range. Contrast results were obtained for sapling i.e. lower in low and middle altitudinal ranges and higher in high altitudinal range. The regeneration of Shorea robusta was affected by various edaphic factors and anthropogenic activities. The regeneration status of seedlings and trees in the forests was healthy but poor in terms of saplings. Organic matter, nitrogen and sand percentage were positively correlated to altitudinal range. However, potassium, pH, silt and clay content showed a negative correlation with altitudinal ranges. Bulk density and moisture content were negatively correlated. Therefore, the establishment of seedlings to saplings in the study areas was very crucial for the sustainability of forests.
Understorey vegetation and its relation with the recognition of ..........
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Yadav, Namrata
Understorey vegetation is as important as overstorey vegetation in forests as it facilities overall regeneration and has crucial role in nutrient cycling. Understorey vegetation largely affects the regeneration of dominant tree species in forests, but little is known about such impacts. In this context, this research work was carried to assess the impacts of understorey vegetation on regeneration of Quercus semecarpifolia, and the effects of environmental factors on understorey vegetation and regeneration in Langtang National Park and its buffer zone of Central Nepal. Altogether, 308 plots of 1m×1m for shrubs and 77 plots of 1m×1m plots for herbs were used for data collection from which 160 plots were established in the national park and 148 plots were established in the buffer zone for shrubs species. Similarly, 40 plots were established at the National Park area and 37 plots were established at buffer zone areas for the herb species. Importance Value Index (IVI) of herbs and shrubs species, p-value and correlation of understorey vegetation with seedlings and saplings of dominant tree species, and soil attributes was analyzed. A total of 17 species of shrubs belonging to 12 families were recorded inside the national park and 29 species of shrubs belonging to 14 families in the buffer zone area. Similarly, altogether 30 species of herbs belonging to 17 families were recorded inside the national park and 30 species of herbs belonging to 18 families in the buffer zone area. Simpson’s index of diversity and Shannon-Wiener index of diversity of shrubs species inside the national park were found to be 0.9069 and 2.523, while those values for buffer zone were found to be 0.887 and 2.517, respectively. Similarly, Simpson’s index of diversity and Shannon-Wiener index of diversity of herb species in the national park were found to be 0.9415 and 3.0849, respectively while those values for buffer zone were found to be 0.9201 and 2.9849. There was no significant correlation between understorey species richness and organic matter content, soil pH and soil nutrients (N, P, K) and also the relationship was not observed between understorey vegetation with the seedling and sapling of Quercus semecarpifolia.
VEGETATION STATUS, COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE OF MALIKA FOREST, BAGLUNG, WESTERN NEPAL
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) GAIRE, NISHA
There is the importance of structurally diverse forests for the conservation of biodiversity and provision of a wide range of ecosystem services. The frequency, diversity, density, IVI, Carbon stock and soil nutrient factors of two altitudinal range i.e 1600-2000m and 2000-2400m were quantify to investigate the vegetation diversity of Malika Community Forest. Systematic random sampling was applied for vegetation analysis. Circular quadrat method was used in the field for the observation. The altitude wise collected data was divided into two altitudinal range (1600-2400m). Altogether 70 main quadrats were studied from these two altitudes. For Tree species, altogether 140 quadrats (70X2) were laid for shrub species and 210 quadrats (70X3) for herb species were laid. Circular plot of 10m² radius were laid for the study. Number of seedlings and saplings were also recorded within main plot. Community structured was studies by using vegetation quantitative characters (frequency, density, IVI), carbon stock analysis and regeneration. Total 16 soil samples were prepared for laboratory analyses which were collected from center of each quadrat. For soil analysis both physical as well as chemical parameters like the N, P, K, soil pH, organic matter and soil texture of the soil were tested. In the present study, the tree species diversity decreased from lower to highest altitudes. Between two altitudinal range, the highest frequencies among shrubs was of Rubus ellipticus in lower altitude and of Prunus sp in upper altitude whereas Artemisia indica and Cynodon dactylon which was 34% in lower altitude whereas Stellaria media and Cyperus rotundus has highest frequencies (42%) in upper altitude among herbs and highest frequency was of Pinus among trees. The highest diversity was found among herbs species i.e H=2.97 in low altitudinal range whereas highest diversity in shrubs species in upper altitudinal range of 2000-2400m i.e, H=2.66. In the studied area the highest IVI for herbs was of Stellaria media, Arisaema toftuosum, Ageratina adenophora. Dicranopteris and for shrubs the highest IVI was of Lyonia ovalifolia and Rhus javanica. Among the tree species Pinus roxburghii scored highest IVI recorded as from 2000-2400m. The density of seedlings and saplings of P. roxburghii were highest in both altitudes. The highest carbon stock was reported in P. roxburghii. The tree and shrub species richness increased from lower to higher altitudes.
WATER QUALITY MONITORING OF BAGMATI RIVER BASIN, KATHMANDU VALLEY
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Pokhrel, Keshab
The Bagmati River in the Kathmandu Valley flows along the core urban areas. The main aim of the study was to estimate 14 parameters water pH (pH), total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity (Turb), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), total phosphorus (TP), faceal coliform (FC), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd) to assess the water quality of the Bagmati River. The surface water samples were collected from 11 sites in the Bagmati River during the pre-monsoon season. The highest DO record was found at headwater Sundarijal (8 mg/L) where 50% of the samples had DO less than 3 mg/L. Meanwhile, turbidity, TSS, and TDS ranged from 3 to 600 NTU, 12 to 740 mg/L and 58 to 612 mg/L respectively. All the samples were contaminated from the faceal coliforms. High BOD and COD were observed in the much-populated core urban area due to wastewater and organic load. Similarly, among 5 heavy metals tested Fe and Cu were only detected in the samples. Fe exceeds the WHO limits while Cu is within the guidelines. Only 2 clusters were obtained from cluster analysis in which C2 had a high value of all parameters except DO indicating towards polluted station i.e BA09. Meanwhile, correlation analysis between BOD and COD with TP and Cu defined wastewater and organic loads are the main sources for the high concentration of these water quality parameters.
WEED DIVERSITY AND SEED BANK STUDIES IN DIFFERENT AGRICULTURE FIELDS IN SOME AREAS OF BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT
(Amrit Campus, 2023-08-14) Prajapati, Sharmila
Weeds in agricultural fields reduces crop yields by competating in nutrients, sunlight, and moisture, among other things.Weeds have the ability to produce a huge number of seeds, and propagate rapidly in agricultural fields due to presence of congenial environment and ultimately reduces crop yield. The weeds present in different fields may be different due to agricultural practices and crops grown there. The aim of present study was to compare the weed diversity in different agricultural fields having cultivation of wheat, cabage and potato. Besides this the aim of this study was also to find out differences in seed bank at different agriculture fields of Bhaktapur. To understand this five different sites (Sudal, Wonti, Chitapole, Gundu, and Jhaukhel) of Bhaktapur district were selected as theses places were having similar crops and agricultural practices. From each sites potato, cabbage and wheat fields were selected for weed diversity and seed bank study in January to Februrary of the year 2020 and 2021. The study of weed diversity was conducted using quadrats of 2×2m2 in both years whereas the study of seed bank was conducted only in 2021. For seed bank study, soil samples from each field was collected using composite sampling, then the seed germination was observed in the collected soil samples by spreading it on plastic plate along with regular watering after 2nd weeks from February 16 th to March 27th 2021. Altogether 49 weed species belonging to 16 families were found in three different agriculture fields. Among them 47 were found in first year and 49 were found in second year. Asteraceae (16) was the dominant family followed by poaceae (8). Poa annua, Soliva anthemifolia, Stellaria media, Chenopodium album, Persicaria hydropiper were the most dominant species as their IVI and weed density/m2 were high in most of the sites except Jhaukhel. Spergula arvensis scored highest IVI and highest weed density/m2 in wheat field of Jhaukhel. The weed density in agriculture fields were increased in second year in compare to first year. From the seed bank study, altogether 1023 seeds of 37 weed species belonging to 15 families were recorded in soil. The dominant families in soil seed bank were Poaceae, Asteracea and Caryophyllaceae. The most abundant species recorded in soil seed bank were Poa annua, Stellaria media, Soliva anthemifolia. Emergence of Cynodon dactylon, Poa annua, Stellaria uliginosa and Persicaria hydropiper were not significantly different at P=0.05 in all selected sites in potato field. Emergence of common weeds Poa annua, Soliva anthemifolia, Stellaria media, Chenopodium album, Persicaria hydropiper were significantly different at P=0.05 in all selected sites in cabbage field and wheat field. Weed seed density of three different agriculture fields in selected sites were insignificantly different. Weed species diversity was high in Gundu whereas it was low in wheat and potato fields of Jhaukhel. But high weed diversity was recorded at cabbage fields of Jhaukhel and low diversity was found in cabbage fields of Wonti. Weed seed bank diversity was high in Gundu and low in Wonti. The similariy index of weeds in agriculture fields and soil seed bank is high in cabbage field of Chitapole and low in wheat field of Jhaukhel. Species richness of soil seed bank followed the same pattern as in fields, with the highest richness in Gundu and lowest richness in Wonti. From both field studies and seed bank study by germination method, weed species richness was found to be high at wheat field and low at cabbage fields. The Shannon diversity index was found to be higher in seed banks than in agricultural field weeds, indicating the importance of seeds in the soil as a reservoir of biodiversity. The similarity index of weeds in cabbage fields and soil seed bank were foud to be highest (86.96%). Some of the weeds like Rorripa palustris, and Amaranthus spinosus, of which A. spinosus is an invasive species, were recorded in the soil seed bank study only but were not found in field study. This finding indicated the possibilities of invasive weed infestation in the agriculture field in future. From this it is evident that the study of a weed seed bank is important as it provided more information about the weed seed infestations at present and also warns us for the future as well.

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