Diversity, Distribution, Indigenous Uses and Conservation of Orchids in Parvati Valley of Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh, Northwestern Himalaya

Abstract

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is known as the repository of biodiversity. It supports 8,000 species of angiosperms. The orchidaceae is among the dominant family of angiospecies and highly evolved family among the monocotyledon. The species of this family are facing tremendous pressure due to habitat degradation, overexploitation and changing environmental conditions. Therefore, while exploring the floristic diversity of Parvati Valley, attempts have also been made to explore the orchid diversity and analyze for diversity, distribution patterns, nativity, endemism, threat categories and indigenous uses. Total 19 species of the orchids representing 13 genera were recorded between 1100-3600 m amsl. Of these, 13 species were natives, 6 species near endemic and 5 species non-natives. These species represented in grassland, shady moist, forests, alpine meadows, moist rocks and bouldary habitats. These species were used for curing various diseases/ailments by the inhabitants of the valley. Due to habitat degradation the populations of these species are decreasing fast. The over exploitation, habitat degradation and changing environmental conditions of these species has led rapid population depletion. Therefore, appropriate strategy has been suggested for the conservation and management of these orchids.

Epiphytic Orchid Diversity along an Altitudinal Gradient in Central Nepal

“…[61] or 1801-2800 m a.s.l. [59]. The observed differences in distribution patterns are because of differences in altitude coverage and differences in topography and climate of our and their study areas.…”

“…[49,50]. In addition to this, though there are several studies related to different plant groups along an altitudinal gradient in Nepal [25,[50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57] and in India [23,[58][59][60][61], epiphytic vascular plants along an altitudinal gradient are widely neglected.…”