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Abstract

Oaks are climax-forming species found at various elevations in the Himalayas between 2100– 2700 masl. However, aspect-wise regeneration patterns of Quercus floribunda in the Nainital catchment remain poorly documented. While previous studies focused on oak forest structure, the present study provides new insight into aspect-wise variation in the regeneration stages of Q. floribunda in relation to microclimatic conditions. The present study aims to evaluate tree composition and the regeneration status of Q. floribunda forests across different slope aspects in the Nainital catchment area of the Kumaun Himalaya. Four sites representing different slope aspects were selected in the Nainital catchment. Soil pH, soil moisture, slope angle and canopy cover were measured as microclimatic variables. Quadrats were laid to estimate density, basal area and Importance Value Index (IVI) of trees, saplings, and seedlings. The North-East aspect exhibited the highest tree density of Q. floribunda (905 ind/ha) and maximum sapling density (470 ind/ha). However, the highest basal area (38 m²/ha) and IVI (207.07) were recorded on the South-East aspect, indicating more favourable microclimatic conditions. The highest seedling density (193.33 ind/ha) was also observed on the South-East aspect. Overall regeneration of Q. floribunda was fair across all aspects; poor seedling-to-sapling conversion was particularly evident on the South-East aspect, indicating regeneration constraints linked to microclimatic conditions such as lower soil moisture and canopy cover, rather than complete recruitment failure. These constraints may relate to unmeasured biotic and climatic factors such as grazing, seed predation, and irregular mast years. These findings support aspect-specific management strategies, including conservation of regeneration cohorts and reduction of grazing pressure in Q. floribunda forests in the Himalayas. Findings highlight the need for aspect-specific management strategies, including regulation of grazing pressure, protection of regeneration cohorts during favourable years, and restoration of vulnerable aspects. The findings of this study provide evidence to support conservation planning and sustainable management of oak forests in the Himalayan ecosystem.

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