Floristic composition in silvipastoral systems of Himachal Pradesh, North Western Himalayas

Silvipastoral land use systems are one of the most socially accepted agroforestry system types of Himachal Pradesh, which contributes significantly in fulfilling daily livelihood needs, conservation of soil and water, improving soil fertility and in climate change mitigation. Therefore, the present study was conducted in silvipastoral systems existing in different agroclimatic zones of Himachal Pradesh to assess the floristic composition and to suggest suitable management options. Agroclimatic zone I and II were found richer in plant diversity with the presence of 278 species each representing 38 trees, 54 shrubs and 186 herbs and 40 trees, 55 shrubs, 183 herbs respectively. Whereas agroclimatic zone III, showed representation of 257 species 19 trees, 41 shrubs, 197 herbs, and in zone IV, representing with 233 species, 17 trees, 20 shrubs, 196 herbs were found. Among these, 54 species were categorized under threaten status based on IUCN’. Therefore, assessment of natural populations, demand and supply studies, harvesting trends, developments of propagation methods, plantation of highly preferred species and community awareness for sustainable utilization and conservation has been suggested.