Macro-ecology and biogeography of soil nematodes in Pir Panjal range of Jammu and Kashmir Himalaya, India

The Himalayan region holds significant ecological importance and plays a crucial role in biomonitoring ecosystems. The present study to investigate the Effects of various factors, including latitude, climate, and vegetation, on the diversity and geographic distribution patterns of soil-inhabiting nematodes in the Pir Panjal range of the Jammu and Kashmir Himalayas, India. Soil Samples were collected from forests, agricultural fields, and grasslands in temperate and subtropical regions, along an altitude gradient (1000 to 2300m) and a latitudinal gradient (33º 32 'N to 33º 48' N). A Significant variation among different vegetation types and number of genera and abundance of nematodes was determined by Regression Analysis and A one-way ANOVA followed by T test. A Correlation Coefficient Analysis between various ecological indices like Maturity Index (MI), Diversity Indices (Shannon-Weaver, Simpson, Hills N1 and N2), Trophic structure Indices (Enrichment Index, Structure Index) and latitude were performed. The Maturity Index decreased (r= -0.645) in higher latitudes, accompanied by an increase in microbial activity, indicating a less disturbed environment. The higher values of the Enrichment Index (EI) and Structure Index (SI) at lower latitudes indicated higher opportunists and an indicator of food web state, respectively. The Linear regression model showed a significant relationship between soil nematode trophic guilds and latitude and precipitation. It reflects higher nutrient mineralization and productivity in areas with higher precipitation. The highest mean value of nematode abundance in temperate region and genera in subtropical areas explains the trophic guild status.