Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt - ii halictrum sp. Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP) Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management Department Government of Sikkim Dendrobium nobile Published by : Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP) Department of Forests, Environment and Wildlife Management, Government of Sikkim, Deorali, Gangtok - 737102, Sikkim, India All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management, Government of Sikkim, Enquiries concerning reproduction outside the scope of the above should be sent to the Project Director, Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project, Department of Forests, Environment and Wildlife Management, Government of Sikkim. Citation: Bharat Kr. Pradhan, Suraj Subba, Sabita Dahal, Dorjee Chewang, Meena Tamang (2015). Rapid Biodiversity Survey Report - II. Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP), FEWMD. Government of Sikkim, Deorali, Gangtok, East Sikkim. Photo Credit: Bharat Kr. Pradhan, Suraj Subba, Dorjee Chewang, Sabita Dahal, Nima Lepcha, Mika Lepcha, Dupden Lepcha. 4 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Contents Page No. 7 Message 8 Foreword 9 preface 10 acknowledgement 11 introduction 13 inventory and Monitoring of Biodiversity 14 tholung - Kishong sampling path, Khangchendzonga National park, North sikkim 49 shingba Rhododendron sanctuary - shiv Mandir sampling path, North sikkim 74 Rapid Biodiversity survey with special focus on Rhododendron niveum 94 annexure - i 96 annexure - ii 111 annexure - iii 112 annexure - iv 119 annexure - v 127 annexure - vi 128 publications under sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management project Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 5 Bistorta ainis, holukpe (KNP), Upper Dzongu, North Sikkim 6 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Message Sikkim is known the world over for its biodiversity richness and cultural uniqueness. This fact is the basis of our inspiration to propose for the inscription of our Khangchendzonga National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site based on its Outstanding Universal Value on both cultural and natural criteria. The interrelated nature of biological diversity, traditional knowledge and culture necessitate a comprehensive approach to the conservation of biological diversity. The loss of cultural diversity has been directly linked to loss of biodiversity. Biodiversity is the foundation of a healthy ecosystem and sustainable human development. It is due to the richness and variety of life on earth which makes it possible for us humans to utilize the ecosystem services. Hence it is crucial that regular monitoring and documentation of changes in structure, function and composition of our eco-systems is carried out so that remedial actions can be planned well in advance to prevent irreversible degradation. Exploration of our loral and faunal wealth is an ongoing exercise for forest, environment and wildlife management. Data and information collection is a constant process and Rapid Biodiversity Survey is one such important tool to document information from the ield and contribute in determining best management practices, for biodiversity conservation. I am pleased to release the book titled “Rapid Biodiversity Survey Report – II” on this occasion of the “International conference on conservation of natural and cultural values of Khangchendzonga National Park”. The compilation of such scientiic data is of utmost importance to verify changes in biodiversity and thereby determine the status of our ecosystem and aid policy makers to formulate best practices towards conservation of our biological diversity. I wish the Department of Forests, Environment & Wildlife Management all success in their future endeavours and urge its oficers to take into consideration the ine linkage of natural and cultural factors when determining best biodiversity conservation initiatives and policies in the State. (Pawan Chamling) Chief Minister of Sikkim Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 7 Foreword It gives me immense pleasure to present the Rapid Biodiversity Survey Report – II. The irst report was released by the Honourable Chief Minister on the 10th March 2015. I am glad that the part II of the same report is being released on this prestigious occasion of the “International conference on conservation of natural and cultural values of Khangchendzonga National Park.” T.W. Lepcha There is growing scientiic consensus that climate induced changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services are occurring. The study and measurement of effects of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem is a challenging task. Changes in species composition and habitat can only be determined if accurate baseline date is available. This Rapid Biodiversity Survey Report will provide additional guidance to forest managers for better planning and ield implementation. In fact such surveys should be undertaken every few years to determine any noticeable changes. I am certain that report will be of immense help to students, researchers, policy planners, tourists and civil society. The forest department has through the Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation & Forest Management Project initiated the process of scientiically collecting basic line data of the forest biodiversity and I sincerely appreciate their efforts. I wish the SBFP team all success in collecting and collating such crucial data that should ind its use in developing a policy framework that recognizes the inter-dependence of climate-change, biodiversity and ecosystem services. (T.W. Lepcha) Minister for Forests Environment & Wildlife Management Department/Mines, Minerals & Geology,Science and Technology Department, Government of Sikkim. 8 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii preface Sikkim is a small Himalayan State spanning 7,096 sq.km. in area with unique geomorphic features and an altitudinal gradient ranging from 2,000 ft to over 15,000 ft. The State is characterized by moderately high rainfall and near-pristine environmental conditions over most part of its area. These features provide ideal conditions for a wide variety of lora and fauna to thrive in the State and hence are responsible for its biodiversity richness. Dr. homas Chandy The JICA assisted Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project was initiated in the year 2010 in the State of Sikkim. The major objective of the project as the name signiies is biodiversity conservation. Biodiversity is the variety of life forms on earth and the ecosystem services it provides is most fundamental to human survival; therefore its sustainable management is most essential. This project has been formulated keeping in mind the interdependence of people and biodiversity. It strives for sustainable management of forest resources by promoting alternate means of livelihood that is directly dependent on the conservation of biodiversity like eco-tourism and joint forest management. It has been planned to conduct Rapid Biodiversity Survey all over Sikkim and designate speciic areas that represent fragile biodiversity as “Conservation reserves”. One important discovery made during one such survey was the discovery of Rhododendron mekongense in the Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary. This species had been earlier reported only in China and Arunachal Pradesh. The present edition of the Rapid Biodiversity Survey report is the second in a series of reports that will cover almost all of the protected areas of the State. We hope that through this survey the Department is able to utilize the data in better management of our natural resources. (Dr. homas Chandy) IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest-cum Principal Secretary, Sikkim Conservation and Forest Management Project, Forest Environment & Wildlife Management Department. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 9 acknowledgement This book titled the “Rapid Biodiversity Survey- Report II” is part of the report that was released by the Honorable Chief Minister, Shri Pawan Chamling on the 18th February 2015. This, in order to make available to forest managers and planners handy reference of baseline data for effective forest resource management by providing a broad information base by way of inventory. The making and compilation of this book consumed a lot of hard work, research and dedication. It would not have been possible without the support of many individuals and organizations and acknowledging each one will not be possible. However on behalf of the Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project, Department of Forests, Environment and Wildlife Management, Government of Sikkim, I would like to acknowledge the signiicant contribution of the following institutions and individuals. Firstly we are thankful to Japanese International Co-operation Agency for their support and providing necessary guidance concerning project implementation. To our GIS and Survey team of SBFP, heartfelt thanks for their wonderful inputs and their support in ield work. A big thank to Ms. Sabita Dahal, Junior Research Fellow (SBFP) for her contribution. Last but not the least, special thanks to Dr. Bharat Kumar Pradhan, Survey Expert (SBFP) to whom the credit goes for compilation of this report. Without whose dedication, competence, diligence and hard work, this report may not have been possible. We hope that he continues to make signiicant contributions in this ield so that the project is able to achieve signiicant milestones. Dechen Lachungpa Divisional Forest Oficer SBFP (BC & NE). 10 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii introduction Sikkim is the 22nd State and the 2nd smallest state of Indian Union with only 7096 sq. km. total geographical area. It is located in the Eastern Himalaya and is a part of the IndoBurmese biodiversity hot-spot. The state has unique geographical features having wide range in altitude (220 m asl to 8598 m asl), high precipitation, etc., which makes it a home to a rich diversity of lora and fauna from tropical region to arctic region.. The state has 82.31 percent of the total geographical area under the forest cover, which is highest in the country, harbouring approximately 4500 species of lowering plants (26 percent of the country). There are a record of >450 tree species, 38 species of rhododendrons, >500 species of medicinal plants, 523 orchid species, 362 species of fern and its allies, 8 tree fern species, 11 oak species, 16 conifer species, 23 bamboo species, 60 primula species and 150 species of wild edible plants. Sikkim is famous for its orchids and rhododendrons and harbors 72 percent of the rhododendron species of the country. For its loral richness, several botanical explorations have been made in Sikkim by famous botanist and naturalist from all over the world including Sir J.D. Hooker, Sir G. King, C.B. Clarke, G.H. Cave, W.W. Smith, and J.M. Cowan who accounted their collection in different books. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 11 Sikkim is a home to several endemic loral species, viz. Abies densa, Acronema pseudotenera, Anaphalis cavei, Anemone demissa, Betula utilis, Bulbophyllum trichocephalum var. capitatum, Calanthe anjanii, Calanthe yuksomnensis, Coelogyne treutleri, Cremastra appediculata var. sonamii, Cymbidium whiteae, Dendrobium eriilorum var. sikkimensis, Larix grifithii, Mahonia sikkimensis, Pantlingia paradoxa, Podophyllum sikkimense, Rhododendron sikkimense, Rhododendron baileyi, Rhododendron camelliilorum, Rhododendron ciliatum, Rhododendron glaucophyllum, Rhododendron grande, Rhododendron lanatum, Rhododendron lindleyi, Rhododendron wallichii, Rhododendron wightii, etc. The state harbours wide variety of faunal diversity, which includes 150 species of mammal, 552 species of birds, 700 species of butterlies and 1500 species of moth, 29 species of reptiles, 10 amphibian species and over 48 ish species. Amongst the important and rare animals found in Sikkim, the Snow leopard (Uncia uncia), Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), Musk deer (Moschus sp.), Barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), Himalayan Thar (Hemitragus jemlahicus), Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur), Serow (Capricornis milneedwardsii), Tibetan Gazella (Procapra picticaudata), Tibetan wolf (Canis lupus chanco), Himalayan black bear (Ursus thibetanus), Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), Leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), Jungle cat (Felis chaus), Himalayan marmot (Marmota himalayana), etc. are prominent. Many of these species are now listed in the IUCN red data book. Some of these animals have also been included in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, including the Blue sheep, Clouded leopard, Himalayan Thar, Musk deer and Red Panda. 12 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sikkim also represents the highest bird richness in terms of total geographical area. About 50 percent of the bird species of the Indian sub-continent (1400 species) are present in Sikkim. The Blood Pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus), Crimson horned Pheasant (Tragopan satyra), Forest eagle owl (Bubo nipalensis), Himalayan golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos daphanea), Monal Pheasant (Lophophorus impejanus), Lammergeyer (Streptopelia orientalis), Tibetan snowcock (Tetraogallus tibetanus), etc., are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It has also been reported that species like the Black necked Crane (Grus nigricollis), the Himalayan Griffon Vulture (Gyps himalayensis), the Tibetan Snowcock (Tetraogallus tibetanus), Snow Partridge (Lerwa lerwa), Snow Pigeon (Columba leuconota), Snow Finch (Montifringilla sp.), Mountain Finch (Leucosticte brandti), etc., have become endangered in Sikkim. In order to protect the rich biodiversity of the state, 46.93% of the total geographical area has been brought under the Protected Area Network (PAN). This includes the Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (the highest Biosphere Reserve in the country), Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Kitam Bird Sanctuary and Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary. Khangchendzonga National Park (the core zone of KBR) with its Outstading Universal Value in terms of both cultural and natural has been proposed to be nominated as a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site and so far the KNP has been included in the UNESCOs tentative list. inventory and Monitoring of Biodiversity Biodiversity Conservation which aims to enhance the global, social and economic value of biodiversity and improve livelihoods in and around protected areas (PAs), buffer zones and reserve forests. It seeks to achieve this objective through the establishment and implementation of sound management plans and the dissemination of biodiversity information for promoting public awareness on the signiicance of biodiversity. It is one of the 05 different components of JICA assisted SBF Project, having different sub-components including Inventory and Monitoring of Biodiversity; the basic objectives of which are 1. To develop baseline information on key biological elements in forest, alpine, freshwater and agro ecosystem for monitoring and evaluation of the impacts of forest and biodiversity management. 2. To identify critical areas that requires immediate protection. To achieve these objectives, Rapid Biodiversity Survey will be conducted by laying 1000 random plots in whole of the sate of Sikkim covering all the four ecosystems. Simultaneously, 300 additional plots in the known biodiversity hotspot of the state will be laid covering all the four ecosystems. The output of the same will be 1. Generation of biodiversity information on four ecosystems to be used in the production of thematic maps for management so that key areas are protected; 2. Stored at the GIS/RS laboratory Rapid biodiversity Survey (RBS) is being carried out in different parts of Sikkim. In the irst phase, protected areas were targeted for carrying out the survey. Prior to the RBS, there has been a long series of studies undertaken to document the biological wealth of Sikkim and the RBS is envisage in building upon this. This report is actually the Part II or the second series of the earlier report published ie. Rapid Biodiversity Survey – I. This earlier report was released in the 10th March 2015 by the Honourable Chief Minister, Governmnet of Sikkim. Since studies and surveys related to biodiversity is a continuous process, this report in addition to containing the reports of survey of new locatons also has an enhanced version of the earlier reports. Similar such reports will be compiled in the future as and when the Rapid Biodiversity Survey is undertaken in select locations. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 13 tholung – Kishong sampling path, Khangchendzonga National park, North sikkim Team: Dr. Bharat Kumar Pradhan, Suraj Subba, Dorjee Chewang Bhutia View of Lingzya Village, Upper Dzongu Introduction Dzongu, the homeland for the original inhabitants of Sikkim, the Lepchas, lies in the north district of Sikkim. Dzongu landscape, as a whole, spreads along 700 m asl to 6000 m asl, belonging to different ecological zone falling within and outside the boundary of Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve / Khangchendzonga National Park, representing tropical forests to alpine pastures. 14 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii It holds striking beauty, with pristine glacial streams, countless waterfalls and hot springs but very tough landscapes to access. A major portion of area is covered by thick virgin forests harbouring astonishing loral and faunal diversity. Physiographically, the area is characterized by diverse snowy mountainous landscape with steep and narrow valleys and gorges. Dzongu valley is the special reserve area designated for the Lepcha tribe and has its historic and cultural signiicances, as the Lepcha is considered to be the original inhabitant or indigenous tribe of Sikkim is believed to have settled in Sakyong village in Dzongu. The Rong-kup or Lepcha claims that they have originated from “Ney Meyel Lyang” (the land of hidden paradise), “Ne Male Lyang” (land of internal purity), a legendry kingdom on the slope of Kongchen-chu, as pronounced by the Lepchas for Mt. Khangchendzonga (Pradhan and Badola 2008). They consider Kong-chen-chu as their guardian deity and believe it to be the eldest son of the Nature god. When the then capital of Sikkim, Yuksom, faced frequent threats of being attacked by the Gorkhas from adjacent Nepal, Lama Lhatsun Chempo, one of the 3 monks who consecrated the irst Chogyal / Spiritual leader of Sikkim had made his way to north Sikkim with all the important relics via the same route. It was him who built the Tholung Gumpa (Monastery) in early 18th century to hide the sacred Buddhist and Sikkim relics from the Gorkhas. Now those relics are kept in Tholung Gumpa (ca. 2500 m asl) under the Ecclesiastical Department (Government of Sikkim) and are taken out once in every 3 years in the presence of Lamas and the oficials of concerned Department during the month of April. To witness the same, believers from Dzongu as well as from far off places including Darjeeling and Kalimpong (West Bengal) assemble at the Tholung Gumpa. Lepcha tribe believes that, whoever comes to visit Tholung Gumpa has to seek permission from the Nature god at Tumlong Nay situated at an altitude of ca. 2000 m asl in the midst of lush green oak forest. The same is believed to be the protecting deity of the Tholung Gumpa. If one fails to do so, he will have to face the wrath of the Nature god. There are several other cultural heritage around Tholung area like Kong-cha-chu (hot water spring), Sinjibadong waterfall, Chorten of Lama Lhatsun Chempo and King Chagdor Namgyal, Leek Gomchen, dresses of Lama Lhatsun Chempo, stone formed male genital organ, etc. (Pradhan et al. 2014). Representation of temperate, sub-alpine and alpine forest along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt, seRies-ii 15 Survey Area The current survey was carried out along Tholung - Kishong sampling path (Figure 1), a much promoted trekking trial under Dzongu Eco-tourism Promotion Zone by the Government of Sikkim through Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management vide Notiication no. 1975/F dated 11.12.2006 in Khangchendzonga National Park / Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. The altitude of the study area ranged from 1900 m asl to 4300 m asl (approximately 30 km stretch) lying between 27036’ to 27043’N Longitude and 88026’ to 88028’ E Latitude. The faunal survey was done upto 5000 m asl (approximately 45 km). The loristic wealth of the Dzongu and its surrounding area is rich and diverse, both in composition and value. Forests represent a variety of plant communities that include diverse vegetation types corresponding to variation in climate and edaphic factors. The valley is enriched with variety of woody tree species, shrubs, lichens, epiphytes and mosses. The forest in the Dzongu valley is characterized by the tropical forest (700 to 1000m); sub-tropical forest (1000 to 1800m); wet temperate mixed broad leaved forest (1800 to 3000m); sub-alpine forest (3000m – 4000m); alpine forest (4000m and above). Along the sub-tropical region, the tree species widely distributed are Alnus nepalensis, Juglans regia, Macaranga denticulata (syn. Macaranga pustulata), Oroxyllum indicum, Choerospondias axillaries (syn. Spondias axillaries), etc. Pandanus furcatus (shrub) can be seen all along the Teesta valley. The wet temperate mixed forest comprises of evergreen tree species, which are completely covered by the moss and the large number of epiphytes. The ground is densely covered by the shrubs, herbs and ferns. Under the 16 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii dense forest cover, the ground bears nothing except ferns (Pteris sp., Dryopteris sp., etc.) where the humus content is very high and the ground always remains moist. The tree species at the lower altitude are represented by Alnus nepalensis, Belischmedia sikkimensis, Castanopsis purpurella subsp. Purpurella (Syn. Castanopsis hystrix), C. tribuloides, Sloanea dasycarpa (syn. Echinocarpus dasycarpus), Golchidion acuminatum, Prunus undulate (syn. Laurocerasus acuminata), Macaranga denticulata, Rhus succedanea, etc. Rhododenron arboreum and R. grande are scatteredly available. The small tree species comprise of Brassaiopsis hispida, B. mitis, Tetraenium trichotum (syn. Evodia fraxinifolia), Ficus nemarolis, Meliosma wallichii, Lyonia ovalifolia, Saurauia nepaulensis, etc. The shrubs are represented by Edgeworthia gardneri, Maesa rugosa, Rubus ellipticus, R. reticulatus, Urtica parvilora, Viburnum nervosum, etc. Ascending above 2000m, the species viz., Acer campbelli, A. caudatum, Cinnamomum impressinervium, Machilus edulis, Magnolia doltsopa (syn. Michelia excelsa), Quercus lamellosa, etc. becomes prominent. Small tree species, viz., Eurya acuminata, Symplocos glomerata, Symplocos Kuroki (syn. Symplocos theaefolia), etc., completely dominates the area. Aconogonum molle and Mahonia napaulensis is one of the dominating shrub at ca. 2100m along with Viburnum nervosum. Along 2400 to 2700m, the forest is completely dominated by the tree species viz., Acer campbelli, Acer stachyophyllum, Cinnamomum impressinervium, Ilex sikkimensis, Lithocarpus pachyphylla, Machilus edulis, Magnolia campbelli, Magnolia doltsopa, Quercus glauca, Quercus lamellosa, Rhododendron arboreum, etc. The shrubs are represented by Daphne bholua (syn. Dapnhe canabina), Viburnum nervosum, etc. The small tree species viz., Micromeles thomsonii, Myrsine semiserrata, Prunus armeniaca (syn. Prunus nepalensis), etc., are abundantly available along with Eurya acuminata, Lyonia ovalifolia, Symplocos kuroki, etc. The ground species becomes less prominent along the increasing altitude. Nearing at 3000m altitude, the temperate mixed forest is abruptly changed to Abies - Rhododendron forest. In this part of the KBR along transect, Tsuga dumsa is very sparsely available at an altitude of 2900m. Prunus armeniaca, Symplocos kuroki are among the small trees and Daphne bholua, Viburnum nervosum are among the shrub species available. Himalayacalamus sp. also forms patches at this altitude along with rhododendrons. Above 3000m altitude, Abies densa trees appear as dominant species, along with scattered presence of Acer pectinatum, Acer caudatum trees. The dominance of Abies densa could be seen till 3600m asl. The shrub species are represented by various species of rhododendrons; amongst them, the prominent rhododendron species found along this altitudinal range are Rhododendron campylocarpum, Rhododendron ciliatum, Rhododendron glaucophyllum, Rhododendron hodgsonii, Rhododendron niveum Rhododendron thomsonii, etc. Small bamboos can also be observed along 3200m – 3300m altitude. Ascending above 3600m altitude, the slope became steeper and the ground bouldery; the soil hardly contains any signiicant humus due to sandy texture. The tree species completely disappears above this altitude and different shrub species become more prominent. The ground becomes inaccessible due to the denseness of the shrub species. Figure 1 Rapid Biodiversity Survey sites along Tholung Kishong sampling path Different species of rhododendrons dominates the area above this altitude. The common rhododendron species available between 3600 m asl to 4200 m asl altitude are Rhododednron anthopogon, Rhododendron aeruginosum, Rhododendron fulgens, Rhododendron lepidotum, Rhododendron setosum and Rhododendron wightii. The Gaultheria trochophylla, Gaultheris nummuruloides, Juniperus recurva, Rosa sericea are some some of the common shrubs present along these altitude. Along 4200m altitude, Juniperus recurva, Juniperus indica, Rhododendron anthopogon and Rhododenron setosum becomes more prominent and the valleys turns into very steep (almost 60 – 70 degree) as well as rocky/bouldery slope covered with Aconitium sp., Kobresia sp., Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 17 Rhododendron forest along Tholung – Kishong Sampling Path Oxyria dignya, Primula sp, Silene sp., etc. The common species available above this altitude are Rhododendorn anthopogon, Rhododendron setosum, Juniperus recurva, Juniperus indica, Rheum nobile, Saussurea obvallata, Saussurea gossypiphora, Swertia multicaulis, etc. The area above 3000 m asl remains under perpetual snow cover during winter. The thick virgin forest along Tholung Kishong transect is enriched with numerous varieties of butterlies, birds and animals and some of the rare and threatened faunal and avifaunal species includes Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Red Fox, Tibetan Sand Fox, Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan 18 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Langur, Himalayan Langur, Blood Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Monal Pheasant, etc. To protect the rich biological diversity of Dzongu valley from emerging threats, several conservation zones such as Dawathong Himalayan Thar Conservation Zone, Thepa La (north-east) Alpine Bird Conservation Zone, Thepa La (south-west) Medicinal Plant Conservation Zone, Panch Pokhari (Lungdoh Nay) Musk Deer Conservation Zones, etc., have been designated along the Tholung-Kisong ecotrail. Methododlogy Prior to making ield visit, intensive literature review was done to have general idea on the biodiversity of the area covering both lora as well as fauna. The checklist for both lora and fauna were prepared and were taken to the ield to conirm their presence in the study area. The ield visit was made during August September 2013. Flora In the ield, loral biodiversity of the area was recorded using a standard quadrat method, the site characteristics of which are given in Annexure I. The plot of 20m x 20m was laid in 31 plots at every 0.5 to 0.6 km approximate distance, depending upon the site feasibility, covering a total area of 1.24 ha. Within the main plot, all the standing tree species were enumerated and girth (1.3 m above the ground for large tree species) were measured for the individual trees having CBH >30 cm. Within the mother plot, 5 sub-plots measuring 5m x 5m were laid (4 in the corner and 1 at the centre) for recording the number of saplings (height >20 cm but diameter <10 cm); the same plots were used to record the presence of the shrub/scrub species. The seedling (height upto 20 cm), availability were recorded using 10 number of 1m x 1m quadrat, which were placed at the 2 alternate corners of the 5m x 5m quadrat; the same plot was used for recording the percent cover of the herb species in the area. Parameters such as coordinates and altitude of each site were recorded using hand held GPS (Garmin etrex); slope aspect and slope angle were recorded for each site using Sunnoto Clinometer and the humus depth were measured using standard steel scale. General listing of all the tree/shrub/herb/ climbers/epiphytes/bamboo species, outside the plots as well as along the sampling path, were also done to have fair idea on the species availability in the area. Species were identiied in the ield using previous ield experiences as well as the published references including standard loras. Photographs were taken for most of the species for the future reference. Web references (www.eFloras.org; www. lowersoindia.net) were made and expert’s help taken after returning from the ield, on species veriication and identiication. Global / regional threat status of each species was identiied using web resources (www. iucnredlist.org) and the available published literatures. The data were quantitatively analyzed for density, frequency, abundance, basal area, etc. Importance value index (IVI) was determined as the sum of percentage density and percentage basal area. The adult individuals (diameter >10cm) were grouped into different classes on the basis of diameter as, C: 10 – 20; D: 20 – 30; E: 30 - 40; F: 40 - 50; G: 50 - 60; H: 60 - 70; I: 70 - 80; J: 80 - 90; K: 90 - 100; L: >100cm. Species diversity for each plot was determined with the Shannon and Wiener information function, which reads as, S H’= -∑ (ni/N) log2 ni/N) i=1 where, ‘ni’ represents total number of individuals of particular species, and ‘N’ represents total number of individuals of all species. Species richness was calculated using Margalef’s index as I=(S-1)/ln(N) where ‘S’ = the number of species in the sample and ‘N’ = the total number of individuals in the sample. Species evenness was determined by Shannon index of evenness as, E=H/ln(S) Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 19 where ‘H’ = Shannon’s Index of diversity and ‘S’ = number of species in the sample. Concentration of dominance was measured by Simpson’s Index, which reads as, S D = ∑ (ni/N)2 i=1 where ‘ni’ represents total number of individuals of particular species and ‘N’ represents total number of individuals of all species. The coeficient of community similarity (%) was worked out as J = a/(a+b+c) X 100 where, ‘a’ is the number of species common to both communities, ‘b’ is the number of species only in community 1, and ‘c’ is the number of species only in community 2, respectively. The abundance to frequency ratio was used to interpret the distribution pattern of the species. The value <0.025 indicated regular distribution, 0.025 to 0.05 indicated random distribution and >0.05 indicated contagious distribution. Fauna To record the faunal element, trail sampling (walking through the trail) and sign surveys (recording of digging sign, foraging sign, hoof mark, etc) were carried out by visiting the feasible areas away from the regular trek route / sampling path at places like Tumlong, Tholung, Thigong Bhutti Nay, Temrong, along Jhumthul Chu, Thijom to Phyaguteng cliff, Tholukpe, way towards Kisong La, Dikithong top, Migyeth La, Kaali taar, base of Lama Angden Peak, etc. 20 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Apart from that, whatever species (birds, mammals, etc) whether through direct sighting or calls or indirect evidences like droppings/ scats, feathers, foraging mark, pug mark, etc., were encountered along the sampling path, they were recorded. Further, camera traps were installed at different locations to ascertain the presence of the animals to capture the faunal species in the area. Standard literatures and published materials were referred for species identiication (Ali, 1989; Arawatia & Tambe, 2011; Grimette et al., 2011). Result Flora On the basis of elevation, three different forest types were identiied from the Tholung – Kishong sampling path in Dzongu landscape in Khangchendzonga National Park / Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, north Sikkim i.e., Temperate forest (1900 – 3000 m asl), Sub-alpine forest (3000 – 4000 m asl) and Alpine forest (above 4000 m asl) from which a total of 304 plant species were recorded during general ield observation (Table 1; Annexure II). On actual plot based ield survey in 31 plots (1.24 ha area), a total of 167 species including 19 large tree species (14 genera, 9 families), 20 small tree / large shrub (14 genera, 10 families, 1 unidentiied), 23 shrub / shrublet species (14 genera, 18 families), 87 herb species (63 genera, 34 families), 16 fern and fern allies (13 genera, 9 families) and 2 bamboo species (1 genera, 1 families) were recorded, and are marked with (*) in Annexure II. Family wise analysis revealed that Lauraceae was the dominant family (4 species) for large tree species; Ericaceae was the dominant (6 species) for small tree / large shrub; Ericaceae (7 species) followed by Rosaceae (5 species) for shrub species and Asteraceae (12 species) for herb species. Table 1 Distribution of loral species along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Species Genus Family Unidentiied Large Tree 33 21 14 0 Small Tree / Large Shrub 30 19 14 1 Small shrub / Shrublet 41 18 13 0 Herb 154 110 48 0 Fern and Fern allies 32 25 15 0 Climber/Epiphyte/Orchid 11 10 9 0 Bamboo 3 2 1 0 304 205 114 1 Habit Total Cumulatively for all the species including large trees, small trees / large shrubs, shrub/ scrub and herbs, the number of species did not show any signiicant correlation with the increasing altitude (r = -0.134), latitude (r = -0.092), longitude (r = 0.080) [Figure 2a,b,c], humus depth (r = 0.104) and degree slope (r = 0.058). Of the 19 large tree species recorded from temperate forest (cumulatively for 15 plots), the adult individuals of Alnus nepalensis (58.33 + 150.25 ind/ha) followed by Rhododendron grande (51.67 + 46.57 ind/ ha) recorded the highest density; whereas in terms of total basal cover, Tsuga dumosa (1517.78 m2/ha), Quercus lamellosa (949.35 m2/ha) and Lithocarpus pachyphylla (852.30 m2/ha) had the highest value (Table 2). The abundance to frequency ratio revealed all the adult individuals of large tree species to be contagiously distributed except Acer campbellii var. serratifolium, which showed random distribution but none of the species showed regular distribution (Table 2). The highest IVI value was recorded for Alnus nepalensis (27.46) followed by Tsuga dumosa (26.69), Rhododendron grande (23.95), Lithocarpus pachyphylla (20.22) and Acer campbellii var. serratifolium (18.59) [Table 2]. Of the four large tree species present in the sub-alpine forest, Acer caudatum (62.50 + 47.96 ind/ha) had the highest density as well as IVI (96.68) while Abies densa (266.30 m2/ ha) had the maximum total basal cover; all the species revealed contagious distribution (Table 2). The highest frequency of occurrence was observed for Acer campbelli (46.47%) in temperate forest while in sub-alpine forest, Abies densa and Acer campbellii had the highest frequency (40.0% each) [Figure 3]. Large tree species were completely absent from the alpine forest. Carex sp., Kishong, Upper Dzongu Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 21 Commelina benghalensis Coriaria terminalis Anemone vitifolia Aconogonum molle Cynanthes lobata Crassocephalum crepidiodes 22 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 2 Species distribution along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 23 24 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 2 Availability and distribution of Large tree species in Tholung - Kishong sampling path Adult Species Density (ind/ha) + SE Sapling TBC (m2/ A/F ratio ha) IVI Seedling Density (ind/ha) + Density (ind/ha) + SE SE Temperate Forest Abis densa Acer campbellii var. serratifolium Acer caudatum Alnus nepalensis Beilschmiedia sikkimensis Betula cylindrostachya Betula utilis Cinnamomum impressinervium Elaeocarpus lanceaefolius Lithocarpus pachyphylla Machilus edulis Machilus odoratissima Magnolia campbellii Quercus lamellosa Quercus lineata Rhododendron arboreum Rhododendron grande Rhus succedanea var. sikkimensis Tsuga dumosa 6.67 + 12.44 23.33 + 10.99 28.33 + 43.23 58.33 + 150.25 1.67 + 6.45 1.67 + 6.45 13.33 + 31.95 6.67 + 8.57 3.33 + 12.91 18.33 + 13.67 16.67 + 16.14 10.00 + 19.82 3.33 + 12.91 18.33 + 13.00 1.67 + 6.45 6.67 + 25.82 51.67 + 46.57 5.00 + 9.91 6.67 + 12.44 246.05 640.40 111.07 419.45 89.70 43.00 78.58 44.13 146.63 852.30 246.37 192.93 119.85 949.35 16.95 35.35 348.32 161.65 1517.78 0.15 0.04 0.16 1.31 0.15 0.15 0.30 0.07 0.30 0.07 0.09 0.23 0.30 0.07 0.15 0.60 0.19 0.11 0.15 6.33 18.59 11.83 27.46 2.03 1.28 6.00 3.08 3.54 20.22 9.88 6.65 3.11 21.78 0.86 2.94 23.95 4.38 26.79 --32.00 + 71.74 213.33 + 237.71 282.67 + 494.53 ----37.33 + 114.99 --------21.33 + 184.75 --------288.00 + 200.26 ----- 66.67 + 816.50 1879.19 + 1707.67 3959.73 + 3369.40 1409.40 + 2814.06 --67.11 + 819.23 1140.94 + 2622.25 ----201.34 + 813.68 939.60 + 3305.52 ----------1400.00 + 1676.38 ----- Sub-alpine Forest Abis densa Acer caudatum Betula utilis Tsuga dumosa 22.50 + 14.97 62.50 + 47.96 20.00 + 19.00 5.00 + 15.81 266.30 236.91 69.23 21.93 0.06 0.16 0.09 0.20 65.26 96.68 29.83 8.24 88.00 + 87.94 176.00 + 164.21 64.00 + 76.38 --- 1500.00 + 1256.30 1100.00 + 2313.41 1500.00 + 1643.78 --- SE: Standard error; TBC: Total basal cover; A/F Raio: Abundance to frequency raio; IVI: Important value index Figure 3 Frequency of tree species (adult individuals) in different forest types along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Figure 4 Frequency of saplings in different forest types in Tholung - Kishong sampling path Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 25 Figure 5 Frequency of seedlings in different forest types in Tholung - Kishong sampling path Oxyria digyna 26 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Lobelia sp. Capsule in Rhododendron fulgens In temperate forest, the highest sapling density was evidenced for Rhododendron grande (288.00 + 200.26 ind/ha) followed by Alnus nepalensis (282.67 + 494.53 ind/ha) and Acer caudatum (213.33 + 237.71 ind/ha); while the highest and the lowest seedling density was observed for Acer caudatum (3959.73 + 3369.40 ind/ha) and Abies densa (66.67 + 816.50 ind/ha) followed by Lithocarpus pachyphylla (67.11 + 819.23 ina/ha), respectively in sub-alpine forest (Table 2). The maximum frequency of occurrence for sapling was observed for Rhododendron grande in temperate forest and Acer caudatum in sub-alpine forest (Figure 4); whereas, the maximum seedling frequency was evidenced for Acer caudatum in temperate forest and for Abies densa in sub-alpine forest (Figure 5). Figure 6 Class-wise availability of tree species in the sampling site On the basis of diameter class, the individuals falling in D diameter class had the highest density in both temperate (110.0 ind/ha) and sub-alpine forest (82.50 ind/ha) followed by E diameter class in temperate forest (61.67 ind/ha); individuals falling in H, I, J, K diameter class were completely absent from the sub-alpine forest (Figure 6). Temperate forest had more number of individuals falling in L diameter class than sub-alpine forest, comparatively. Diameter class distribution for some of the dominant species in both temperate forest and sub-alpine forest are depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 8, which reveals that, for no species, individuals falling in all the diameter class were recorded from the study sites. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 27 Table 3 Availability and distribution of Small Tree / Large Shrub along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Density (ind/ha) + SE Frequency (%) A/F Ratio Alangium begoniaefolium 101.33 + 134.06 9.33 0.29 Brassaiopsis mitis 58.67 + 172.71 4.00 0.92 5.33 + 46.19 1.33 0.75 Species Temperate Forest Daphniphyllum himalayense Eurya acuminata 112.00 + 110.82 12.00 0.19 Hydrangea heteromalla 74.67 + 95.27 9.33 0.21 Leucosceptrum cannum 26.67 + 134.23 2.67 0.94 Lyonia ovalifolia 10.67 + 92.38 1.33 1.50 Macaranga denticulata 5.33 + 46.19 1.33 0.75 Rhododendron falconeri 480.00 + 292.61 20.00 0.30 Rhododendron hogdsonii 144.00 + 362.63 5.33 1.27 Sorbus ursine 250.67 + 464.78 6.67 1.41 5.33 + 46.19 1.33 0.75 Symploccos kuroki Tetradium trichotomum 58.67 + 277.80 2.67 2.06 Viburnum erubescence 821.33 + 130.43 62.67 0.05 5.33 + 46.19 1.33 0.75 Unidentiied Sub-alpine Forest Eurya acuminata 24.00 + 88.71 4.00 0.38 Hydrangea heteromalla 56.00 + 198.03 4.00 0.88 Lyonia ovalifolia 80.00 + 98.97 12.00 0.14 Pentapanax leschenaultia 24.00 + 88.71 4.00 0.38 Rhododendron barbatum 64.00 + 116.83 8.00 0.25 Rhododendron hogdsonii 1528.00 + 378.25 50.00 0.15 Rhododendron thomsonii 496.00 + 349.58 24.00 0.22 Rhododendron wightii 72.00 + 106.54 10.00 0.18 Sorbus ursina 48.00 + 203.16 4.00 0.75 Viburnum erubescence 256.00 + 95.54 34.00 0.06 Viburnum nervosum 144.00 + 113.52 18.00 0.11 93.33 + 101.66 16.67 0.08 Alpine Forest Rhododendron wightii SE: Standard error; A/F Raio: Abundance to frequency raio 28 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 4 Availability and distribution of shrubs/scrubs species in different forest types along Tholung Kishong sampling path Species Density ind/ha + SE Frequency (%) A/F Ratio 10.67 + 45.87 2.67 0.38 Temperate Forest Berberis sp.1 Daphne bholua 37.33 + 66.89 6.67 0.21 Maesa rugosa 32.00 + 44.60 8.00 0.13 Mahonia napaulensis 21.33 + 91.75 2.67 0.75 Rosa sericea 21.33 + 91.75 2.67 0.75 Rubus ellipticus 5.33 + 46.19 1.33 0.75 Rubus paniculatus 48.00 + 75.74 8.00 0.19 Rubus lineatus 21.33 + 91.75 2.67 0.75 Solanum aculeatissimum 10.67 + 45.87 2.67 0.38 Ilex intricata 16.00 + 45.56 4.00 0.25 Vaccinium retusum 10.67 + 92.38 1.33 1.50 Aralia sp. 288.00 + 499.86 8.00 1.13 Berberis sp.2 24.00 + 169.71 2.00 1.50 Daphne bholua 16.00 + 55.99 4.00 0.25 Sub-alpine Forest 240.00 + 333.20 10.00 0.60 Maesa sp. Juniperus recurva 48.00 + 68.95 10.00 0.12 Rhododendron anthopogon 80.00 + 213.81 6.00 0.56 Rhododendron campylocarpum 56.00 + 140.05 6.00 0.39 Rosa sericea 40.00 + 96.19 6.00 0.28 Rubus paniculatus 88.00 + 215.28 6.00 0.61 Rubus sp. 376.00 + 168.75 30.00 0.10 Salix psilostigma 208.00 + 176.68 16.00 0.20 Vaccinium retusum 128.00 + 230.14 8.00 0.50 Gaultheria hookeri 266.67 + 404.57 13.33 0.38 Rhododendron anthopogon 413.33 + 129.94 53.33 0.04 Rhododendron aeruginosum 40.00 + 70.47 10.00 0.10 Alpine Forest Rhododendron fulgens 266.67 + 134.25 33.33 0.06 Rhododendron setosum 293.33 + 135.39 40.00 0.05 13.33 + 73.03 3.33 0.30 Rosa sericea SE: Standard error; A/F Raio: Abundance to frequency raio Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 29 With respect to small tree / large shrub, 15 (including 1 unidentiied), 11 and 1 species, respectively, were recorded from temperate, sub-alpine and alpine forest (Table 4). Of the 15 species recorded in temperate forest, Viburnum erubescence had the maximum density (821.33 + 130.43 ind/ha) and frequency (62.67%) followed by Rhododendron falconeri (density: 480.00 + 292.61 ind/ha; frequency: 20.0%); whereas Daphniphyllum himalayense, Macaranga denticulata, Symploccos kuroki and unidentiied species had poor availability (5.33 + 46.19 ind/ha each) and frequency (1.33% each) in addition to Lyonia ovalifolia (1.33%) [Table 3]. In sub-alpine forest, Rhododendron hodgsonii (1528.00 + 378.25 ind/ha) had the maximum density followed by Rhododendron thomsonii (496.00 + 349.58 ind/ha); while the frequency was high for Rhododendron hodgsonii (50.0%) followed by Viburnum erubescence (34.0%). Rhododendron wightii was the only species belonging to small tree / large shrub category in alpine forest with the average density of (93.33 + 101.66 ind/ha) and 30 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii frequency (16.67%) [Table 3]. All the species in the three forest types showed contagious distribution [Table 3]. In the case of shrub / scrub species, a total of 11, 12 and 06 species, respectively were recorded from temperate, sub-alpine and alpine forest, of which, maximum and minimum density was observed for Rubus paniculatus (48.00 + 75.74 ind/ha) and Rubus ellipticus (5.33 + 46.19 ind/ha) in temperate forest; Rubus sp. (376.00 + 168.75 ind/ha), and Daphne bholua (16.00 + 55.99 ind/ha) recorded the maximum and minimum density in sub-alpine forest and Rhododendron anthopogon (413.33 + 129.94 ind/ha) and Rosa sericea (13.33 + 73.03 ind/ ha) showed the highest and the lowest density in alpine forest (Table 4). The minimum and maximum frequency of occurrence ranged between 1.33% (Rubus ellipticus and Vaccinium retusum) and 8.0% (Maesa rugosa and Rubus paniculatus) in temperate forest; it ranged between 2.0% (Berberis sp. 2) and 30.0% (Rubus sp.) in sub-alpine forest and 3.33% (Rosa sericea) to 53.33% (Rhododendron anthopogon) in alpine forest Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 31 Figure 7 Diameter class distributions for some of the dominant tree species in temperate forest along Tholung – Kishong sampling path (Table 4). All the species revealed contagious distribution except Rhododendron anthopogon in alpine forest, which witnessed random distribution (Table 4). In the case of herbaceous species including the fern and fern allies, cumulatively for the 15 sites, of the 60 species recorded form temperate forest, the maximum percent cover was recorded for Dryopteris redoactopinnata (11.67%) followed by Aconogonum molle (9.37%) and the minimum was observed for Anaphalis margaritacea (0.03%) followed by Astilbe rivularis, Odontosaria chinensis, Pilea umbrosa and Senecio sp. (0.07% each) [Table Figure 8 Diameter class distributions of tree species in sub-alpine forest along Tholung – Kishong sampling path Acer caudatum 32 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Galium sp. 5]. Similarly, in sub-alpine forest, the lowest and the highest percent cover ranged between 0.05% (Lycopodium sp.1) and 6.65% (Fragaria nubicola). Other species which revealed high percent cover was Aconogonum polystachyum (6.45%), Primula sikkimensis (6.15%), Impatiens urticifolia (5.05%), etc (Table 5). In the case of alpine forest, Potentilla peduncularis (13.33%) and Aconogonum polystachyum (11.0%) recorded the highest and Gentiana sp. (0.08%) and Euphorbia sikkimensis (0.17%) recorded the lowest percent cover (Table 5). Of the 60 species recorded from temperate forest, 23.33% of the total species recorded the frequency of occurrences over 10.0% (minimum: 10.0%, Coniogramme procera; maximum: 46.0%, Pilea scripta) [Table 5]. Likewise, 37.5% of the total species in sub-alpine forest recorded frequency of occurrence over 10% (minimum: 10.0%, Dryopsis apicilora, Primula sikkimensis and Selenium tenuifolium; maximum: 30.0%, Fragaria nubicola) [Table 5]. In the case of alpine forest, 51.61% of the total species recorded over 10.0% (minimum: 10.0%, Bistorta vaccinifolia and Tetraenium wallichii; maximum: 48.33%, Potentilla peduncularis) frequency of occurrence (Table 5). In temperate forest, large trees species showed greatest number of species richness followed by small tree / large shrub and shrub / scrub species (Table 6). In sub-alpine forest, maximum species richness was recorded for shrub / scrub followed by small tree / large shrub and large trees whereas in alpine forest, shrub / scrub species were dominant over other species, comparatively (Table 6). In terms of species diversity, large tree species showed maximum species diversity in temperate forest while in sub-alpine forest, shrub/scrub species evidences maximum species diversity (Table 6). All the three forest types showed very low similarity in species composition amongst each other (Table 7). For example, the species in temperate forest showed only 26.43% and 2.86% similalrity with the species in sub-alpine and alpine forest; similarly, only 12.12% species were similalr in sub-alpine forest and alpine forest. Table 5 Availability and distribution of herb species in different forest types along Tholung - Kishong sampling path Species Average Percent Cover/m2 Frequency (%) TF SAF AF TF SAF AF --9.37 ----- 0.50 --- --15.33 ----- 1.67 --- Aconogonum polystachyum --- 6.45 11.00 --- 27.00 31.67 Allium prattii --- --- 1.42 --- --- 16.67 Anaphalis contorta 0.20 0.20 --- 1.33 1.00 --- Anaphalis margaritacea Aconitum ferox Aconogonum molle 0.03 --- --- 0.67 --- --- Anaphalis sp. --- --- 1.25 --- --- 8.33 Anemone sp. --- --- 1.67 --- --- 13.33 Aralia sp. --- 0.20 --- --- 2.00 --- 0.33 --- --- 1.44 --- --- Arisaema concinnum Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 33 Arisaema grifithii --- 0.30 --- --- 3.00 --- Arisaema intermedium 0.77 0.70 --- 4.67 5.00 --- Arisaema nepenthoides --- 0.70 2.83 --- 5.00 15.00 Artemesia sp. --- --- 1.00 --- --- 5.00 0.73 2.55 --- 5.33 14.00 --- Aster himalaicus --- 0.35 0.67 --- 4.00 6.67 Astilbe rivularis 0.07 --- --- 0.67 --- --- --- 0.65 --- --- 5.00 --- Begonia rubella 0.27 --- --- 2.00 --- --- Begonia sp. 1.07 --- --- 6.00 --- --- --- --- 5.33 --- --- 25.00 Bistorta afinis Bistorta vaccinifolia Boehmeria platyphylla ----0.27 --0.85 --- 8.00 2.08 --- ----1.33 --6.00 --- 36.67 10.00 --- Boehmeria sp. 0.47 --- --- 2.00 --- --- Botrychium sp. --- 0.80 --- --- 5.00 --- Cardamina hirsuta 0.73 --- --- 3.33 --- --- Carex setigera 1.03 1.75 --- 5.33 11.00 --- Carex sp. 1.63 --- --- 11.33 --- --- --- --- 9.25 --- --- 31.67 Centella asiatica 0.40 --- --- 2.00 --- --- Chirita urticifolia 0.97 --- --- 4.67 --- --- Artemisia wallichiana Astilbe sp. Bergenia pacumbis Cassiope fastigata Colocasia sp. 0.37 --- --- 2.67 --- --- Coniogramme procera 2.90 --- --- 10.00 --- --- Cynodon radiatus 7.77 3.40 --- 14.67 15.00 --- --- 1.50 --- --- 8.00 --- Delphenium sp. Diplazium dilatatum 0.77 --- --- 4.00 --- --- Diplazium stoliczkae 1.60 --- --- 4.67 --- --- Dryopsis apicilora 3.07 3.20 --- 14.67 10.00 --- Dryopteris redoactopinnata 11.67 2.70 --- 19.33 9.00 --- --- 0.50 1.00 --- 3.00 6.67 Dryopteris sp. Elatostema platyphyllum 9.07 0.30 --- 39.33 3.00 --- Elatostema sp. --- 0.60 --- --- 2.00 --- Elsholtzia sp. --- 0.55 --- --- 2.00 --- 0.20 --- --- 0.67 --- --- Eragrostis ferruginea Eragrostis sp. 3.17 --- --- 15.33 --- --- Euphorbia sikkimensis 0.20 1.10 0.17 1.33 6.00 1.67 34 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Fragaria nubicola 1.83 6.65 Galium sp. --- 0.50 Gentiana sp. --- --- Geranium sp.1 --- 0.40 Geranium sp.2 --- --- Hackelia sp. 2.83 10.00 30.00 13.33 --- --- 3.00 --- 0.08 --- --- 1.67 --- --- 2.00 --- 0.75 --- --- 5.00 0.50 --- --- 2.67 --- --- Heracleum nepalense --- --- 1.17 --- --- 6.67 Hypericum sp. --- 0.90 --- --- 6.00 --- Impatiens racemosa 4.37 --- --- 22.00 --- --- Impatiens urticifolia 1.90 5.05 --- 10.67 24.00 --- Inula sp. --- 0.75 --- --- 5.00 --- Juncus himalensis --- 0.70 3.92 --- 5.00 26.67 Juncus thomsonii 0.13 1.85 --- 0.67 13.00 --- --- --- 7.25 --- --- 30.00 Kobresia sp. Laportea bulbifera 1.30 --- --- 10.67 --- --- Lecanthus peduncularis 1.63 --- --- 6.67 --- --- Lycopodium sp.1 0.10 0.05 --- 1.33 1.00 --- Lycopodium sp.2 --- 1.60 --- --- 6.00 --- Matteuccia intermedia 0.73 --- --- 4.00 --- --- --- --- 2.25 --- --- 11.67 Nepeta sp.1 0.97 --- --- 4.00 --- --- Nepeta sp.2 0.47 3.20 --- 2.00 24.00 --- Odontosoria chinensis 0.07 --- --- 1.33 --- --- --- 4.15 --- --- 16.00 --- 0.13 1.15 --- 2.00 7.00 --- --- --- 0.83 --- --- 6.67 Meconopsis sp. Osmunda sp. Parochetus communis Pedicularis siphonantha Persicaria capitata 2.60 --- --- 10.00 --- --- Persicaria runcinata 1.63 1.90 0.58 7.33 11.00 3.33 Pilea scripta 8.70 2.75 --- 46.00 16.00 --- --- 3.25 --- --- 21.00 --- Pilea sp. Pilea umbrosa 0.07 --- --- 0.67 --- --- Plagiogyria pycnophylla 0.47 0.30 --- 1.33 1.00 --- Polystichium sp. --- 4.85 --- --- 18.00 --- Potentilla peduncularis --- --- 13.33 --- --- 48.33 Primula sikkimensis --- 6.15 --- --- 10.00 --- --- --- 2.50 --- --- 13.33 0.20 --- --- 1.33 --- --- Primula sp. Pteris wallichiana Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 35 Ranunculus sp. 0.67 --- 0.75 3.33 --- 6.67 Rheum acuminatum --- --- 1.00 --- --- 6.67 Rhodiola fastigiata --- --- 0.67 --- --- 5.00 Rohdea nepalensis 2.50 --- --- 14.67 --- --- Rubus nepalensis 0.20 1.95 --- 2.00 13.00 --- Rumex nepalensis 0.80 1.05 --- 4.67 9.00 --- Salvia sp. 1.30 --- --- 8.00 --- --- Saussurea andersonii --- --- 1.75 --- --- 11.67 Saussurea fastuosa --- 0.40 --- --- 2.00 --- Saussurea unilora --- --- 1.17 --- --- 5.00 Saxifraga sp. 0.57 --- --- 2.67 --- --- Selaginella sp. 0.40 --- --- 2.00 --- --- Selenium tenuifolium 1.43 1.90 --- 9.33 10.00 --- Senecio sp. 0.07 1.55 --- 0.67 8.00 --- Smilacina sp. 0.13 3.35 --- 0.67 17.00 --- Strobilanthes alatus 0.47 --- --- 2.00 --- --- Strobilanthes gossypina 0.40 --- --- 3.33 --- --- Tetraenium wallichii --- 0.65 1.33 --- 7.00 10.00 Thalictrum chelidonii Trifolium repens 0.27 0.87 0.60 --- ----- 2.00 2.00 3.00 --- ----- TF: Temperate forest; SAF: Sub-alpine coniferous forest; AF: Alpine forest Table 6 Species diversity and distribution in different forest types along Tholung-Kishong sampling path Parameters Diversity index (H) Concentration of dominance (D) Species richness index (I) Species evenness index (E) Temperate Forest LT ST/LS S/S 2.48 1.88 2.23 Sub-alpine Forest LT ST/LS S/S 1.10 1.52 2.14 Alpine Forest LT ST/LS SS/S 0.00 0.00 1.51 0.11 0.22 0.12 0.40 0.34 0.14 0.00 1.00 0.24 18.81 14.83 10.74 3.74 10.82 11.81 0.00 0.86 5.78 0.84 0.69 0.93 0.79 0.63 0.86 0.00 0.00 0.84 LT: Large tree; ST/LS: Small tree/Large shrub; S/S: Shrub/Scrub 36 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Codonopsis sp. Magnolia campbellii Silene sp. Rhodiola rosea Bidens pilosa Gaultheria fragrantissima Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 37 38 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 7 Similarity coeficient of species composition in different forest types along Tholung Kishong sampling path, Khangchendzonga Biospeher Reserve, north Sikkim TK 1 TK 2 TK 3 TK 4 TK 5 TK 6 TK 7 TK 8 TK 9 TK 10 TK 11 TK 12 TK 13 TK 14 TK 15 TK 16 TK 17 TK 18 TK 19 TK 20 TK 21 TK 22 TK 23 TK 24 TK 25 TK 26 TK 27 TK 28 TK 29 TK 30 TK 31 TK1 100 TK 2 0.0 100 TK 3 25.0 5.3 100 TK 4 17.6 4.2 36.7 100 TK 5 13.3 0.0 40.0 21.2 100 TK 6 13.5 3.8 26.5 37.1 20.0 100 TK 7 15.0 0.0 27.0 18.6 27.8 31.7 100 TK 8 15.4 0.0 19.2 12.5 20.0 15.2 23.5 100 TK 9 14.6 6.7 17.5 20.9 11.9 25.0 28.3 22.9 100 TK 10 13.3 0.0 25.0 14.3 21.4 27.3 39.4 36.4 17.5 100 TK 11 2.9 0.0 9.1 5.1 9.4 10.3 6.8 10.7 14.3 12.9 100 TK 12 2.8 0.0 8.6 4.9 8.8 7.1 6.5 13.8 19.0 12.1 65.2 100 TK 13 3.1 0.0 9.7 5.3 10.0 7.9 7.1 11.5 12.2 10.0 41.7 63.6 100 TK 14 2.9 0.0 8.8 5.0 9.1 15.6 18.2 25.0 100 TK 15 6.9 0.0 10.3 2.8 10.7 8.3 7.5 8.0 10.0 10.7 10.3 21.4 30.4 22.2 100 TK 16 2.7 0.0 8.3 4.8 8.6 8.7 6.3 8.6 18.2 24.2 37.0 25.0 40.0 100 TK 17 0.0 0.0 9.7 5.4 6.5 10.8 7.1 15.4 17.9 13.8 21.4 28.6 28.0 16.7 20.0 23.3 TK 18 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 TK 19 3.0 0.0 6.1 2.6 TK 20 0.0 0.0 2.5 TK 21 0.0 0.0 TK 22 0.0 9.1 12.8 11.6 6.7 11.4 9.5 7.3 4.3 0.0 8.5 100 4.3 0.0 2.8 5.4 9.4 11.8 3.1 8.1 6.1 100 3.0 10.5 9.5 0.0 11.9 6.3 2.9 8.8 13.8 12.5 24.0 18.8 13.8 24.1 100 2.2 2.6 6.7 4.0 0.0 3.9 2.6 10.8 13.2 18.2 23.5 15.6 22.2 11.4 30.3 21.2 100 0.0 2.5 0.0 4.9 4.4 0.0 4.3 0.0 9.1 8.6 17.9 19.4 14.3 25.8 17.2 19.4 20.7 36.7 100 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.1 6.0 0.0 5.9 0.0 10.5 12.8 11.1 19.4 2.7 9.8 8.3 19.4 13.9 23.7 16.7 100 TK 23 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 6.8 6.3 0.0 6.1 0.0 8.1 7.7 5.6 17.1 0.0 4.9 5.6 24.2 11.4 25.0 17.6 64.3 100 TK 24 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.0 3.8 0.0 3.8 0.0 10.3 12.5 10.8 18.9 2.6 7.0 5.1 18.9 7.7 23.1 13.2 75.0 70.4 TK 25 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.6 2.4 0.0 7.3 0.0 3.2 3.0 0.0 6.5 0.0 6.1 7.1 3.1 6.9 2.8 3.2 8.6 9.4 8.3 100 TK 26 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.9 0.0 2.6 0.0 14.3 15.6 17.1 15.4 100 TK 27 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.7 2.4 0.0 2.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.2 0.0 3.0 3.6 3.2 3.4 0.0 3.3 2.8 6.3 2.7 22.7 16.0 100 TK 28 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.6 0.0 2.5 15.4 10.3 45.0 100 TK 29 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.2 0.0 3.6 0.0 7.1 12.5 10.7 0.0 22.2 18.8 10.0 100 TK 30 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 7.5 5.3 7.3 6.5 20.7 28.0 34.6 25.0 100 TK 31 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.3 0.0 0.0 2.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.6 2.9 7.7 2.8 13.2 14.3 12.8 3.1 34.6 18.5 29.6 25.0 31.0 100 100 Impatiens falcifer Hoya linearis Gaultheria trichophylla Impatiens urticifolia Neonatis ingrata Oxalis debilis Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 39 Rhododendron edgeworthii Rhododendron hodgsonii Rhododendron campylocarpum Rhododendron ciliatum Rhododendron glaucophyllum Rhododendron thomsonii 40 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Fauna During the trail sampling, a total of 14 species of mammals and 27 bird species were recorded along Tholung – Kishong trail (approximately 45 km) [Table 8 & 9]. Amongst the mammalian species, Assamese macaque and Goral have been assessed as near threatened by the IUCN whereas Himalayan black bear as Vulnerable. Of the 27 bird species recorded, most of the bird species occupied disturbed forest. Table 8 Mammal species encountered in the trail sampling along Tholung – Kisong transect Species Assamese macaque Barking Deer Goral Himalayan Black Bear Himalayan Langur Himalayan Pika Jackal Jungle cat Leopard Cat Orange-bellied Himalayan Squirrel Red Fox Tibetan Sand Fox Wild Boar Yellow Throated Marten 1 Zoological Name Macaca assamensis Muntiacus muntjak Naemorhedus goral Ursus thibetanus Presbytes entellus Ochotona himalayana Canis aurens Felis chaus Prionailurus bengalensis Altitudinal Range (m asl) 1000-3000 2000-2600 2000-3800 Upto 4300 Upto 4000 2400 - 4200 <2500 1750 - 3950 1750 - 2750 PC P, HM HM DS, FS S S C C PM IUCN Status2 NT LC NT VU NA LC LC LC LC Evidences1 Dremomys lokriah 900 - 3000 S, PC LC Vulpes vulpes Vulpes ferrilata Sus scrofa Martes lavigula 3750-4500 >4500 Below 3000 1500 - 4500 S S DS S LC LC LC LC C: Call, DS: Digging sign, FS: Foraging sign, HF: Hoof mark, P: Pellet, PC: Photo capture, PM: Pug mark, S: Sighting LC: Least concern, NA: Not assessed, NT: Near threatened, VU: Vulnerable 2 Camping ground, Dawathong, Upper Dzongu Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 41 42 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 9 Checklist of bird species encountered along Tholung – Kisong transect Species Zoological Name Local Name Altitudinal Evidences1 IUCN Range (m asl) Status2 Habitat Occupied Black Bulbull Hypsipetes leucocephalus Jureli 2800 - 4500 S LC Disturbed forest Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocerus Chibey 900 - 2800 S LC Disturbed forest Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis Cheel 1900 - 3800 PC LC Disturbed forest Blood Pheasant Ithaginis cruentus Chilimey 3000 - 4500 S NA Alpine pasture Blue Throated Barbet Megalaima asiatica Kuturka 900 - 3800 S LC Disturbed forest Blue Whistling Thrush Myophonus caeruleus Kalchura 1100 - 2700 S LC Water bodies Common Green Magpie Cissa chinensis Doday Koilee 900 - 3800 S LC Undisturbed temperate broad-leaved forest Common Myna Acridotheres tristis Ruppi 900 - 3800 PC LC Disturbed forest Golden Naped Finch Pyrrhoplectes epaulette Tuti 900 - 4500 S LC Water bodies Green Backed Tit Parus monticolus Chichink Kotey 900 - 3800 S LC Open secondary forest Hill Partridge Arborophila torqueola Pewra 1500 - 2700 S LC Undisturbed temperate broad-leaved forest Kaleej Pheasant Lophura leucomelanus Kaleej 900 - 3800 S NA Undisturbed temperate broad-leaved forest Lareg billed Crow Corvus macrorhyncus Kag 2800 - 4500 S NA Alpine shrubs Long tailed thrush Zoothera dixonii Kolkolay 2800 - 4500 S LC Disturbed forest Long-tailed shrike Lanius schach 1800 - 3800 S LC Disturbed forest Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 43 1 Oriental Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis Dhukkar Upto 4000 S LC Disturbed forest Rose Finch Carpodacus rodochroa Tuti 1800 - 4500 PC LC Alpine shrubs Rudy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Hans 3800 - 4500 S LC Kisong Lake Satyr tragopan Tragopan satyra Mudal 2700 - 4000 S NT Undisturbed temperate broad-leaved forest Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus lammeus Rani Chara 900 - 2800 PC LC Disturbed forest Striated Laughing Thrush Garrulax striatus Kolkolay 900 - 2800 PC LC Disturbed forest Verditer Flycatcher Eumyias thalassinus Hareney 900 - 4500 PC LC Disturbed forest Wedge tailed Green Pigeon Treron sphenura Halesso 600 - 2600 PC NA Disturbed forest Whiskered Yuhina Yuhina lavicollis Megma 900 - 4500 S LC Disturbed forest White capped Redstart Chaimarrornis leucocephalus Dhobi Chara 900 - 4500 PC LC Water bodies / temperate coniferous forest White Tailed Nuthatch Sitta himalayensis Makhmali Matta 900 - 3800 S LC Undisturbed temperate broad-leaved forest Yellow billed blueMagpie Urocissa lavirostris Lamphusray 900 - 3800 S LC Disturbed forest PC: Photo capture, S: Sighting 2LC: Least concern, NA: Not assessed, NT: Near threatened Discussion Tholung – Kishong eco-trail is very rich in terms of loral and faunal biodiversity and is especially preserved, as majority of the area falls within Khangchendzonga National Park, where illegal activities relating to wildlife are punishable offence. The area is not so famous as compared to Yuksom Dzongri trail in west Sikkim because it was not open for tourism till 2006; nevertheless, even after its promotion in 2006, it has not been able to attract national and international attention due to lack of the documentation work. Further, till today, the area is restricted for outsiders and one has to seek restricted area permit to enter the area which causes inconvenience for the visitors. Further, for being shy, the Lepchas of the Dzongu area are very reluctant to open up with the visitors. Nonetheless, such restriction and conservative behavior of the people has helped, to great extent, in preserving and exploitation of the precious biodiversity of the area. Till today, the inner valleys of Dzongu still remains unexplored which might be harbouring biodiversity of enormous signiicance and new to the modern world. For example, Rhodendron niveum and Rhododendron Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus inpejanus) 44 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus chrysogaster) maddenii, which were considered to be rare in Sikkim and is conined to some speciic area, have been recorded from Dzongu valley (Pradhan et al., 2014). Dzongu also harbours many species of cane and ratten which were assumed to be extinct from the wild. During our survey, we covered three types of forest system viz, temperate, sub-alpine and alpine having their own importance and species composition. We witnessed very low intensity of anthropogenic disturbances in the area and the forest is intact in the entire stretch from Tshana to Phyaguteng cliff except scattered minor disturbances. There is no human habitation as such along the entire stretch but log houses does exist in areas like Tholung Gumpa, Temrong, Tholukpe, etc. which are used by the pilgrims during their visit to sacred Tholung gumpa and Kishong lake once in a while. We also observed that the Tholung – Kishong valley is very rich in regard to rhododendrons; we encountered 20 species of rhododendrons during the ield survey and do believe that there might be more species hidden in the unexplored valleys. During the survey, few individuals of rare species Rhododendron edgeworthii was also recorded just few meters inside the Khangchendzonga National Park boundary along Tholung chu. The irst rhododendron species that can be witnessed is Rhododendron grande in association with oak, chestnut, laurels, etc. which extends upto ca. 2700 m asl and is replaced by Rhododendron falconeri having very low altitudinal amplitude (2700 – 3000 m asl = 300 m) in the valley. The rhododendron species that is most widespread in the valley in Rhododendron hodgsonii which ascends from Temrong (3200 m asl) upto Thijom (3600 m asl). The important characteristics of the Tholung valley is that being very steep, one can evidence different vegetation types from temperate to sub-alpine to alpine from one end, which is not at all possible in any of the other parts in Sikkim. The forest in and around Tholung Gumpa consists of Lithocarpus pachyphylla and Rhododendron grifithii with few scattered individuals of Acer species. The Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 45 ground contains high humus and is densely covered with Dryopteris redoactopinnata, Odontosoria chinensis, etc. During the survey in temperate forest, we recorded high density but low frequency for the adult individuals as well as the saplings and seedlings of Alnus nepalensis. The high density might be due to the fact that the site (especially plot 2) was located along the river bed and seemed to be affected by the land slide or the lash lood in the recent past which allowed the gregarious growth of Alus nepalensis, as this species has the tendency to regenerate in areas with low nutrient content due to its ability to ix atmospheric nitrogen or areas impacted by the natural calamities. However, the species was available only in 02 plots (plot 02 and plot 09) which resulted in low frequency for the species. The decrease of species richness along the increasing altitude is a general phenomenon and similar result was obtained in our study. Such decrease is due to the fact that as the altitude increases, the vegetation cover decreases and becomes dominated by the common type of vegetation whereas in the lower altitudes, the vegetation composition changes frequently supporting variety of species leading to high species richness. Species diversity, dominance and the species evenness are interlinked in the sense that more diverse the vegetation is, there is more chances for the species to be evenly distributed. When the species are evenly distributed, there is no chance for a particular species to dominate the community. We observed the similar kind of relationship between these three parameters in the present study. Still, the forest tends to be dominated by a particular species at the local level which depends on factors viz., ability to withstand the existing environmental conditions, compete with other species, faster growth rate etc. 46 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Even distribution of adult individuals in all the diameter class, except D and E diameter class with high value, is the indicative of the healthy ecosystem in temperate forest but for species like Tsuga dumosa, which had very low density of adult individuals in both temperate and sub-alpine forest, all in D diameter class and no new regeneration, puts a question on the future survivability of this species from these area if conservation measures are not taken on priority. Similalry, for some of the important species like Cinnamomum impressinervioum, Elaeocarpus lanceefolius, Magnolia campbellii, Quercus lamellosa, Quercus lineata, Rhododendron arboreum, Rhus succedanea, etc., with low adult individuals and no new recruitment i.e., seedlings and saplings, is also a cause of concern from the conservation point of view because these species will become susceptible to succession by the other small tree species / large shrub species in temperate region. The Tholung – Kishong valley also harbours numerous medicinal plants of high value such as Paris polyphylla, Panax sikkimensis, Panax bipinnatiidum, Aconitum sp., Picrorhiza kurroa, Rheum acuminatum, etc., in addition to highly traded medicinal mushroom, Ophiocordyceps sinensis as well as species of high conservation value like Rheum nobile, Saussurea gossypiphora, Saussurea obvalata, Saussurea tridactyla, etc. In addition, the Kishong valley is a home to several important animals like Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Tibetan Sand Fox, Tibetan argale, etc. Finding all such unique species in one valley is very rare and this signiies and enhances the the importance of the valley; nevertheless, due to lack of human interferences, the forest has become dense and the animals, especially Himalayan Black bear, in the search of food and open areas appear in the fringe villages, as reported, leading to man animal conlict. One of the the signiicant observation made during the survey was that a particular Rubus species has widely spread between 3000 – 4200 m asl which may become a problem in future if not controlled because invasive species has a potential to encroach and adapt to any kind of climatic condition. Dzongu valley witnessed the massive destruction of the era, caused due to 18th September 2011 earthquake, which has severely damaged the forest and the wildlife of the area in addition to the human settlements. Along the trail, we witnessed 12-13 major landslides between Bey village (the starting point of the trail situated at an altitude of ca. 1750 m asl) and Thijom during our survey period. Further, Bey used to be human inhabited area some years back is now totally erased by the earthquake. Areas like Tumlong (ca. 2000 m asl), along the Ringpi Chu having cultural signiicance and lush green vegetation of Oak and Acer species, have entirely been wiped out by the landslides resulting in habitat degradation of the important faunal elements of the area. Similarly, Thijom (ca. 3600 m asl) a potential habitat for the Rhododendron niveum has met with the same fate and the population of the species does not exist now. However, a new small population of Rhododendron niveum was observed along Jhumthul Chu towards Jhumthul Phuk glacier. This indicates towards probability of existence of Rhododendron nivem in other wilderness areas of Sikkim and needs more detailed exploration. The Tholung – Kishong trail has a potential to be developed into important eco-trail with natural and cultural signiicance because apart from being rich in biodiversity, the trail passes through one of the oldest monastery, Tholung Gumpa situated amidst the Tholung Reserve forest, Thyugong Bhutti Nay, Kishong Lake, hot water spring, etc., which is linked with the Lepcha culture and this may attract national and international visitors if worked out seriously. Though the altitude between 3900 – 4500 m asl consisted of good pastures, the wildlife was completely absent, except few bird species, from the area and this is very important from the conservation and ecological point of view. Even the Blood Pheasant, which normally are found from 3000 m asl was available above 4500 m asl. The reason could be the non availability of the foraging ground due to excessive regeneration of the non-palatable plant species which is directly linked with the presence/absence of the wildlife or may be the animals have shifted to higher regions in search of good pasture. Conclusions • Tholung – Kishong eco-trail is very rich in biodiversity as evidenced from the present survey; however, certain species needs immediate conservation measures without any further delay to maintain the status of the forest. Anthropogenic pressure is almost nil but the natural disturbances have devasted the large tract forest and this calls for massive afforestation programme inorder to prevent the area from being invaded by some alien species. Further, the species like Rhododendron niveum has speciic habitat requirement and the destruction of which may lead to species extinction. • For having historical and cultural signiicances, the area has huge potential to be promoted for nature and cultural tourism which will provide sustainable livelihood options to the local people as well as help conserve and maintain the forest of Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 47 the area. Moreover under the Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project, the Khangchendzonga National Park has been included in the tentative list of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. This will further enhance the ecological and cultural values of the areas. However, uncontrolled tourism is capable of effective ecological value of natural areas adversely if proper management is not in place. Hence proper plan should be developed to cause minimum disturbance to the area and at the same time creating facilities to enrich visitor experience. Monitoring of visitor and pressure on habitat na dinfrastructure should be evaluated. Summary 1. During the survey, a total of 31 plots were laid covering 1.24 ha area, from which 19 large tree, 20 small tree/large shrubs, 23 shrubs/scrubs and 87 herb species were recorded. 2. Cumulatively for trees, small trees/large shrub, shrub/scrub and herbs, the number of species the number of species did not show any signiicant correlation with the increasing altitude (r = -0.134), latitude (r = -0.092), longitude (r = 0.080). 3. Of the 19 large tree species recorded from temperate forest (cumulatively for 15 plots), the adult individuals of Alnus nepalensis (58.33 + 150.25 ind/ha) recorded the highest density while Tsuga dumosa (1517.78 m2/ha) recorded the highest total basal cover. 4. Of the four large tree species present in the sub-alpine forest, Acer caudatum (62.50 + 47.96 ind/ha) had the highest density as well as IVI (96.68). 5. On the basis of diameter class, the individuals falling in D diameter class had the highest density in both temperate (110.0 ind/ha) and sub-alpine forest (82.50 ind/ha). 6. Of the 15 species of small tree / large shrub recorded in temperate forest, Viburnum erubescence had the maximum density 48 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii (821.33 + 130.43 ind/ha) and frequency (62.67%). 7. In sub-alpine forest, Rhododendron hodgsonii (1528.00 + 378.25 ind/ha) had the maximum density. 8. In the case of herbaceous species including the fern and fern allies, cumulatively for the 15 sites, of the 60 species recorded form temperate forest, the maximum percent cover was recorded for Dryopteris redoactopinnata (11.67%) followed by Aconogonum molle (9.37%). 9. In sub-alpine forest, the lowest and the highest percent cover ranged between 0.05% (Lycopodium sp.1) and 6.65% (Fragaria nubicola). 10.In the case of alpine forest, 51.61% of the total species recorded over 10.0% (minimum: 10.0%, Bistorta vaccinifolia and Tetraenium wallichii; maximum: 48.33%, Potentilla peduncularis) frequency of occurrence. 11. In temperate forest, large trees species showed greatest number of species richness while in sub-alpine and alpine forest, shrub / scrub species were dominant over other species. 12.All the three forest types showed very low similarity in species composition amongst each other. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary – shiv Mandir sampling path, North sikkim Team: Dr. Bharat Kumar Pradhan, Suraj Subba, Dorjee Chewang Bhutia Introduction The north district has always been an attraction for the local, national as well as the international visitors due to its uniqueness in terms of landscape like mountains ending to cold deserts. These areas have been explorer’s paradise since many centuries and have been visited by the famous explorers like Sir JD Hooker (1847-49), G Gammie (1892), JC White (1887 - 1908) and others, the account of which is beautifully described in Himalayan Journal, Account of Botanical Tour in Sikkim during 1892, Sikhim and Bhutan: Twenty one years on the north-east frontier. Further, there lies famous Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang valley and hot water spring, Yumey Samdong (syn. Momey Samdong), and several high altitude lakes viz., Gurudongmar, Tsho Lhamu, Gyam Tshona (the only high altitude brackish water lake) and others. The Yumthang valley, an alpine pasture with snow clad mountains all around, is popular for the beauty of multiple varieties of lowers including the beautiful Primulas that cover the ground during MayJune giving every visitor a feeling of colourful carpet spread on the ground. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Lachung - Yumthang valley, with an area of 43 sq. km. is bordered with high rugged ChubaSagochen mountain ranges on the east and Chomzomei Tso extending up to Lava pass on the west. The sanctuary is approachable by road. It is rich in natural vegetation and is known to harbour over 25 species of Rhododendrons (Badola and Pradhan, 2009). For some of the rhododendron species, different form and varieties can also be seen in the valley. For example, R. arboreum is known to have three forms with red (var. arboreum), pink (var. roseum) and white (var. alba) lower; all these forms are present in the Lachung –Yumthang valley; nevertheless, white form (var. alba) is very rare and are spotted well below Singring Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 49 village in Lachung valley by some of the rhododendron experts from Sikkim. Similarly, for R. thomsonii, three forms with red, maroon and pink lower and for R. cinnabarinum, both cinnabar and pink form are present in the valley. However, at the higher elevations, R. arboreum, normally a tree species occurs in shrub form. The forest in the area being sub-alpine forest type, the conifer tree species like Abies densa, Tsuga dumosa, Larix grifithii, Picea spinulosa, etc., dominates the whole area in and around the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. The succession in forest tree species can easily be observed from Lachung village, the last human inhabited area, itself with Populas jaquemontiana being taken over by mixed forest of Tsuga dumosa, Larix grifithii, Picea spinulosa and then by Abies densa at the upper end. Picea spinulosa is endemic to Sikkim and is localised to Lachung and Lachen range in north Sikkim. Those trees can be seen covered with numerous epiphytes including Pleione hookeriana as well as several species of lichens and mosses. The Salix sp. 50 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii fern species are less prevalent in sub-alpine region compared to the wet temperate mixed broad-leaved forest. The special feature of the area is that, with the increasing altitude, change in rhododendron species can easily be make out even by the beginners who does not have much idea about rhododendrons. It is a natural habitat to Rhododendron niveum, the State tree of Sikkim which was known as the only area having natural population of the species till the discovery of new population of R. niveum by Badola and Pradhan (2010) in Khangchendzonga National Park. The valley is also rich in high valued medicinal plant species like Aconitum ferox, Panax sikkimensis, Panax bipinnatiidus, Paris polyphylla, Podophyllum hexandrum, Podophyllum sikkimensis, Picrorhiza kurroaa, Rheum acuminatum, Rheum nobile, etc. The valley provides refuge to some of the important faunal and avifaunal species like Capricornis thar (Serow), Ochotona sp, (Pika), Martes lavigula (Yellow Throated Marten), Ithaginis cruentus (Blood Pheasant), Aethopyga ignicauda (Fire-Tailed landslides which is a continuous phenomenon especially during monsoon and winters. This has caused severe damages to the biodiversity of the area. Figure 9 Rapid Biodiversity Survey sites along Shinga Rhodo. Sanctuary – Shiv Mandir sampling path Sunbird), Dendrocopos darjellins (Darjelling Woodpecker), Columba leuconata (Snow Pigeon), etc. Survey Area The current survey was carried out covering Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary upto Shiv Mandir (approx. 30 km stretch) in Lachung range in north district of Sikkim (Figure 9). The elevation of the survey area ranged from 3200 – 4000 m asl lying between 27˚43’ – 27˚50’ N Longitude and 88o44’ -88o41’ E Latitude. The entire area is rocky and is bisected by Yumthang chu. The slope angle of the sampled sites ranged between mild (5 degree) to 60 degree and was faced towards E, SE and NE aspect (Annexure III). The valley is heavily affected by the avalanche and the The forest is characterized by the sub-alpine forest type and the tree species are less prevalent in the area. The forest is largely dominated by Abies densa; nevertheless, other prominent tree species present in the area are Acer caudatum, Betula utilis, Larix grifithii, Prunus nepalensis, Sorbus microphylla, etc. which can be seen interspersed with the Abies densa at places. In this region, the tree species extends upto Shiv Mandir above which, the ground is covered with the shrubs and scrubs of rhododendrons, Juniperus sp. and other species. Since the valley is famous for rhododendrons which starts occurring well below Lachung valley and extends beyond the survey area to Yumey Samdong and above. Of the 36 species reported from Sikkim (Pradhan and Lachungpa, 1990), the species that is present in the valley includes Rhododendron aeruginosum, R. anthopogon, R. arboreum, R. baileyi, R. barbatum, R. campanulatum, R. camellilorum, R. campyllocarpum, R. ciliatum, R. cinnabarinum, R. campanulatum, R. decipens, R. fulgens, R. glaucophyllum, R. grande, R. hodgsonii, R. lepidotum, R. nivale, R. niveum, R. pendulum, R. setosum, R. sikkimensis, R. thomsonii, R. trilorum, R. virgatum, R. wightii, R. wallichii, R. wightii, and R. vaccinioides Of all these rhododendrons, R. campanulatum and R. hodgsonii has a wide range of distribution in the valley. Interestingly, all these species are regenerating profusely throughout the valley. The common shrub/shrublet that prevails in association with the rhododendrons in the area are represented by Berberis sikkimensis, Cassiope fastigata, Daphne cannabina, Gaultheria trichophylla, Ilex intricate, Ribes Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 51 grifithii, Rosa sericea, Salix longilora, Salix sikkimensis, Vaccinum retusum, Viburnum erubescence, etc. The ground lora of the area is represented by Aconitum ferox, Artemesia sp., Bistorta afinis, Fragaria nubicola, Inula sp., Juncus himalensis, Ligularia sp., Meconopsis sp., Myricaria rosea, Panax bipinnatiidus, Panax sikkimensis, Pedicularis siphonantha, Persicaria capitata, Potentila fruticosa, Potentila peduncularis, Polygonatum cirrhifolium, Primula calderiana, Primuladenticulata, Rumex nepalensis, Ranuculus sp., Senecio sp., Viola sp., and numerous fern species. Beyond Yumthang valley, Cardamine macrophylla, a wild edible herb with purple lower, Fritillaria sp., with purple-white lower and Clintonia udensis with white lower, are a very common sight; nevertheless, the ground are mostly covered with Sphagnum squarrosum and the trees are covered with Usnea himalayana. Besides, the valley is full of edible as well as non-edible mushrooms. Methodology Prior to making ield visit, intensive literature review was done to have general idea on the biodiversity of the area covering both lora as well as fauna. The checklist for both lora and fauna were prepared and were taken to the ield to conirm their presence in the study 52 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt, seRies-ii area. The ield visit was made during May June 2014. Flora The forest being sub-alpine type with not much variation in the species composition, little modiication was done in plot size where loral biodiversity of the area was recorded using a plot of 10m x 10m which was laid after every 0.5 to 0.6 km approximate distance. Within the plot, all the tree species were enumerated and the individual tree with CBH> 30 cm (1.3 m above the ground) was measured. Within the mother plot, a quadrat of 5m x 5m was laid in the centre to record the number of saplings present; the same quadrat was used to record the percent cover of the shrub species. Further, a 1m x 1m quadrat was laid at the centre and 04 corners of the mother plot for recording the percent cover of the herb species. General listing of all the species, outside the plots were also done. On the basis of size, the trees were categorized into large / small tree and the shrubs were categorized into large shrubs and shrubs/scrubs. Floras were identiied in the ield using previous ield experiences as well as the published references including standard loras. Photographs were taken for most of the species for the future reference. Web references (www.eFloras.org; www.lowersoindia.net) Yumthang valley, North Sikkim Figure 10 Family-wise distribution of herb species were also made and expert’s helps taken after returning from the ield, for species veriication and identiication. Data were analyzed for density, frequency, abundance, relative density, relative frequency, relative dominance, IVI, etc. Species diversity (H), Species richness (I) and Species evenness (E) was calculated using standard formulas. The adult individuals of the tree species were categorized into different classes on the basis of the diameter of the trunk viz., C (10 to 20 cm), D (20 to 30 cm), E (30 to 40 cm), F (40 to 50 cm), G (50 to 60 cm), H (60 to 70 cm), I (70 to 80 cm), J (80 to 90 cm), K (90 to 100 cm), L (>100 cm). Primula calderiana Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 53 Figure 13 Altitudinal distributions of the species in the sampling site Fauna To record the faunal/ avifaunal element, trail sampling (walking through the trail) and sign surveys (recording of digging sign, foraging sign, hoof mark, etc.) were carried out in the wilderness areas. During the sampling, direct evidences like call sound and indirect evidences like feather, pellets, scats, droppings, etc. wherever encountered, were recorded. Photo capture was also done, depending upon the feasibility. Result Flora A general checklist of 172 species were prepared and is presented in Annexure IV; of which, herbs represented the highest number of species (97 species; 67 genera and 28 family) including 1 bamboo species, Arundinaria maling, followed by shrub/scrubs (34 species; 54 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 14 genera and 10 family); whereas, species in small tree/large shrub category were represented by 12 species belonging to 7 genera and 5 family (Table 10). Family wise analysis revealed that for species belonging to the small tree / large shrub and shrub / shrublet category, Ericaceae was the dominant family with 7 and 19 species, respectively, while in the case of herbs, Asteraceae (16 species) appeared as the dominant family followed by Liliaceae (14 species) and Cyperaceae (13 species) family (Figure 1). Further, for herbs, 12 of the 28 families represented single species each (Figure 10). From the survey area, 12 fern and fern allies (belonging to 8 genera and 6 families) and 8 orchid species (belonging to 8 genera) were also recorded; nevertheless, moss, lichens and vines were represented by single species (Table 10). Table 10 Distribution of loral species along Shingba RS - Shiv Mandir sampling path Figure 12 Relation between humus depth and the number of species in sampling site Figure 11 Relation between altitude and the number of species in the sampling site Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 55 Figure 14 Species availability in different sampling site Figure 15 Availability of different categories of tree species in the sampling site 56 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Habit Tree Small tree / Large shrub Shrub / Shrublet Herb Fern and Fern allies Orchid Moss Lichen Vines Total No. of Species Genus Family 6 6 5 12 7 5 34 14 10 97 67 28 12 8 6 8 1 1 1 172 8 1 1 1 113 1 1 1 1 58 During the survey, a total of 32 plots were laid covering 0.32 ha area (Annexure III; Figure 9), from which 5 tree, 9 small tree/ large shrubs, 14 shrubs/scrubs and 33 herb species were recorded and are marked with (*) in Annexure IV. Since the forest being the sub-alpine type, Abies densa was the most predominating tree species in the area; other tree species encountered within the sampling plots were Betula utilis, Larix grifithii, Sorbus microphylla and Salix sp. Cumulatively for trees, small trees/large shrub, shrub/scrub and herbs, the number of species showed negative correlation with the increasing altitude (r = -0.061; ns) [Figure 11] and positive correlation with the humus depth (r = 0.038; ns) [Figure 12]; nevertheless, the correlation was nonsigniicant. Maximum number of species was recorded between 3600 – 3800 m asl elevation range (Figure 13). The number of species per plot for tree, small tree / large shrub, shrub / scrub and herb species ranged between 1 and 3, 1 and 4, 1 and 6 and 1 and 8, respectively; nonetheless, species were completely absent from 3.13% (Tree), 65.63% (small tree / large shrub), 9.38% (shrub / scrub) and 12.50% (herb) of the total plots (Figure 14). In the case of tree species, cumulatively for adult, sapling and seedling, Abies densa was present in 31 of the 32 plots and B. utilis was recorded from 5 plots (7, 9, 10, 11 & 24); Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 57 Figure 16 Plot-wise availability of Abies densa in the study area Figure 17 Availability of tree species in the sample site 58 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 18 Class-wise availability of tree species in the sampling site similarly, L. grifithii was recorded from only 1 plot (plot 26); whereas, S. microphylla and Salix sp. were recorded from 2 plots each i.e., plot 12 & 24 and plot 20 & 28. For some of the plots (11, 13, 29, 31 & 32), adult individuals of tree species were completely absent. Collectively, for all the tree species, standing stem for adults, saplings and seedlings ranged between 1 to 14, 2 to 33 and 1 to 23, respectively. Cumulatively, for all the 32 plots and on the individual species basis, Abies densa had the highest number of adult, saplings and seedlings (Figure 15) as compared to other species. The adult standing stem of A. densa ranged between 1 – 12 individuals in the sample plots; nevertheless majority of the plots (7 plots) had 2 to 3 individuals (Figure 16), the highest number of the individuals was present in plot 23 (12 individuals) and plot 25 (10 individuals) respectively. For B. utilis and S. microphylla, the adult individuals was present in two plots which ranged between 6 – 7 individuals and 2 – 4 individuals; however, the adult individuals of L. grifithii (7 individual) and Salix sp. (2 individual) were observed only in single plot. Since, Abies densa was the most dominant tree species in the area, it had the highest cumulative adult stem density (268.75 + 53.52 ind/ha; Rel. Den.: 73.50%; IVI: 247.23) [Figure 17] as well as the total basal cover (TBC: 3980.48 m2/ha; Rel. Dom.: 94.94%). On the other hand, the lowest adult stem density was recorded for Salix sp. (6.25 + 35.56; IVI: 5.52) and the lowest TBC was recorded for Sorbus microphylla (17.54 m2/ha). Betula utilis being the second dominant tree species had the average density of 50 + 96.16 ind/ha, IVI 24.71 and TBC, 81.32 m2/ha; similarly, Larix grifithii and Sorbus microphylla had the adult stem density of 21.88 + 123.74 ind/ ha and 18.75 + 55.18 ind/ha, respectively. The Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 59 Figure 19 Relative Frequency of different categories of tree species in the sampling site Figure 20 Status of small tree / large shrub in the sampling site 60 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 21 Status of small shrub / scrub in the sampling site total adult stem density and the TBC for all the other tree species were not comparable with that of Abies densa. In the case of saplings, the highest density was recorded for A. densa (1575.0 + 138.77 ind/ha) followed by L. grifirthii (87.5 + 71.44 ind/ha) and S. microphylla (25.0 + 35.36 ind/ ha); saplings were not available for B. utilis and Salix sp. in the sampling sites. Similarly, the highest seedling density was recorded for Abies densa (20937.50 + 114.97 ind/ha) followed by B. utilis (8437.50 + 209.0 ind/ ha) and Salix sp. (625.00 + 35.36 ind/ha); however, seedlings were not recorded for L. grifithii and S. microphylla from the study sites. On the basis of DBH class, adults falling in C diameter class recorded the highest density (156 ind/ha) followed by D (86 ind/ha), F (38 ind/ha) and E (31 ind/ha) (Figure 18). Adult individuals falling in J diameter class were completely absent from the sampled sites. In terms of frequency of occurrence, Abies densa was the most frequently occurring species for all the three categories ie., adult stem (Rel. Freq.: 78.79%), sapling (Rel. Freq.: 83.33%) as well as the seedlings (Rel. Freq.: 76.47%); other species had very low frequency of occurrence (Figure 19). The sampled area was not much rich in terms of tree species richness (I = 4.79) and recorded low species diversity (H’ = 0.67). The abundance to frequency ratio revealed that, the adult individuals of Abies densa (A/F ratio: 0.04) showed random distribution whereas the adult individuals of all other species showed contagious distribution (A/F: >0.05); Likewise, in the case of saplings and seedlings, all the species present revealed contagious distribution in the plots they were present. The small tree/large shrub recorded from the sample plots are Lyonia ovlifolia, Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 61 Figure 22 Status of herb species in the sampling site Rhododendron barbatum, R. decipiens, R. hodgsonii, R. niveum, R. thomsonii and Viburnum nervosum. Of the 7 small tree / large shrub species present, V. nervosum had the highest frequency of occurrence (18.75%) followed by R. hodgsonii and R. thomsonii (12.5% each) and Rhododendron barbatum (6.25%) [Figure 20]; species like L. ovalifolia, R. decipiens and R. niveum had the lowest frequency of occurrences (3.13% each). In respect to percent cover, R. hodgsonii was dominant (average percent cover /25 m2: 10.16 %; lowest: 30%, highest: 100%) [Figure 20]; other species had very low average percent cover. In plot number 26, L. ovalifolia was the only small tree / large shrub species available and had high density (percent cover: 100 percent). In plot 30, of the four species recorded, R. barbatum had the 62 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii lowest availability (10 percent), whereas R. hodgsonii and R. thomsonii had highest percent cover share (30 percent each) followed by V. nervosum (20 percent). Of the three species present in plot 31, R. thomsonii (percent cover: 20 percent) had highest availability followed by V. nervosum (percent cover: 10 percent) and R. barbatum (percent cover: 5 percent). R. decipiens was observed only in plot 20 in association with R. hodgsonii and had very low availability (5 percent). Plot 21 and 22 was fully covered with R. hodgsonii (percent cover: 100 percent each). Of the 14 small shrub / scrubs recorded from the sample plots, Rhododendron campanulatum and R. campyllocarpum had wide availability in the area and was recorded from 53% and 38% of the total plots, respectively (Figure 21). The density in terms of percent cover for R. campanulatum ranged between 5 percent (plot number 5) – 100 percent (plot number 18 & 19) [average percent cover /25 m2= 19.69%] and for R. campyllocarpum, it ranged between 5 percent (plot number 10) – 70 percent (plot number 8) [average percent cover /25 m2= 11.41%; [Figure 21]. Species like Berberis concinna, Gaultheri hookeri, Rhododendron lepidotum, Vaccinum retusum were recorded from single plots and had the percent cover of 5, 20, 30 and 25 percent respectively, and species like Rosa sericea and Salix longilora were recorded from two plots each and had the percent cover of 20 - 40 [average percent cover /25 m2= 1.83%] and 10 -100 percent [average percent cover /25 m2= 3.44%], respectively. Similarly, Rhododendron wightii, Viburnum erubescence and Rhododendron cinnabarinum were recorded from 13%, 17% and 19% of the total plots with the average percent cover value of 2.03 (lowest: 5%; highest: 30%), 2.19 (lowest: 5%; highest: 30%), and 5.0 percent, (lowest: 10%; highest: 70%), respectively [Figure 21]. Other species which were recorded from the sampling plots were Juniperus recurva, Ribes sp., and Salix calyculata (Frequency: 3.13% each) having the average percent cover of 0.63%, 1.88% and 1.25% respectively, per 25 m2 (Figure 21). In respect to number of species present in each plot, majority of the plots had 1 (34.4%) or 2 (31.3%) species in a plot (Figure 14). In the case of herbaceous species, a total of 33 species were recorded from 32 plots, of which, Fragaria nubicola had the highest frequency of occurrences (53.13%) followed by Primula denticulata var. denticulata (21.88%), Carex alpine and Smilacina oleracea (18.75% each), Anaphalis busua and Arisaema grifithii (15.63% each), Anaphalis adnata, Anaphalis hookeri, Bistorta afinis, Carex fragilis and Cardamine macrophylla (12.50% each) [Figure 22]. Other species had low frequency of occurrences ranging from 3.13% to 9.38%. In respect to number of species available per plot, 25.0, 15.6, 15.6, 12.5, 12.5 percent of the total plots were represented by 4, 1, 2, 5 and 6 species, respectively (Figure 17). With regard to average density in terms of percent cover, F. nubicola (percent cover: 5 – 100 percent; average percent cover /m2: 14.69%) was dominant over other species, comparatively. Species viz., Carex fragilis, Primula denticulata var. denticulata, Anaphalis hookeri had the average percent cover of 6.56, 4.84, 4.53 percent / m2, respectively (Figure 22). Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 63 Acer sp. Cotoneaster sp. Arisaema griithii Berberis sp. Meconopsis sp. Myricaria rosea Polygonatum sp. Piptanthus sikkimensis 64 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Prinsepia utilis Fauna During the trial sampling, existence of a total of 3 mammalian species was conirmed through direct sighting and indirect evidences (Table 11). In addition, 40 bird species belonging to 4 Order and 19 families were recorded from the survey area (Table 12). Table 11 Faunal species encountered along Singhba – Shiv Mandir transect, North Sikkim COMMON NAME Yellow Throated Marten Pika Serow SCIENTIFIC NAME Martes lavigula Ochotona sp. Capricornis thar Evidence PC,DS PC,DS DS,P,HM IUCN Status LC LC NT Discussions North Sikkim is known widely for its rich repository of biological diversity especially rhododendrons, and Sikkim is the only state in India and perhaps in the whole world to have designated / notiied Rhododendron Sanctuary, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in north district and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary in west district. Sir JD Hooker during his exploration in Sikkim-Darjeeling Himalaya during 1847- 49 has reported 45 species of Rhododendrons from Sikkim including the species from Darjeeling; nevertheless, over 36 species of Rhododendron have been reported only from Sikkim by Pradhan and Lachungpa (1990). Recently, researchers have reported some new rhododendron species from Sikkim, but are yet to be conirmed. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 65 66 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 12 Bird species encountered along Singhba – Shiv Mandir Transect, North Sikkim COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME FAMILY ORDER EVIDENCE Ashy Throated Warbler Phylloscopus maculipennis Sylviidae Passeriformes PC,S Black Bulbul Hypsipetes leucocephalus Jureli Pycnonotidae Passeriformes PC,S Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus Chibey Dicaeidae Passeriformes PC,S Black Faced Laughing Thrush Garrulax afinis Kolkoley Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S Blue Fronted Redstart Phoenicurus frontalis Muscicapidae Passeriformes PC,S Blue Whistling Thrush Myophonus caeruleus Kalchura Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S Chestnut Crowned Laughing Thrush Garrulax erythrocephalus Bhaekura Turdidae Passeriformes Darjeeling Woodpecker Dendrocopos darjellensis Laachey Picidae Piciformes PC,S Dark Breasted Roseinch Carpodacus nipalensis Tuti Fringillidae Passeriformes PC,S Eurasian Treecreeper Certhia familiaris Sulsuley Certhiidae Passeriformes PC,S Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola Scolopacidae Charadiformes S Fire Tailed Sunbird Aethopyga ignicauda Balchi Nectariniidae Passeriformes PC,S Golden Naped Finch Pyrrhoplectes epaulette Tuti Fringillidae Passeriformes S Green Backed Tit Parus monticolus Chi Chink Kotey Paridae Passeriformes PC,S Grey Backed Shrike Lanius tephronotus Laniidae Passeriformes PC,S Large Billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos Kag Corvidae Passeriformes PC,S Minivet Pericrococtus sp. Rani chari Campephagidae Passeriformes S Oriental Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis Dhukur Columbidae Columbiformes PC,S Pipit Anthus sp. Motacillidae Passeriformes S Plain Backed Thrush Zoothera mollissima Turdidae Passeriformes S LOCAL NAME PC,S Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 67 COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME LOCAL NAME FAMILY ORDER EVIDENCE Plain Mountain Finch Leucosticte nemoricola Tuti Fringillidae Passeriformes PC,S Plumbeous Water Redstart Rhyacornis fuliginosa Muscicapidae Passeriformes PC,S Red Billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Corvidae Passeriformes PC,S Red Headed Bullinch Pyrrhula erythrocephala Fringillidae Passeriformes PC,S Red Tailed Minla Minla ignotincta Leiothrichidae Passeriformes PC,S Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher Ficedula strophiata Muscicapidae Passeriformes PC,S Rufous Vented Tit Periparus rubidiventris Fista Paridae Passeriformes PC,S Rufous Vented Yuhina Yuhina occipitalis Megma Timaliidae Passeriformes PC,S Scaly Thrush Zoothera dauma Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S Snow Pigeon Columba leuconota Columbidae Columbiformes PC,S Spotted Laughing Thrush Garrulax ocellatus Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S Stripe Throated Yuhina Yuhina gularis Sylviidae Passeriformes S Tickell’s Thrush Turdus unicolor Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S White Browed Fulvetta Alcippe vinipectus Sylviidae Passeriformes S White Capped Redstart Chaimarrornis leucocephalus Muscicapidae Passeriformes White Collared Blackbird Turdus albocinctus Turdidae Passeriformes PC,S Whiskered Yuhina Yuhina lavicollis Megma Timaliidae Passeriformes S Yellow Bellied Fantail Chelidorhynx hypoxantha Kanchirna Rhipiduridae Passeriformes PC,S Yellow Billed Blue Magpie Urocissa lavirostris Laampucharey Corvidae Passeriformes S Yellow Wagtail Motacilla lava Motacillidae Passeriformes PC,S S: Sighting, PC: Photo capture Tuti Malewa Megma Dhobi Chara PC,S Grey-backed Shrike Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush Dark-breasted Roseinch (Male) Dark-breatsed Roseinch (Female) White-collared Blackbird (Juvenile) Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher Rufous-vented Tit Spotted Laughingthrush 68 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Even though, our survey was conined between Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and Shiv Mandir (approx, 30 km stretch covering 700 m altitudinal amplitude), we encountered 19 of the 29 rhododendron species known to exist in the Lachung valley including Yumey Samdong area. The valley before the entrance to Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary harbours good patch of Picea spinulosa in association with Tsuga dumosa, Abies densa and Larix grifithii. The review of literature reveals that Picea spinulosa is endemic to Lachung and Lachen valley in Sikkim and Larix grifithii, though endemic to Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan is conined to Lachung and Lachen range in Sikkim, as per our previous ield observations. It is interesting to note that the Rhododendron arboreum, which is included in the Guinness book of world record as the world’s largest rhododendrons, with all the 3 forms i.e. red (var. arboreum), pink (var. roseum) and white (var. alba) are available in the valley. Of the 3 forms, white form is very rare in occurrence and is not reported till date from any other part in Sikkim except Lachung valley in north district of Sikkim state. It is distributed between 1800 to 3600 m asl; at the lower elevations, the species can be seen as well developed trees with huge trunk and tall height; nonetheless, with the increase in elevation, the same species are seen in the form of shrubs rarely exceeding 2.5 to 3 m height. This may be the effect of the variation in climatic condition from temperate to subalpine type but is creating confusion on the real form (tree or shrub) of the species. During our survey, it was observed that Abies densa formed the pure forest as well as was the dominating tree species, had high sapling and seedling density which indicates that the forest is in good health; nevertheless, the area is low in regard to tree diversity. The open slope above Yakchey reserves enormous population of Rhododendron niveum but its categorization into tree needs to be redeined because from nowhere it resemble true tree if one carefully looks at its straggling form and structure. Even though the species has woody structure but lacks true trunk due to which, R. niveum has been listed as small tree / large shrub in the checklist prepared by us (Annexure IV). Further, its vulnerable status needs reconsideration because the species was found regenerating gregariously in the area; further, in addition to new population record for the species in Khangchandzonga National Park (Badola and Pradhan, 2010), a new patch of R. niveum was recorded by us during AugustSeptember, 2013 along Tholung – Kisong trail towards Jumthul Phuk glacier along Jumthul chu. The altitude between 3400 and 3600 in the survey site witnessed gregarious growth of Rhododendorn hodgsonii, R. thomsonii, etc. which may have resulted in lowest number of species occurrence along this altitudinal range as the dense growth of these species appeared as the important factor in controlling the growth of the other understory / ground species. Similarly, R. hodgsonii is so extensively available in Khangchendzonga National Park/Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (Yuksom Dzongri, Tholung-Kishong, Indo-Nepal border) that from nowhere, the species appears endangered or vulnerable in Sikkim. The rare status of Rhododendron cinnabarinum needs to be redeined in Sikkim because likewise R. hodgsonii, the species has wide availability in KNP/KBR in west district (Pradhan et al., 2013) and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in north district. During our survey, it was observed that highest number of species concentration along 3600 – 3800 m elevation which falls in the Yumthang valley and above; this may be due to the high disturbances caused by the large Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 69 annual inlux of tourists, grazing, etc. which created open spaces allowing other species to invade and establish in the area. In general, species richness is negatively correlated with the increasing altitude; similar trend, though, insigniicant, have been observed in our present study. Some species have speciic habitat requirement and those species are very prone to extinction if their habitat is disturbed by any means. During the survey, R. decipiens was recorded from only one sampling plot which means that it is speciic to that location; nonetheless, just beside its location, huge area have been washed away which might have taken away other individuals of R. decipiens. This increases its chance of extinction if the habitat is not restored immediately. On the other hand, there is every possibility that the individuals being washed away will emerge in other area with suitable habitat requirement. Another species of importance available in the valley was Enkianthus delexus with beautiful pink-yellow mix bell-shaped lower occurring between 3000 to 3200 m asl which has not been recorded by us from other survey locations in Sikkim. The area further holds species that has been categorised as vulnerable like Rhododendron pendulum and endangered such as Aconitum ferox by IUCN, which further enhances the importance of the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. Besides, the sanctuary is a hub to many of the important rare medicinal plants of conservation concern like Panax sikkimensis, Paris polyphylla, Podophyllum hexandrum, Podophyllum sikkimensis, Picrorhiza kurroaa, etc. During the survey, the area was found to be devastated by landslides at several locations, majority of which perhaps have caused by the recent earthquake of September 2011, thereby causing great damage to the vegetation in the area. In addition, the avalanche and the 70 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii lash lood caused due to heavy snowfall and torrential rain is a common natural disaster in the area resulting in huge vegetation loss. In some places, the entire area was open with the remnant of numerous cut stumps as a result of earlier mass felling of tree species, Abies densa, Betula utilis, etc. and rhododendrons for house construction and irewood collection, an indication of unregulated mass tourism in the area. Though the vegetation in some of these areas was found to be regenerating; nevertheless, the continuous occurrence of such calamities/activities may affect the ecology thereby altering the vegetation composition of the area. The vegetation loss whether by natural or anthropogenic means contributes to climate change or rise in local temperature in the longer run and makes the area prone to invasion by alien species which has a tendency to grow and adapt in any harsh climatic conditions. These alien species have high seed viability and faster growth rate due to which they will not take much time to spread and cover the entire area thereby suppressing the germination and growth of the indigenous species. The Yumthang valley as a whole is one of the important tourist destinations in Sikkim and is easily approachable by road; nevertheless, the road passing through the valley often gets blocked due to the natural calamities causing inconvenience to the travellers. In some places, the water were observed gushing over the road thereby damaging the road and hindering the maintenance effort of the GREF personal. This may be checked to some extent by channelizing the water. Sikkim is widely popular for its natural beauty and people from all over the world visits Sikkim to enjoy it but this needs to be checked because unregulated tourism in north Sikkim has resulted in piling up of garbage including plastic bottles, wrappers, etc. in the valley, which will obviously affect the beauty as well as the wildlife of the area. Since, north district is the only place in Sikkim which is run by the local governing body called Dzumsa, which takes care of every affair of the villages and the people. The Dzumsa can be taken into conidence to check and monitor the tourism in the area. Further, there are many seasonal shops in the Yumthang valley and Yumey Samdong area which are run by the locals; they along with the drivers of the tourist vehicle, owners of the hotels can be inspired through Dzumsa to take active participation to take up the cleanliness drive in the area. The Yumthang valley is known to harbour many of the rare and endangered wildlife species but we did not encounter any of them except Yellow Throated Marten and the fresh pellets of Serow. Locals from Lachung revealed the presence of the Red Panda in the Yumthang valley; however, we were unable to ind any sign of its presence during our survey which may be correlated to the increasing disturbances such as unregulated tourism, grazing, continuous army movement, etc. and habitat destruction due to road construction, fuel wood collection and other activities. Feral dog is another problem in the area as they are involved in hunting / killing of the wildlife. Recently, killing of Red Panda have been reported from Shinba Rhododendron Sanctuary by the feral dog which needs to be considered, seriously. Controlled grazing is helpful in maintaining the ecosystem; grazing of animals (yaks and horses) has been observed at several places inside and outside the sanctuary but they are under control and are not a threat to the biodiversity at the moment. Other disturbances observed in the area include fuel hood collection, may be for household consumption or for the road carpeting purpose. As per our study, in majority of the sites, there were cut stumps of Abies densa and in some places, piles of Betula utilis which has very low availability in the area as per our observation and is a cause of concern because if this continues, the species may soon disappear from the area. Rhododendron aeruginosum Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 71 Conclusions • The study site is very rich in biodiversity especially lora which gives general indication that it supports considerable number of faunal species. Nevertheless, the area is highly impacted by the natural as well as anthropogenic disturbance which needs immediate attention. Large fragments of forests are being destroyed by the natural calamities; restoration of those areas should be done in priority because some of the species like Rhododendron decipiens have speciic habitat requirement and its habitat is largely devastated leaving beside remnants of individuals of R. decipiens, and the species is under the threat of extinction. Grazing, though observed in the area, is under control and is not an immediate threat but due care should be 72 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii taken that it does not exceeds the carrying capacity and lead to domestic cattle – wild animal conlict. Increase in feral dog population is emerging as a serious threat to the wildlife and killing of Red Panda by feral dog have recently been reported from the area; the problem of feral dog needs to be resolved at the earliest. • Sikkim is one of the best tourist destinations in the world; nonetheless, it is high time that we give emphasis on quality tourism rather than looking for the quantity because it is having negative impact on the biodiversity as observed in the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary such as heaps of garbage accumulation in many areas inside the sanctuary, noise pollution by playing of music system, which is disturbing the wildlife of the surrounding areas, etc. Summary 1. During the survey, a total of 32 plots were laid covering 0.32 ha area, from which 5 tree, 9 small tree/large shrubs, 14 shrubs/ scrubs and 33 herb species were recorded. 2. Cumulatively for trees, small trees/large shrub, shrub/scrub and herbs, the number of species showed negative correlation with the increasing altitude (r = -0.061; ns) and positive correlation with the humus depth (r = 0.038; ns); nevertheless, the correlation was non-signiicant. 3. Collectively, for all the tree species, standing stem for adults, saplings and seedlings ranged between 1 to 14, 2 to 33 and 1 to 23, respectively. 4. Cumulatively, for all the 32 plots and on the individual species basis, Abies densa had the highest number of adult, saplings and seedlings. 5. Abies densa had the highest cumulative adult stem density (268.75 + 53.52 ind/ha; Rel. Den.: 73.50%; IVI: 247.23) as well as the total basal cover (TBC: 3980.48 m2/ha; Rel. Dom.: 94.94%). 9. Of the 7 small tree / large shrub species present, V. nervosum had the highest frequency of occurrence (18.75%) followed by R. hodgsonii and R. thomsonii (12.5% each) and Rhododendron barbatum (6.25%). 10. In respect to percent cover, R. hodgsonii was dominant (average percent cover /25 m2: 10.16 %; lowest: 30%, highest: 100%). 11. Of the 14 small shrub / scrubs recorded from the sample plots, Rhododendron campanulatum and R. campyllocarpum had wide availability in the area and was recorded from 53% and 38% of the total plots, respectively. In the case of herbaceous species, Fragaria nubicola had the highest frequency of occurrences (53.13%) followed by Primula denticulata var. denticulata (21.88%), Carex alpine and Smilacina oleracea (18.75% each), Anaphalis busua and Arisaema grifithii (15.63% each) 6. A. densa had the highest sapling (1575.0 + 138.77 ind/ha) and seedling (20937.50 + 114.97 ind/ha) density. 7. The sampled area was not much rich in terms of tree species richness (I = 4.79) and recorded low species diversity (H’ = 0.67). 8. The abundance to frequency ratio revealed that, the adult individuals of Abies densa (A/F ratio: 0.04) showed random distribution whereas the adult individuals of all other species showed contagious distribution. Rhododendron lepidotum Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 73 Rapid Biodiversity survey with special focus on Rhododendron niveum Team: Sabita Sharma, Meena Tamang Introduction The genus Rhododendron was irst described by Carl Linnaeus in 1837 in Genera Plantarium. It has a has broad range of distribution worldwide and exhibits signiicant diversity in habit from dwarf tussocks to robust trees and occupies variety of habitats such as ridges and cliffs, marshy areas, forest loors, mountain tops, alpine meadows and on trees and rocks. The total number of rhododendrons in the world is estimated to be 1200 species. Of the 121 taxa recorded from Indian Himalaya, Arunachal Pradesh has the highest taxa (106) followed by Sikkim (42) [Annexure V]; whereas western Himalaya have only 7 species of rhododendrons (Pradhan et al., 2015). Rhododendron niveum, locally called as Hiun – pate gurans (Snow Leaved Rhododendrons) was irst described by Sir JD Hooker in the year 1849 and is the state tree of Sikkim. The speciic epithet “niveum” is derived from latin ‘niveus’ meaning snowy or snowwhite, attributes to colour of leaves in the lower surface. According to Botanic Garden Conservation International (BGCI- 2010), R. niveum has been listed as Threatened species. As per conservation planning in India, IUCN Category 2011, it is categorised as Critically Endangered and in Sikkim it is reported as Endangered (Singh et al, 2009). Species proile of Rhododendron niveum Hook.f. Kingdom Division Order Family Botanical Name Local Name English Name IUCN conservation category 74 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Plantae Angiosperm Ericales Ericaceae Rhododendron niveum Hook.f. Hiun patey Gurans Snow leaved Rhododendron Critically Endangered Capsule Inlorescence Leaf Habit and Habitat Distribution World Bhutan, Southern Tibet, India, China. India Native to North East India including Sikkim Sikkim Yaksey, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachung, north Sikkim Khangchendzonga National Park, Dzongu in north Sikkim. It can be distinguished from other species of Rhododendrons by its leaves Identifying features narrowly obovate or oblanceolate, white or fawn tomentose beneath which turn grey on ageing and smoky blue or purple-mauve lowers Description: It is a shrub or small tree of 2-6m high generally branched. Stems cracked and issured by lakes. Leaves narrowly obovate or oblanceolate, 9-15 x 3-5 cm, rounded and apiculate; shining green above, densely and softly white or fawn tomentose beneath, turning silvery grey on maturity. Inlorescence is large, globose, 11-15cm across. Flowers in clusters of 18-25, corolla tubular, campanulate, smoky blue to purple mauve, pedicels 7-10mm. Flowering / Fruiting April-May / August - September Rationale for selection of Rhododendron niveum as lagship species Flagships are those species which are more iconic, charismatic, are of conservation signiicance and represent an ecosystem or issues like climate change or geographic region like state or protected area. The Species programme of WWF classiies these species as ambassadors, icon or symbol for a deined habitat, issue campaign or an environmental cause. These are relatively large and may or may not be indicator or keystone species. Conservation attention to these envisages protection to many other species with which these species share their habitat with. Sikkim, nested in the Indio Burma global hotspot of biodiversity and in Eastern Himalaya, a priority Global 200 Eco-region, and with many Important Bird Areas (IBA), harbours many species, which qualify to be ‘Flagships’. The criteria for inclusion of potential lagship species for ecological studies under SBFP are mentioned as under. 1. Species categorized as Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable by the IUCN. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 75 as lagship species for the study under SBFP during the Minutes of Discussion in the ofice of the Project Director in the presence of the PCCF cum-Project Director, APD I, APD II, DFO (BC), the scientist from GB Pant Institute of Himalayan and Environment Development (GBPIHED), Sikkim Unit and others. Objective 1. Population estimation and habitat estimation of Rhododendron niveum in Sikkim 2. Developing conservation and management strategies Study Area Figure 23 Sampling sites of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS 2. Species, recommended by expertise, available in the state but whose population and / or conservation criteria have not been assessed. 3. Species endemic to Indo Burma Hotspot. 4. Species of conservation and socio economic signiicance to the state. The detail survey mainly for population estimation, habitat and threat assessment was carried out in Yaksay area and portion of Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Lachung range, north district of Sikkim (Figure 23) during the month of May-June 2013, season when majority of the plants were in lowering stage and at the peak stage of their growth. The elevation of the survey site range from 3100 3400m lying between 27043’27” - 27045’11” N Longitude and 88044’41” E Latitude and is faced towards East. The slope angle of the sampled area ranged from 15 degree to 60 degree. The area is dry and rocky and the vegetation is moderately disturbed due to road clearings, grazing and boulders etc. the site characteristics of Rhododendron niveum are given in Annexure VI. The vegetation is characterised by sub-alpine 5. Species reported to be in conlict, with forest and the area is highly dominated by small human habitations tree or shrubs mainly Viburnum erubescence, Salix longilora, Salix radinostachya, 6. Species that can contribute to knowledge Enkianthus deloxus etc. Tree species are very gaps in ongoing State/ National level studies less prevalent in an area. Very few species of trees The MOD of the project provides examples of were recorded in the study site namely, Abies lagship fauna; it is silent on the loral lagships densa, Larix grifithii, Acer caudatum, Betula of the state. Rhododendron niveum, for being utilis, Sorbus microphylla etc. The ground is the State Tree of Sikkim was recommended 76 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 24 Rhododendron niveum potential sites in Sikkim highly covered with shrubs of Rhododendrons like Rhododendron lepidotum, Rhododendron baileyi, Rhododendron ciliatum and the species of Juniperus, Rosa, Gaultheria, etc. Since Yumthang valley is famous for Rhododendrons, amongst two Rhododendron sanctuaries in Sikkim, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in this valley. The Rhododendron species recorded in subalpine region of the valley during the present survey includes Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendorn arboreum, Rhododendron barbatum, Rhododendron campanulatum, Rhododendron baileyi, Rhododendron campylocarpum, Rhododendron ciliatum, Rhododendron cinnabarinum, Rhododendron decipiens, Rhododendron fulgens, Rhododendorn glaucophyllum, Rhododendron hodgsonii, Rhododendron lepidotum, Rhododendron nivale, Rhododendron maddenii, Rhododendorn niveum, Rhododendron pendulum, Rhododendron setusum, Rhododendron sikkimense, Rhododendron thomsonii, Rhododendron trilorum, Rhododendron vaccinoides, Rhododendron wightii etc. The alpine areas were highly dominated by different shrubs and scrubs of Rhododendrons along with other species. Methodology Review of literature Prior to ield survey, extensive literatures including journal publications, reports etc. were reviewed. In addition to web search, the experts from different institutions of Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 77 the state such as Botanical Survey of India (BSI) Sikkim Himalayan Circle, GB Pant Institute of Himalayan and Environment Development (GBPIHED), Sikkim Unit, and Department of Science and Technology were also consulted. On the basis of the available literature and consultation with the experts, the two potential areas for Rhododendron niveum in Sikkim were identiied both in north Sikkim i.e, Yakchey in Lachung Range and Tholung - Kishong eco-trail, Dzongu Range, Khangchendzonga National Park (Figure 24). Field Survey To begin with, a ield survey was conducted in Yakchey, Lachung Range, north Sikkim during May – June 2014. Following standard quadrat method, the population of R. niveum was estimated in 32 plots of 10m x 10m size which was laid randomly in the selected sites covering 0.32 ha area. In each plot, the adult individuals of Rhododendron niveum were enumerated and the circumference at stem base (5 cm above the ground) was measured. Further, the enumeration of the associated species inside the plots was also done. Further 78 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Inorder to quantify the saplings, a plot of 5m x 5m were laid at the center of the main plot and seedlings were recorded in 05 quadrats of 1m x 1m, 04 in the corners and 01 in the centre of the main plot. Broad habitat and micro-habitat of Rhododendron niveum were also noted down to identiy the suitable habitat requirement for the species. The availability of shrubs / shrublets and herbs were recorded using the same 5m x 5m and 1m x 1m quadrats. The altitude, coordinates of each plot were recorded using hand held GPS; the slope and aspect were recorded using magnetic compass; humus depth was measured using standard steel scale. The available threats were also recorded from the management point of view. In addition, soil samples were collected from each site following standard soil sampling guidelines and were analyzed for different parameters such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH and organic carbon content, which were used to correlate with the availability and the growth of Rhododendron niveum in its natural habitat. Data were analyzed for density, frequency, dominance, etc. Habitat of Rhododendron niveum Field data collection for Rhododendron niveum Taking measuring of girth of Rhododendron niveum Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 79 Results and Discussions During the study, Rhododendron niveum was found growing in open, rocky / bouldery slope, open grassy / moss covered slope, shrubberies, etc. along 3000 to 3500 m asl in association with other species. A total of 51 associated species were recorded from the sampling plots including trees (5 species), small trees / large shrubs (7 species), small shrub / shrublet (18 species) and herbs (21 species) [Table 13] belonging to thirteen families; of which Ericaceae was the dominant family over other families (Figure 25); however, Rhododenron niveum was dominant over other species in terms of availability in majority of the plots. Table 13 Associated species of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS Species Local name Family Abies densa Grifith.ex Parker Gobre salla Pinaceae Acer sp. Lekh kapasey Aceraceae Tree Larix grifithii Hook.f. Pinaceae Prunus nepalensis (Ser.)Stud. Arupatey Rosaceae Rhododendron arboreum Smith Lali gurans Ericaceae Rato angeri Ericaceae Small Tree / Large Shrub Enkianthus delexus Griff. Juniperus recurva Buch.-Ham.ex D.Don Cupressaceae Lyonia ovalifolia Wall. Angeri Rosaceae Salix deltoniana Anderson Bais Salicaceae Salix longilora Wall.ex Andersson Bais Salicaceae Salix radinostachya Bais Salicaceae Viburnum nervosum D.Don Asare Caprifoliaceae Berberis angulosa Wall.ex Hook.f. Chutre kada Berberidaceae Berberis concinna Hook. Chutre kada Berberedaceae Berberis ignorata C.K.Schneider Chutre kada Berberedaceae Cassiope fastigata (Wall.)D.Don Chutre kada Berberedaceae Daphne cannabina Lour.ex Wall Kalo argeli Thymelaeaceae Gaultheria hookeri C.B.Clarke Dhasingre Ericaceae Juniperus recurva Buch.-Ham.ex D.Don Shukpa dhup Cupressaceae Rhododendron baileyi Balf.f. Bailey ko gurans Ericaceae Shrub / Shrublets 80 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Rhododendron ciliatum Hook.f. Junge chimal Ericaceae Rhododendron glaucopyllum Rehder Shukpa dhup Cupressaceae Rhododendron lepidotum Wallich ex G.Don Bhalesunpati Ericaceae Rhododendron thomsonii Hook.f. Ericaceae Rhododendron trilorum Hook.f. Ericaceae Rosa sericea Lindl. Bhote gulab Rosaceae Sambucus sp. Adoxaceae Spiraea bella Rosaceae Viburnum erubescence Wall. Ex DC Asare Capriloliaceae Bukiful Asteraceae Herb Anaphalis hookeri Clarke ex Hook.f. Anemone sp Ranunculaceae Arisaema lavum (Forssk.) Schott. Banko / Larua Araceae Arisaema echinatum (Wall.) Schott. Banko / Larua Araceae Artemesia myriantha Wall. ex Bess Titepati Arisaema grifithii Schott. Banko / Larua Araceae Artemisia myriantha Wall.ex.Bess Titepati Asteraceae Artemisia vulgaris L. Titepati Asteraceae Aster albescens (DC.)Hand-Mazz. Asteraceae Bistorta afinis (D.Don) Greene Polygonaceae Carex alpina Swartz. Harkatto Cyperaceae Clintonia udensis Trautvetter & C.A.Meyer Fragaria nubicola Lindley ex Lacaita Liliaceae Vui Aiselu Geranium nepalense Sweet Rosaceae Geraniaceae Panax bipinnatiidus Seem Ginsing Araliaceae Panax sikkimensis Wall. Ginsing Araliaceae Primula denticulata Smith Primulaceae Smilacina oleraceae (Baker) Hook.f. Smilaceae Streptopus simplex D.Don Liliaceae Synotis wallichii (DC) Jeffrey & Chen Asteraceae Viola bicolour Pursh. Violaceae Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 81 Figure 25 Family-wise availability of associated species of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS Figure 26 Plot-wise availability of adult individuals of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS 82 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 27 Plot-wise availability of saplings of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS Figure 28 Plot-wise availability of seedlings of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 83 Of the 32 plots sampled, adult, saplings and seedlings of Rhododendron niveum was present in 43.8%, 50.0% and 40.6% plots. The adult individuals per plot ranged between 1 ind/100m2 (plot 6, 11, 18) to 15 ind/100m2 (plot 15) [Figure 26]; the sapling availability ranged between 8 ind/100m2 (plot 32) to 80 ind/100m2 (plot 12) [Figure 27] and the seedling availability ranged between 400 ind/100m2 (plot 15, 32) to 4400 ind/100m2 (plot 27) [Figure 28]. The result indicates that the area possesses good population of Rhododendron niveum even though area is under high anthropogenic as well as natural pressure like grazing, road clearing/cleaning, increasing tourism, avalanches, lash loods, landslides, etc. The low adult individuals in the area may be correlated to the above disturbances which prohibit the seedlings and saplings to reach adult stage. Increasing altitude showed insigniicant correlation with the adult (r = -0.304, p<0.10) [Figure 29] and sapling (r = -0.294, p<0.20) density [Figure 30]; whereas, it did not show any signiicant correlation with the seedling density (r = 0.014; ns) [Figure 31]. This may be due to that fact that Rhododendron niveum has localised distribution and does not extend beyond its altitudinal range due to which it is less impacted by the increasing altitude. Similalry, humus depth was signiicantly correlated with the adult (r = 0.544; p<0.01) and seedling density (r = 0.482; p<0.01) but showed insigniicant correlation with the sapling density (r = 0.287; p<0.20). This reveals that high humus should be maintained in order to conserve the Rhododendron niveum in the area. The density of adult individuals did not show any signiicant correlation with the nitrogen (r = -0.128), phosphorus (r = -0.314), potassium (r = -0.089), pH (r = -0.361) and organic content (r = 0.034) of the soil. With regard to saplings, no signiicant correlation was observed between its density and the soil parameters (nitrogen, r = -0.161; potassium, r = -0.073; pH, r = -0.252; organic carbon, r = -0.196) except phosphorus content, which revealed insigniicant correlation with the sapling 84 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Figure 29 Altitudinal distributions of adult individuals of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shinga RS Figure 30 Altitudinal distributions of saplings of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba RS Figure 31 Altitudinal distributions of seedlings of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchay – Shingba RS Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 85 availability (r = 0.386; p<0.20). Similalry, there was no signiicant correlation between its availability and the soil nutrients (nitrogen, r = -0.290; phosphorus, r = 0.194; potassium, r = -0.022; organic carbon, r = 0.046) except pH which disclosed insigniicant correlation (r = -0.516; p<0.10). It is clear from the avove result that nutrient content has less impact on the availability of Rhododendron niveum but it requires acidic soil for better survival and growth as revealed from the soil samples collected, which were acidic in nature with pH ranging from 4.20 – 6.20. The average height of the adult individuals, which revealed insigniicant correlation with the altitude (r = -0.344; p<0.10) and the phosphorus content of the soil (r = -0.461; p<0.01), ranged between 2.00 m and 4.25 + 0.95m; other soil parameters did not reveal any signiicant correlation with the average height of the adult individuals of Rhododendron niveum; however, was signiicantly correlated with the humus depth (r = 0.545; p<0.01). The average number of stems per plant ranged between 1 and 15 in the sample plots and did not show any signiicant relation with the increasing altitude (r = 0.174; ns) but was insigniicantly correlated with the humus depth (r = 0.391; p<0.05); the maximum and the minimum TBC was recorded in plot 5 (639.18 m2/0.1 ha) and plot 6 (0.32 m2/0.1 ha), repectively. Rhododendron niveum does not attain much height and has straggling structure due to which its categorization as tree needs to be redeined as it does not resemble true tree, but in rare cases, a true trunk is seen in the species (Pradhan and Lachungpa, 2015). However, the gregarious and healthy growth does indicate the positive impact of soil nutrients on the growth and development of Rhododendron niveum. Identiied threats to the population of Rhododendron niveum 86 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Disturbance and threat Rhododendron, the important component of biodiversity which, if disturbed, can degrade habitats and threaten the sustenance of other associated biodiversity in the particular zone. It has very slow growth rate, therefore the habitat disturbance may largely impact teir survivability. In the recent years the species of Rhododendrons have been greatly affected due to various threat posed by the nature as well as by human beings due to which, their natural population is gradually dwindling. The rise in human population with demand on land for farming, construction of roadways, hydro-power stations and allied works, army personnel garrisoned at alpine locations and lately the tourist inlux have collectively resulted in the building up considerable pressure on the survival of Rhododendron species in the nature. The major threats to the species of Rhododendrons are deforestation and unsustainable extraction for irewood and incense by the local inhabitants. However the population site of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey – Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located far from human habitation so no such human disturbance observed during the present study but the site is highly impacted by the natural as well as an anthropogenic disturbance like landslide, road cleanings and clearings, boulders grazings etc., which hitherto, needs special conservation efforts. Conservation Effort A drastic change in the natural habitat of Rhododendrons has become a strong issue raising question on the steps taken for the conservation and management of the species. At several places, rhododendron habitats have been severely impacted by the natural disaster and the man made disaster which has threaten the existence of the species. At this juncture, ex situ conservation is the only way to conserve and maintain the gene bank of the species and to prevent it from extinction. Various publications are available on the research, development and management of Rhododendrons globally. Much more information has been accumulated till date over these taxa on its growing conditions, reproductive methods, breading etc. Nevertheless, very little information is available on the seed germination of rhododendrons. In Sikkim the action oriented research on the conservation issues of Rhododendron niveum especially ex-situ conservation and its in-vitro propagation has been done by the GBPIHED, Sikkim Unit. Presently, JICA assisted Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project under the Department of Forest Environment and Wild Life Management has taken up as a test trial steps towards the management practices for Rhododendron niveum, an initiative towards its conservation and maintenance of gene bank. A nursery has been established at Pangthang (2000 m elevation), East Sikkim from the seeds collected from the Yakchey, for the mass propagation of Rhododendron niveum and other rhododendron species and to reintroduce it to its natural habitat (Table 14). For the same, the seeds were collected from the mother trees, which was identiied taking the help of experts from GBPIHED and tagged for seed collection during the lowering season (Figure 30). In this process, we have attained success to some extent in regard to seedling emergence; nevertheless, the survival rate is very poor which may be attributed to drastic change in the elevation, as the species belongs to sub-alpine forest growing above 3000 m asl (Figure 31). Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 87 Figure 30 Rhododendron species tagged for seed collection Yakchey – Shingba RS 88 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Tagging of mother tree Seeds collection Seeds of Rhododendron niveum Soil preparation Preparation of Nursery bed at Pangthang Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 89 Seeds sowing Figure 31 Monthly survival rate of Rhododendron niveum 90 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Seedling emergence Table 14 Rhododendron species under nursery management at Pangthang nursery Sl. no Botanical name Sl. no Botanical name 1 Rhododendron arboreum Smith subsp. arboreum (C.B. Clarke) Ridley 2 Rhododendron arboreum Smith subsp. cinnamomeum (Wallich ex G. Don) var roseum Lindley 3 Rhododendron barbatum Wall. ex G. Don 4 Rhododendron baileyi Balf. f. 5 Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don subsp. campanulatum 6 Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don subsp. campanulatum var. album 7 Rhododendron campylocarpum Hook. f. 8 Rhododendron ciliatum Hook. f. 9 Rhododendron cinnabarinum Hook. f. 10 Rhododendron decipiens Lacaita 11 Rhododendron fulgens Hook. f. 12 Rhododendron glaucophyllum Rehder 13 Rhododendron hodgsonii Hook. f. 14 Rhododendron lepidotum Wall. ex. G. Don. 15 Rhododendron niveum Hook. f. 16 Rhododendron sikkimense Pradhan & Lachungpa 17 Rhododendron thomsonii Hook. f. 18 Rhododendron wightii Hook. f. Conclusion Recommendations At present, the status of the species in the study area looks promising; nevertheless, the area is very prone to disturbances which may affect the availability of the species in future, if proper conservation managent steps are not undertaken. Ex-situ mechanism is the only way to conserve and maintain the gene bank for the important species like Rhododendron niveum. • Study on its reproductive biology, phenology, nutrient dynamics, etc. would help develop effective conservation strategy for the species. • More ield exploration in the other rhododendron potential areas meeds to be carried out to identify and locate new populations of Rhododendron niveum in Sikkim. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 91 References 1. Ali S (1989). The birds of Sikkim. Oxford University Press, New Delhi. 2. Arawatia ML and Tambe S (Eds.2011). Biodiversity of Sikkim, exploring and conserving a global hotspot. Information and Public Relation Department, Government of Sikkim, Gangtok. 3. Badola HK and Pradhan BK (2009). Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Sikkim: an explorer’s paradise. The Rhododendron 49: 24-30. 4. Badola HK and Pradhan BK (2010). Discovery of new populations of a rare species Rhododendron niveum in Khangchendzonga National Park. The Rhododendron 50: 40-49. 5. Badola HK and Pradhan BK (2010). Population exploration of Rhododendron maddenii in Sikkim, bordering Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve – questioning rarity and endangerment. NeBIO Vol. 1 (1). 6. Cowan and Cowan (1929). The trees of Northern Bengal including shrubs, woody climbers, bamboos, palms and tree ferns. International Book Distributors, Dehra Dun. 7. Gammie GA (1893). Account of a botanical tour in Sikkim during 1892. Chapter CCCXXXVI: Botanical Exploration of Sikkim-Tibet Frontier. Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information, Royal Gardens Kew, Nos 82-83: 297-315. 8. Ganguli-Lachungpa U, Islam MZ and Rahmani AR (2007). Important Bird Areas of Sikkim: Priority sites for conservation. FEWMD, Government of Sikkim, Gangtok. 92 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 9. Grimette R, Inspikk C and Inskipp T (2011). Birds of the Indian sub-continent. 2nd Edition, Oxford University Press, New Delhi. 10. Hajra PK and Verma DM (1996). Flora of Sikkim. Volume 1 (Monocotyledons). Deep Printers, New Delhi. 11. Hooker JD (1849). The Rhododendrons of Sikkim-Himalaya. L. Reeve & Co., London. 12. Hooker JD (1854). The Himalayan Journal or Notes of Naturalist. Vol I & 2, London. 13. Hooker JD (1872-1897). Flora of British India. Vol. I - VII. Reeve & Co., London. 14. Kholia BS (2010). Ferns and fern-allies of Sikkim. Beracah Printing & Stationeries, Gangtok. 15. Kholia BS (2014). Ferns and fern-allies of Sikkim. A Pictorial Handbook Part – II. Beracah Printing & Stationeries, Gangtok. 16. Kumar S and Singh V (2001). Asteraceae of Sikkim. Deep Publications, New Delhi. 17. Maity D and Maity GG (2007). The Wild Flowers of Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim. Naya Udyog, Kolkata. 18. Pradhan BK and Badola (2008). Ethnomedicinal plants used by Lepcha tribe of Dzongu valley, bordering Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in north Sikkim, India. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 4:22, doi: 10.1186/1746-4269-4-22. 19. Pradhan BK, Chewang D and Bhadauria SBS (2014). Population discovery and new elevation record for Rhododendron maddenii from Dzongu valley, Sikkim Himalaya (India). The Rhododendron 54: 22-29. 20. Pradhan BK, Bhadauria SBS and Lachungpa D (2013-2014). Tholung – Kishong, a potential ecotourism destination in Dzongu valley, north Sikkim, India. PANDA 6(4): 4-10. 21. Pradhan BK, Dahal S, Nilson J and Lachungpa D (2015). A note on Rhododendron mekongense – a new species record from Sikkim Himalaya. Journal of American Rhododendron Society 77: 76 - 80. 22. Pradhan BK and Lachungpa D (2015). Rapid Biodiversity Survey Report – I. Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project. FEWMD. Government of Sikkim, Deorali, Gangtok, East Sikkim, Pp – 120. 23. Pradhan KC (2008). Rhododendrons of Sikkim. Botanical Tours & Treks, Sikkim, India. 24. Pradhan UC and Lachungpa ST (1990). Sikkim Himalayan Rhododendrons. Primulaceae Books, Kalimpong, West Bengal. 25. Polunin O and Stainton A (1984). Flowers of the Himalaya. Oxford University Press. New Delhi. 26. Pradhan BK, Poudyal K, Bhadauria SBS, Subba S and Chewang D (2013). A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim. The Rhododendron 53: 11-20. 27. Rai TD and Rai LK (1994). Trees of Sikkim Himalaya. Indus Publishing House, New Delhi. 28. Roxburgh W (1832). Flora Indica. Vol I – III. Thacker & Co., Calcutta and Parbury, Allen & Co., London. 29. Singh, K.K. Rai, L.K. and Gurung, B. (2009). Conservation of Rhododendrons in Sikkim Himalaya: An overview. World Journal of Agricultural Sciences 5(3): 284296. 30. Stainton A (1988). Flowers of the Himalaya, a supplement. Oxford University Press, New Delhi. 31. White JC (1991). Sikhim and Bhutan: Twenty-one years on the north-east frontier 1887-1908. Vivek Publishing House, Delhi. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 93 94 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Annexure I Site characteristics of the sampling plots along Tholung – Kishong sampling path Site Code Forest Type Altitude (m asl) Coordinates Lat (N) Slope Slope Humus Angle (0) Aspect Depth (cm) Long (E) Disturbance Anthropogenic Natural TK1 Temperate forest 1953 27°36’16.7” 88°27’27.2” 20 SE 3.5 Stone wall TK2 Temperate forest 1989 27°36’31.2” 88°27’30.1” 10 SE 3.1 TK3 Temperate forest 2109 27°36’53.1” 88°27’38.2” 35 NE 3.2 TK4 Temperate forest 2115 27°36’71.1” 88°27’44.1” 20 S 2.7 TK5 Temperate forest 2200 27°37’29.7” 88°27’49.3” 5 E 2.0 TK6 Temperate forest 2268 27°37’46.5” 88°27’42.3” 30 E 3.6 TK7 Temperate forest 2404 27°38’07.3” 88°27’44.8” 15 S 2.1 TK8 Temperate forest 2470 27°88’22.9” 88°27’42.5” 50 E 5.0 TK9 Temperate forest 2536 27°39’01.2” 88°27’36.0” 20 E 3.7 TK10 Temperate forest 2617 27°39’11.1” 88°27’27.9” 20 SE 4.5 TK11 Temperate forest 2788 27°39’32.4” 88°27’19.9” 35 SE 5.1 TK12 Temperate forest 2867 27°39’36.7” 88°27’30.4” 35 SE 5.0 TK13 Temperate forest 2941 27°39’41.9” 88°27’11.8” 35 SE 2.0 TK14 Temperate forest 2964 27°40’04.1” 88°26’41.3” 35 NE 2.9 Grazing, cut stumps Landslide TK15 Temperate forest 2989 27°40’07.9” 88°26’34.1” 15 NE 4.6 Grazing, cut stumps Landslide Flash lood, landslide Grazing, cut stumps Flood, landslide Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 95 TK16 Sub-alpine forest 3020 27°40’31.7” 88°26’25.7” 50 S 5.0 Grazing, cut stumps TK17 Sub-alpine forest 3099 27°40’40.6” 88°26’26.3” 20 S 2.6 Grazing, cut stumps TK18 Sub-alpine forest 3286 27°41’03.8” 88°26’31.6” 15 E 1.8 TK19 Sub-alpine forest 3323 27°41’07.4” 88°26’28.6” 10 E 1.2 TK20 Sub-alpine forest 3352 27°41’16.5” 88°26’30.8” 15 SE 3.6 Landslide TK21 Sub-alpine forest 3400 27°41’23.8” 88°26’32.9” 20 S 3.5 Grazing, cut stumps, Landslide cattle shed TK22 Sub-alpine forest 3519 27°41’34.4” 88°26’29.7” 40 SE 2.9 TK23 Sub-alpine forest 3584 27°41’37.3” 88°26’22.9” 40 SE 4.6 TK24 Sub-alpine forest 3699 27°41’43.6” 88°26’18.0” 40 SE 4.1 TK 25 Sub-alpine forest 3977 27°41’56.5” 88°26’18.0” 60 SE 5.0 TK 26 Alpine forest 4009 27°42’14.0” 88°26’34.1” 20 SE 2.0 TK 27 Alpine forest 4041 27°42’40.7” 88°26’45.2” 10 E 1.5 TK 28 Alpine forest 4040 27°42’48.8” 88°26’57.0” 40 S 1.3 Grazing Landslide TK 29 Alpine forest 4085 27°42’53.0” 88°27’12.4” 40 S 1.7 Grazing Landslide TK 30 Alpine forest 4152 27°42’51.9” 88°27’22.5” 20 W 1.2 Grazing Landslide TK 31 Alpine forest 4226 27°42’56.7” 88°27’31.8” 70 S 0.8 Grazing, cut stumps, cattle shed 96 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Annexure II Floral species recorded along Tholung – Kishong sampling path in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, North Sikkim Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Large Tree Abies densa Grifith. ex Parker* Gobre salla Pinaceae 2800 – 3700 Least Concern Acer campbellii Hook. & Thom. ex Hiern.* Kapasey Aceraceae 1800 – 2700 Acer caudatum Wall.* Lekh Kapasey Aceraceae 1700 – 4000 Acer pectinatum Wall. ex Nicholson Lekh Kapasey Aceraceae 2300 – 3700 Acer stachyophyllum Hiern. Dalle kapasey Aceraceae 1400 – 3500 Alnus nepalensis Don.* Utis Betulaceae 200 – 2800 Beilschmiedia sikkimensis King ex Hook. f.* Tarsing Lauraceaea 300 – 2400 Betula alnoides Buch. Ham ex Don Saur Betulaceae 700 – 2100 Least Concern Betula cylindrostachys Wall.* Saur Betulaceae 1400 – 2800 Least Concern Betula utilis Don.* Bhojpatra Betulaceae 2500 – 3800 Least Concern Castanopsis pupurella subsp. Purpurella (Miq.) N.P. Balakr. Patle katush Fagaceae 900 - 2500 Castanopsis tribuloides (Smith) A. DC Musre katush Fgaceae 450 - 2300 Cinnamomum impressinervium Meisn.* Sinkoli Lauraceaea 1500 – 2500 Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex Linn. F.) D. Don Dhuppi Taxodiaceae 900 – 2500 Echinocarpus dasycarpus Benth. Gobre Elaeocarpaceae 1500 – 2200 Elaeocarpus lanceaefolius Roxb.* Bhadrasey Elaeocarpaceae 1800 – 2500 Glochidion acuminatum Muell. Latikath Eophorbiaceae 1200 – 2200 Ilex sikkimensis Kurz. Lise Aquifoliaceae 2100 – 3000 Juniperus sp. Shukpa dhup Cupressaceae Encountered at ca. 3100 Lithocarpus pachyhylla (Kurtz.) Rehder.* Sungurey katush Fagaceae 1800 -2700 Machilus edulis King ex Hook. f.* Pamsi / Lapche Phal Lauraceaea 1200 – 2500 Machilus odoratissima Nees.* Lali kawlo Lauraceaea 1500 – 2100 Magnolia campbellii Hook.f. & Thom.* Ghogey chanp Magnoliaceae 2400 – 3100 Least Concern Near Threatened Least Concern Regional Status Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Magnoliaceae 2100 – 2500 Data Deicient Phusrey chanp Magnoliaceae 1500 – 2200 Data Deicient 1500 – 2500 Magnolia doltsopa (Buch. – Ham. ex DC.) Figlar Rani chanp Magnolia lanuginosa (Wall.) Figlar & Noot. Regional Status Meliosma wallichii Planch. ex Hook. f Lekh dabdabey Sabiaceae Quercus lamellosa Smith.* Bajranth Fagaceae 1600 – 2800 Quercus lineata Blume.* Phlant Fagaceae 1800 – 2800 Rhododendron arboreum (CB Clarke) Ridley.* Lali gurans Ericaceae 1800 - 3600 Vulnerable to Sikkim Threatened in Sikkim; Endemic to Eastern Himalaya Rhododendron grande Wight.* Patley korlinga Ericaceae 1700 – 3000 Rhus insignis Hook.f. Kag bhalayo Anacardiaceae 900 – 1800 Rhus succedanea Linn.* Rani bhalayo Anacardiaceae 900 - 2200 Tsuga dumosa (D. Don) Eichler. * Tengre salla Pinaceae 2500 – 3000 Alangium begoniaefolium (Roxb.) Baill* Akhaney Alangiaceae 900 – 2500 Brassaiopsis alpina Clarke Bhote phutta Araliaceae 2100 – 2700 Small Tree and Large Shrub Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 97 Brasssiopsis hispida Seem. Phutta Araliaceae 1500 – 2100 Brassaiopsis mitis Clarke* Chuletro Araliaceae 1800 – 2400 Daphniphyllum himalayense (Benth.) Mull. Arg.* Lal chandan Euphorbiaceae 1500 – 2600 Erythrina arborescens Roxb. Phaledo Fabaceae 1500 – 2200 Eurya acuminata DC* Sanu jhingni Theaceae 700 – 3000 Ficus nemarolis Wall. Dudhilo Moraceae 1800 – 2500 Hydrangea heteromalla D. Don* Bogotey Hydrangeaceae Leucosceptrum cannum Smith.* Ghurpis Labiatae 1500 – 2500 Lyonia ovalifolia (Wall) D. Don* Angeri Ericaceae 700 – 3000 Macaranga denticulata (Blume) Mull. Arg.* Malata Euphorbiaceae 1100 – 2100 Prunus undulata Buch. Ham. ex D. Don Lali Rosaceae 1000 – 2200 Encountered between 2200 - 3200 Least Concern 98 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Regional Status Pentapanax leschenaultia Seem.* Chinde Araliaceae 2100 – 3400 Rhododendron barbatum Wall. ex G. Don* Lal chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 3400 Rhododendron falconeri Hook.f.* Korlinga Ericaceae 2800 – 3300 Rhododendron hodgsonii Hook.f.* Korlinga Ericaceae 3000 – 3800 Rhododendron niveum Hook. Hiu pate gurans Ericaceae 3000 – 3600 Endangered in Sikkim Rhododendron thomsonii Hook. f.* Dr. Thomson ko gurans Ericaceae 3000 – 3800 Vulnerable to Sikkim Rhododendron wightii Hook. f.* Dr. Wight ko gurans Ericaceae 3400 – 4300 Rare in Sikkim; Endemic to eastern Himalaya Saurauia napaulensis DC Gagun Actinidaceae 400 – 3200 Sorbus ursina (Wall.) Decne.* Lek Pasi Rosaceae 2700 – 5400 1200 – 2700 Symplocos glomerata King ex C. B. Clarke Kholmey Symplocaceae Symploccos kuroki H. Nagamasu* Kharaney Symplocaceae 1500 – 3000 Tetradium trichotoum Lour.* Khanakpa Rutaceae 1200 – 2500 Viburnum erubescence Wall. ex DC* Asare Caprifoliaceae 1500 – 2700 Viburnum nervosum D. Don* Bara asarey Caprifoliaceae 3000 – 4000 (in Sikkim) Viburnum sp. Asarey Caprifoliaceae Encountered at ca. 2700 Encountered at ca. 2500 Unidentiied sp.* Zanthoxyllum acanthopodium DC Boke timmur Rutaceae 1600 – 2800 Araliaceae Encountered at ca. 3300 Shrub and Scrub Aralia sp.* Berberis aristata DC Berberis sp.1* Chutro Chutro Berberidaceae 2700 – 3400 Berberidaceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Threatened in Sikkim Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Berberis sp.2* Chutro Berberidaceae Encountered at ca. 4000 Daphne bholua Buch. –Ham. ex D. Don* Kalo argeli Thymelaeaceae 1800 – 3000 Lardizabalaceae 900 – 3600 Decaisnea insignis (Grriff.) Hook. f. & Thom. Edgeworthia gardneri Meissn. Argayle/Kagate Thymelaeaceae 1500 – 3000 Gaultheira nummulariodes D. Don Dhasingre Ericaceae 3000 – 4000 Gaultheria hookeri C. B. Clarke* Dhasingre Ericaceae 2500 – 3800 Gaultheria trichophylla Royle Dhasingre Ericaceae 3000 – 4700 Hypericum choisyanum Wall. ex Roxb. Urilo Clusiaceae 1600 – 2800 Aquifoliaceae 2500 – 3000 (in Sikkim) Illex intricata J. D. Hooker* Juniperus indica Bertol. Gokul dhup Cupressaceae 4000 – 4600 Least Concern 3500 – 4600 Least Concern Regional Status Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 99 Juniperus recurva Buch. Ham. ex D. Don* Shukpa dhup Cupressaceae Maesa rugosa C.B. Clarke* Lek bilauney Myrsinaceae 2000 - 2800 Maesa sp.* Bilauney Myrsinaceae Encountered at ca. 3100 Mahonia napaulensis DC* Chutro Berberidaceae 1500 – 2500 Rhododendron aeruginosum Hook. f.* Nilo pate chimal Ericaceae Threatened in Sikkim Rhododendron anthopogon D. Don* Sunpati Ericaceae 3600 – 4800 Threatened in Sikkim; Vulnerable in North East Rhododendron camellilorum Hook. f. Chia phule gurans Ericaceae 2700 – 3600 Endemic to eastern Himalaya Rhododendron campylocarpum Hook. f.* Bango phale gurans Ericaceae 3300 – 4000 Rhododendron ciliatum Hook. f. Junge chimal Ericaceae 2700 – 3900 Threatened in Sikkim; Endemic to eastern Himalaya Ericaceae 2000 – 4000 Rare in Eastern Himalaya Rhododendron edgeworthii Hook. 100 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Rhododendron fulgens Hook. f.* Chimal Ericaceae 3100 – 3800 Rhododendron glaucophyllum Rehder. Takma chimal Ericaceae 2700 – 4000 Rhododendron lanatum Hook. f. Bhutle chimal Ericaceae 3600 – 4200 Rhododendron lepidotum Wall. ex G. Don Bhale sunpati Ericaceae 3600 – 4500 Rhododendron pendulum Hook. Jhundine chimal Ericaceae Rhododendron setosum D. Don* Tsallu gurans Ribes grifithii Hook. & Thom. Rare in Sikkim Endemic to eastern Himalaya Rare in Sikkim Ericaceae 3600 – 4800 Saxifragaceae 2600 – 4200 Rosa sericea Lindl.* Bhote gulab Rosaceae 3000 – 4000 Rubus acuminatus Smith Sanu aiselu Rosaceae 1800 – 2500 Rubus ellipticus Smith* Aiselu Rosaceae 900 – 2200 Rubus lineatus Reinw.* Aiselu Rosaceae 1800 – 2700 Rubus nepalensis (Hook. f.) Kuntze Bhui ainselu Rosaceae 2100 – 3200 Rubus paniculatus Smith* Aiselu Rosaceae 1500 - 3200 Rubus sp.* Bhalu aiselu Rosaceae Encountered between 3200 - 4000 Salix calyculata Hook. f. ex Andersson Bais Salicaceae 3400 - 4700 Salix psilostigma Andersson* Bais Salicaceae 3000 - 3600 Solanum aculeatissimum Jacq.* Boksi kara Solanaceae Upto 2800 Vaccinium retusum (Grifith.) Hook. f. ex Clarke* Mussikane Ericaceae 2100 – 2800 Aconitum ferox Wall. ex Ser.* Bikhma Rununculaceae 3200 – 3800 (in Sikkim) Aconogonum molle (D. Don) Hara* Thotney Polygonaceae 1200 – 3500 Polygonaceae 2200 – 4500 Herb Aconogonum polystachyum (Wall. ex Meisn.) K. Haraldson* Lek thotne Regional Status Threatened in Sikkim Endemic to Himalaya Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Acorus calamus Linn. Bojo Acoraceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) R. M. King & H. Rob Kali jhar Asteraceae 300 – 2500 Ageratum conyzoides Linn. Elame jhar Asteraceae 300 – 2300 Allium prattii C. H. Wright* Jangli pyaj Liliaceae 2000 - 4900 cultivated upto ca. 1800 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 101 Amomum subulatum Roxb. Alaichi Zinziberaceae Anaphalis adnata Wall. ex DC Bukiful Asteraceae 900 – 2600 Anaphalis contorta (D. Don.) Hook. f.* Bukiful Asteraceae 2200 – 3800 Anaphalis margaritaceae Linn.* Bukiful Asteraceae 1800 – 2600 Anaphalis sp.* Bukiful Asteraceae Encountered above 4000 Anaphalis triplinervis (Sims.) Sim ex Clarke Bukiful Asteraceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Anemone sp.* Rununculaceae Encountered above 4000 Anemone vitifolia Buch. – Ham. Ex DC. Rununculaceae Encountered at ca. 2700 Angelica archangelica Linn. Apiaceae 3000 – 3300 Aralia sp.* Araliaceae Encountered at ca. 3500. Arisaema concinnum Schott.* Sapko makai Araceae 2000 – 3500 Arisaema echinatum (Wall.) ex Schott. Sapko makai Araceae 2600 – 3100 Arisaema grifithii Schott.* Sapko makai Araceae 2400 – 3000 Arisaema intermedium Blume* Sapko makai Araceae 2600 – 3400 Arisaema nepenthoides (Wall.) Mart* Sapko makai Araceae 2700 – 3600 Artemisia indica Willd.* Titepati Asteraceae 3000 – 3800 Artemisia sp.* Titepati Asteraceae Encountered at ca. 4000 Asteraceae 3600 – 4800 Aster himalaicus Clarke* Least Concern Regional Status 102 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Aster sp. Asteraceae Encountered at ca. 2600 Aster sp. Asteraceae Encountered at ca. 2600 Astilbe rivularis Buch. – Ham. ex D. Don* Budi okhati Astilbe sp.* Begonia rubella Buch. – Ham. ex D.Don* Magarkachi Begonia sp.* Saxifragaceae 1500 – 3200 Saxifragaceae Encountered at ca. 3200 Begoniaceae 600 – 2000 Begoniaceae Encountered between 2400 - 2700 Bergenia pacumbis (Buch. - Ham. ex D. on) C. Y. Yu & J. T. Lek ko Pakhanbet Saxifragaceae Pan* 3000 – 4000 Bidens pilosa Linn. Asteraceae 300 – 2500 Bistorta afinis (D. Don) Greene* Polygonaceae 3500- 4800 Bistorta vaccinifolia (Wall. ex Meisn.) Greene* Polygonaceae Encountered between 3000 – 4200 Boehmeria platyphylla D. Don* Boehmeria sp*. Kuro Urticaceae 300 – 2000 Kamley Urticaceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Brassicaceae Upto 3000 Bhotey saag Brassicaceae 2100 - 4000 Liliaceae 1200 – 3600 Kamley Cardamine hirsuta Linn* Cardamine macrophylla Willd. Cardiocrinum giganteum (Wall.) Makino Carex setigera D. Don* Sanu harkatto Cariceae 2300 – 4100 Carex sp.* Harkatto Cariceae Encountered at ca. 2000 Ericaceae 2800 – 4500 Apiaceae 500 – 2200 Gesneriaceae 900 – 2300 Cassiope fastigata (Wall.) D. Don* Centella asiatica Linn.* Chirita urticifolia Buch. – Ham. ex D. Don* Golpatta Least Concern Regional Status Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Asteraceae Encountered between 3000 – 3900 Lamiaceae 1000 – 3400 Clintonia udensis Trautv. & Meyer Liliaceae 1600 – 4000 Colocasis sp.* Araceae Encountered at ca. 2400 Cirsium sp. Clinopodium umbrossum (M. Bieb.) Kuntze Bilajor Commelinaceae 300 – 2800 Coriaria terminalis Hemsl. Ciriariaceae 1800 – 3700 Corydalis sp. Papaveraceae Cyananthus lobatus Wall. ex Benth. Campanulaceae Commelina paludosa Blume. Kane jhar Cyanodon radiatus Roth ex Roemer* Dubo Poaceae Cyperus rotundus Linn. Mothey Cyperaceae Delphenium sp.* Rununculaceae Encountered between 3000 – 3500 2800 – 4500 common upto ca. 3700 300 – 2400 Encountered between 3000 -3400 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 103 Dichrocephala integrifolia (L.f.) Kuntze Hacheu jhar Asteraceae 300 – 2000 Drymeria cordata Willd. Abhijalo Caryophyllaceae 300 – 2000 Elatostema platyphyllum Wedd.* Gagleto Urticaceae 1400 – 3000 Elatostema sp.* Gagleto Urticaceae Encountered between 2000 – 2600 Elsholtzia sp.* Lamiaceae Epilobium sikkimense Hausskn. Onagraceae Eragrostis ferrigunea (Thunberg) P. Beauvois* Banso Poaceae Encountered at ca. 3350 Encountered between 2500 – 3500 Encountered at ca. 2100 Least Concern Regional Status 104 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Eragrostis sp.* Local name Banso Family Poaceae Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Encountered between 1900 - 2600 Euphorbia sikkimensis Boiss.* Euphorbiaceae 2000 – 4200 Fimbristylis dichotoma Linn. (Vahl.) Cyperaceae 300 – 2100 Fragaria nubicola Lindley ex Lacaita* Vui aiselu Rosaceae 1800 – 3800 Galinsoga parvilora Cav. Udase Asteraceae 800 – 2500 Galium acutum var. himalayense (Klotzsch & Garcke) R. R. Mill* Asteraceae 2000 – 4100 Galium sp. (white lower) Rubiaceae Encountered at ca. 3000 Galium sp. (purple lower) Rubiaceae Encountered at ca. 3000 Gentiana afinis Griseb. Gentianaceae 3000 and above Gentiana sp.* Gentianaceae Encountered at ca. 4000 Gerenium sp.1* Gerniaceae Encountered at ca. 3100 Gerenium sp.2* Gerniaceae Encountered above 4000 *Hackelia sp.* Kuro Boraginaceae Encountered between 2000 – 2300 Hackelia uncinata (Royle ex. Benth) Fisch. Kuro Boraginaceae Encountered at ca. 3200 Hedychium spicatum Smith. Sara Zingiberaceae 1200 – 3200 Hemiphragma heterophyllum Wall. Lalgeri Scrophulariaceae 2600 – 4100 Heracleum nepalense D. Don* Chimping Apiaceae 2000 – 4000 Houttuyunia cordata Thunb. Gandhey jhar Saururaceae 300 – 2500 Clusiaceae Encountered between 3000 and 4000 Hypericum sp. (creeping)* Regional Status Least Concern Vulnerable/North East Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Impatiens falcifer Hook. f. Balsaminaceae 2500 – 3400 Impatiens racemosa DC.* Balsaminaceae 1300 – 3900 Impatiens urticifolia Wall.* Balsaminaceae 2700 – 3800 Inula sp.* Asteraceae Encountered between 3500 and 3700 Juncus himalensis Klotzsch* Juncaceae 3200 – 5200 Juncus sikkimensis Hook. Juncaceae 4000 – 4600 Juncus thomsonii Buch.* Juncaceae 2800 – 5000 Cyperaceae above 3900 Kyllinga brevifolia (Rottboll.) Hassk. Mothey Cyperaceae 300 – 2800 Laportea bulbifera (Seib. & Zucc.) Wedd.* Patle sisnu Urticaceae 1900 – 3300 Lecanthus peduncularis (Wall. ex Royle) Wedd.* Urticaceae 1200 – 3200 Ligularia ischeri (Ledeb.) Turcz. Asteraceae 2200 – 4600 Lobelia sp. Campanulaceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Maianthemum oleracea (Baker) LaFrankie Smilaceae Encountered at ca. 3200 Mazus surculosus D.Don Scrophulariaceae Kobresia sp.* Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 105 2000 – 3300 Encountered above 4000 Meconopsis sp.* Papaveraceae Myriactis nepalensis Less. Asteraceae 700 – 3700 Neanotis ingrata (Wall. ex Hook. f.) Lewis Rubiaceae 500 – 1500 Nepeta sp.* Lamiaceae Encountered between 2100 - 2600 Nepeta sp.* Lamiaceae Encountered at ca. 2964 Oxalidaceae 300 – 3400 Oxalis corniculata Linn. Amilo jhar Regional Status 106 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Oxyria digyna (Linn.) Hill Family Polygonaceae Oxytropis sp. Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) 2400 – 4000 Fabaceae Panax bipinnatiidum Seem. Ginseng Araliaceae Panax pseudo-ginseng (Wall.) Benth. Ex C. B. Clarke Ginseng Araliaceae Paris polyhylla Smith Satuwa 3000 – 4000 3000 – 4000 2000 – 3500 Parnassia wightiana Wall. Parnassiaceae 600 - 2000 Parnassia longipetala Handel-Mazzetti Parnassiaceae 2400 - 3900 Parochetus communis Buch. – Ham. ex D. Don* Fabaceae 1800 – 3000 Pedicularis siphonantha D. Don* Scrophulariaceae 3000 – 4500 Persicaria capitata (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) H. Gross* Ratneulo Polygonaceae 600 – 2400 Persicaria runcinata (Buch. – Ham. ex D.Don.) Masam.* Ratneulo Polygonaceae 1200 – 3900 Phlomis sp. Pilea scripta (Buch. – Ham ex D. Don) Wedd.* Lamiaceae Chipley Encountered at ca. 3200 Urticaceae 2000 - 3100 Pilea sp.* Chipley Urticaceae Encountered between 3200 - 3400 Pilea umbrosa Wall. ex Blume* Chipley Urticaceae 1200 – 2500 Plantago major Linn. Plantaginaceae 300 – 2800 Polygonatum cirrhifolium (Wall.) Royle Liliaceae 2000 – 4000 Potentilla peduncularis D. Don* Rosaceae 3000 – 4800 Primula sikkimensis Hook.* Primulaceae 3200 – 4400 Primula sp.* Primulaceae Encountered above 4000 Prunella vulgaris Linn. Lamiaceae 1200 – 3800 Least Concern Regional Status Botanical name Local name Ranunculus sp.* Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Ranunculaceae Encountered between 2700 - 4200 Rheum acuminatum Hook. f. & Thom.* Khokim Polygonaceae 2800 – 4200 Rheum nobile Hook. f. & Thom. Padamchal Polygonaceae 3900 – 4800 Crassulaceae 3600 – 5500 Liliaceae 1800 – 2900 Rosaceae 2100 – 4000 (in Sikkim) Rhodiola fastigiata (Hook. f. & Thom.) S. H. Fu* Rohdea nepalensis (Raf.) N. Tanaka* Janglee nakima Rubus nepalensis (Hook. f.) Kuntze.* Rumex nepalensis Spreng.* Halhalley Polygonaceae Salvia sp.* Lamiaceae 1200 – 4200 Encountered between 2500 - 3000 Satyrium nepalense D. Don Orchidaceae 2500 – 4000 Saussurea andersonii C.B. Clarke* Asteraceae 3500 – 4300 Saussurea fastuosa (Decne.) Sch. Bip.* Asteraceae 3200 – 4000 Saussurea unilora (DC) Wall. ex Sch. Bip.* Asteraceae 3600 – 4800 Saussurea obvallata (DC) Edgew. Topko gola Asteraceae 3800 – 4600 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 107 Saxifraga sp.* Saxifragaceae Encountered at ca. 3200 Sedum multicaule (Rose) Fedde. Crassulaceae 1300 – 3500 Sedum sp. Crassulaceae Encountered at ca. 3200 Selinum tenuifolium Salisb.* Umbelliferae 3000 – 4000 Senecio sp.* Toriphoole Asteraceae Encountered between 3000 – 3900 Silene sp. Caryophyllaceae Encountered above 4000 Smilacina sp.* Smilaceae Encountered at ca. 3000 Regional Status 108 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Stachys sp. Lamiaceae Encountered at ca. 2500 Stellaria lanata Hook. f. ex Edgew. & Hook. f. Caryophyllaceae Encountered at ca. 3100 Strobilanthes gossypina (Wall. ex Nees) Comb.* Kangaraito phool Acanthaceae Strobilanthes sp. Kibu ghans Strobilanthes alatus Steud. Kibu ghans 300 - 2400 Acanthaceae Encountered at ca. 3300 Acanthaceae 1200 – 2500 Gentianaceae 3000 – 4500 Apiaceae 3600 – 4100 Thalictrum chelidonii DC* Rununculaceae 2300 -3500 Trifolium repens Linn.* Fabaceae 1500 -2500 Triosetum himalayanum Wall. Caprifoliaceae 1800 – 4100 Arthromeris himalayensis (Hook.) Ching Polypodiaceae 2400 – 3000 Asplenium ensiforme Wall. ex Hook. & Grev. Aspleniaceae 1800 – 2800 Botrychium sp.* Ophioglossaceae Coniogramme procera (Wall.) Fee* Pteridaceae 1800 – 3200 Cyrtomium caryotideum (Wall. ex Hook. & Grev.) C. Presl Dryopteridaceae 1500 – 2700 Cyrtomium hookerianum (C. Presl) C. Chr. Dryopteridaceae 2000 – 3200 Dennstaedtia scabra (Wall. ex Hook) T. Moore Dennstaedtiaceae 1300 – 2600 Woodsiaceae 1500 – 2600 Swertia speciosa G. Don Tetraenium wallichii (DC) I. P. Mandenova* Chimping Fern and Fern Allies Deparia petersenii (Kunze) M. Kato Encountered at ca. 3300 Diplazium dilatatum Blume* Lek Chipley Ningro Woodsiaceae 1400 – 2500 Diplazium stoliczkae Beddome* Lek Kalo Ningro Woodsiaceae 1800 – 2800 Regional Status Botanical name Local name Family Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 109 Dryopsis apicilora (Wall. ex Mett.) Holttum & Edwards* Dryopteridaceae 2500 – 3500 Dryopteris redoactopinnata Basu & Panigrahi* Dryopteridaceae 2400 – 3400 Dryopteris sp.* Dryopteridaceae Encountered between 3900 - 4100 Dryopteris sparsa (Ham. ex D. Don) O. Ktze. Dryopteridaceae upto 1800 Elaphoglossum marginatum (Wall. ex Fee) T. Moore Lomariopsidaceae upto 2200 Lepisorus mehrae Fraser – Jenk Polypodiaceae 1500 – 2400 Lepisorus loriformis (Wall. ex Mett.) Ching Polypodiaceae 2000 – 3000 Lycopodium sp.* Lycopodiaceae Encountered between 2900 – 3100 Lycopodium sp.* Lycopodiaceae Encountered at ca. 4000 Matteuccia intermedia C. Chr.* Woodsiaceae 2600 – 3400 (Encountered above 2200) Monachosorum henryi H. Christ Dennstaedtiaceae 1800 – 2600 Odontosoria chinensis (L.) J. Smith* Lindsaeaceae 800 – 2200 Oleandra wallichii (Hook.) C. Presl Oleandraceae 1700 – 3000 Onychium japonicum (Thunb.) Kuntz Pteridaceae 1500 – 2200 Encountered between 3200 - 3400 Osmunda sp.* Osmundaceae Plagiogyria pycnophylla (Kuntze) Mett.* Plagiogyriaceae 1800 – 3000 Polypodiodes amoena (Wall. ex Mett.) Ching Polypodiaceae 1500 – 2500 Polystichium sp.* Dryopteridaceae Encountered between 3400 - 3700 Regional Status 110 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Botanical name Local name Family Pteris spinescens C. Presl Lek Thare Uniu Pteridaceae Pteris wallichiana J. Agardh* Chatey Uniu Pteridaceae Altitudinal IUCN Status Distribution (m asl) 2000 – 2700 800 - 2700 Encountered between 2200- 2700 Selaginella sp.* Selaginellaceae Vittaria lexuosa Fee Vittariaceae 1400 - 2600 Agapetes serpens (Wight) Sleumer Ericaceae 1200 – 2400 Calanthe sp. Orchidaceae Climber / Epiphyte/Orchids Cissus sp. Charcharey lahara Vitaceae Coscuta relexa Roxb. Pahelo/dabai lahara Diphylax sp. Convulvaceae 300 – 2000 Orchidaceae 1000 – 2700 Stauntonia angustifolia (Wall.) Christenh. Gulfa Piper boehmeriifolium (Wall. ex Miq) C. DC Chambo / Panpatta Piperaceae 500 - 2200 Rubia cordifolia Linn. Majito Rubiaceae 300 - 2800 Rubia manjith Roxb. ex Fleming Majito Rubiaceae 700 - 3600 Smilax elegans Wall. ex Kunth. Tamarki Liliaceae 2200 - 2800 Trichosanthes lepiniana (Naud.) Cogn. Indreni Cucurbitaceae 1200 - 2300 Drepanostachym intermedium Nigalo / Tite nigalo Poaceae Himalayacalamus sp.* Hangey maling Lardizabalaceae Bamboo Himalayacalamus falconeri (Hook. f. ex Munro) Keng. F.* Singane Poaceae Poaceae Regional Status Annexure III Site characteristics of the sampling plots in the Lachung Range, North Sikkim Site code Altitude (m asl) GPS Lat Humus Slope Slope Canopy Depth (cm) (degree) Aspect cover (%) Long Disturbance Anthropogenic YSM 01 3916 27 50’49.3” 88 41’26.2” 1.0 10 SE Nil YSM 02 3905 27 50’45.3” 88 41’25.7” 2.0 Mild SE Nil Natural Cut stumps YSM 03 3880 27 50’29.8” 88 41’29.1” 5.0 40 SE Nil Fuel wood collection YSM 04 3872 27 50’28.1” 88 41’31.6” 3.0 50 SE Nil Fuel wood collection YSM 05 3838 27 50’21.8” 88 41’32.7” 4.0 15 SE Nil YSM 06 3820 27 50’03.7” 88 41’37.7” 7.0 60 E Nil Cut stumps YSM 07 3779 27 49’51.5” 88 41’43.1” 5.0 60 E Nil Cut stumps YSM 08 3753 27 49’37.8” 88 41’42.3” 1.7 60 E Nil Cut stumps YSM 09 3709 27 49’28.9” 88 41’45.4” 7.0 40 SE Nil Cut stumps YSM 10 3648 27 49’80.8” 88 41’41.7” 8.0 30 NE 5 Cut stumps YSM 11 3701 27 49’18.4” 88 41’44.3” 4.0 60 NE Nil YSM 12 3692 27 49’09.8” 88 41’55.4” 3.6 40 NE 30 YSM 13 3680 27 49’06.1” 88 42’00.5” 1.7 20 NE Nil YSM 14 3654 27 48’53.0” 88 42’04.6” 2.0 10 E 60 Fuel wood collection YSM 15 3640 27 48’44.6” 88 42’11.1” 2.5 Mild E Nil cut stumps YSM 16 3642 27 47’58.3” 88 42’16.7” 3.9 Mild E 5 cut stumps YSM 17 3641 27 47’53.6” 88 42’20.6” 3.2 Mild E 50 YSM 18 3631 27 47’42.5” 88 42’21.8” 3.6 Mild E 20 YSM 19 3613 27 47’30.2” 88 42’26.3” 3.7 5 E Nil YSM 20 3607 27 47’20.3” 88 42’31.8” 0.6 10 E Nil Cut stumps YSM 21 3606 27 47’07.9” 88 42’38.00” 5.7 Mild E 60 Dead logs high YSM 22 3591 27 46’48.2” 88 42’46.7” 5.0 20 E 80 cut stumps YSM 23 3490 27 46’33.3” 88 42’55.9” 7.0 20 E 90 cut stumps YSM 24 3452 27 46’18.6” 88 43’01.9” 4.0 15 E 70 YSM 25 3438 27 46’08.8” 88 43’01.7” 2.7 30 E 30 YSM 26 3422 27 45’59.8” 88 43’10.7” 1.0 Mild E Nil YSM 27 3386 27 45’36.9” 88 43’13.1” 2.0 Mild NE Nil YSM 28 3395 27 45’15.4” 88 43’47.8” 1.7 10 E 100 YSM 29 3360 27 45’02.4” 88 43’58.6” 1.0 Mild E Nil YSM 30 3312 27 44’41.4” 88 44’15.1” 2.0 Mild E Nil YSM 31 3205 27 43’53.7” 88 44’31.7” 1.0 10 E Nil Avalanche YSM 32 3202 27 43’47.7” 88 44’30.6” 1.0 Mild E Nil Avalanche Numerous dead logs Avalanche Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 111 112 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Annexure IV Checklist of the loral species recorded between Singhba Rhododendron Sanctuary and Shiv Mandir, Lachung Range, North Sikkim Species Local Name Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) TREE Abies densa Grifith. ex Parker* Gobre salla Pinaceae 2800 – 3700 Acer caudatum Wall. Lekh Kapasey Aceraceae 1800 – 2700 Betula utilis Don.* Bhojpatra Betulaceae 2500 – 3800 Pinaceae 2400 – 4000 Larix grifithii Hook.f.* Prunus nepalensis (Ser.) Stud. Arupatey Rosaceae 1200 – 3100 Rhododendron arboreum var. arboreum (CB Clarke) Ridley Lali gurans Ericaceae 1800 - 3600 Salix sp.* Bais Salicaceae Encountered between 2500 – 3800 Sorbus microphylla (Wall. ex J. D. Hooker) Wenzig* Pasi Ericaceae 3000 – 4000 Enkianthus delexus (Griff.) C.K. Schneid Rato angeri Ericaceae 2500 – 3300 Hydrangea heteromalla D. Don Bhogote Hydrangeaceae 2400 – 3300 Lyonia ovalifolia (Wall.) Drude * Angeri Rosaceae 700 – 3000 Rhododendron barbatum Wall. ex G. Don* Lal chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 3400 Rhododendron decipiens Lacaita* Jhukaune Chimal Ericaceae 3300 – 3800 Rhododendron hodgsonii Hook.f.* Korlinga Ericaceae 3000 – 3600 Rhododendron niveum Hook.* Hiu pate gurans Ericaceae 3000 – 3800 Rhododendron thomsonii Hook. f.* Dr. Thomson ko gurans Ericaceae 2600 – 4200 Salix daltoniana Andersson Bais Salicaceae 3000 – 4400 Viburnum nervosum D. Don* Asare Caprifoliaceae 3000 – 4000 SMALL TREE / LARGE SHRUBS SHRUB / SHRUBLET Araliaceae At 3200 Chutre kada Berberidaceae At 3700 Berberis ignorata C.K. Schneider Chutre kada Berberidaceae 2700 – 3800 Berberis virescens J.D. Hooker Chutre kada Berberidaceae 3600 – 4100 Acanthopanax sp. Berberis concinna J.D. Hooker* Species Local Name Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) Cassiope fastigata (Wall.) D. Don Phallu Ericaceae 3000 – 4000 Daphne cannabina Lour. ex Wall. Kalo argeli Thymelaeaceae 1700 – 3300 Gaultheria hookeri C. B. Clarke* Dhasingre Ericaceae 1000 – 3800 Gaultheria pyroloides Hooker f. & Thomson ex Miquel Dhasingre Ericaceae 3600 – 4000 Gaultheria trichophylla Royle Dhasingre Ericaceae 3000 – 4700 Aquifoliaceae 3000 – 4000 Ilex intricata J. D. Hooker Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 113 Juniperus recurva Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don* Shukpa dhup Cupressaceae 3500 – 4600 Rhododendron baileyi I.B. Balfour Bailey ko chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 4800 Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don* Nilo Chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 4300 Rhododendron camellilorum Hook. f. Chia phule gurans Ericaceae 3300 – 4000 Rhododendron campylocarpum Hook. f.* Bango phale gurans Ericaceae 3000 – 3600 Rhododendron cilliatum Hook. f. Junge chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 3800 Rhododendron cinnabarinum Hook. f.* Sano chimal Ericaceae 3100 – 3800 Rhododendron fulgens Hook. f Chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 3800 Rhododendron glaucophyllum Rehder. Takma chimal Ericaceae 3600 – 4500 Rhododendron lepidotum Wallich ex G. Don* Bhale sunpati Ericaceae 2500 – 5000 Rhododendron pendulum Hook. Jhundine chimal Ericaceae 3400 – 4300 Rhododendron sikkimense Pradhan & Lachungpa Sikkime gurans Ericaceae 1200 – 4300 Rhododendron wallichii Hook. f. Wallich ko chimal Ericaceae 3000 – 4300 Rhododendron wightii Hook. f.* Dr. Wight ko gurans Ericaceae 3500 – 4500 Grossulariaceae 3000 – 4000 Grossulariaceae Encountered above 2500 Ribes grifithii Hook. & Thoms Ribes sp.* Bhote gulab Rosaceae 3000 – 4000 Rosaceae Encountered above 3200 Salix calyculata Hook. f. ex Andersson* Bais Salicaceae 3400 – 4700 Salix longilora Wall. ex Andersson* Bais Salicaceae 500 – 4000 Salix sikkimensis Andersson Bais Salicaceae 3700 – 4500 Rosa sericea Lindl.* Rubus sp. 114 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Species Local Name Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) ca. 2500 Vaccinium retusum (Grifith) Hook. f. ex C.B. Clarke* Mussikane Ericaceae Vaccinium vacciniaceum (Roxburgh) Sleumer Mussikane Ericaceae Vibrunum erubescence Wall. ex DC* Asare Caprifoliaceae Bikhma Rununculaceae 2100 – 3800 Aconogonum molle (D. Don) H. Hara* Thotne Polygonaceae 1300 – 3200 Anaphalis adnata Wall. ex DC* Bukiful Asteraceae 1200 – 3300 Anaphalis busua (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) DC* Bukiful Asteraceae 1800 – 3600 Anaphalis hookeri Clarke ex Hook. f.* Bukiful Asteraceae 3000 – 3700 (Encountered upto 3300) 2400 – 2700; (Encountered at 3200) 1500 – 2700 (Encountered upto 3300) HERB Aconitum ferox Wall. ex Ser.* Anemone sp. Rununculaceae Encountered between 3000 – 3600 Arisaema echinatum (Wall.) Schott. Banko/larua Araceae 2700 – 3300 Arisaema lavum (Forssk.) Schott.* Banko/larua Araceae 1700 – 3600 Arisaema grifithii Schott.* Banko/larua Araceae 2400 – 3600 Artemesia myriantha Wall. ex Bess Titeypati Asteraceae 1200 – 3900 Arundinaria maling Gamble Malingo Poaceae 1800 – 3600 Asteraceae 2400 – 3900 Aster albescens (DC.) Hand.-Mazz.* Saxifragaceae 1500 – 3200 Bistorta afinis (D. Don) Greene* Polygonaceae 3500- 4800 Bulbostylis densa (Ball.) Hand. – Mazz Cyperaceae 300 – 4100 Cacalia mortonii (Clarke) Kitam ex H. Koyama Asteraceae 2400 – 3600 Astilbe rivularis Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don Budi okhati Carex alpine Swartz.* Harkatto Cyperaceae Encountered between above 3000 Carex fragilis Boott.* Harkatto Cyperaceae 2700 – 3300 Carex gracilenta Boott. Harkatto Cyperaceae 3300 – 4200 Carex haematostoma Nees* Harkatto Cyperaceae 3300 – 5100 Carex lehmannii Drejer Harkatto Cyperaceae 3600 – 3900 Carex monopleura Kretz. Harkatto Cyperaceae 2700 – 3600 Carex psychrophila Nees Harkatto Cyperaceae At 3600 Species Local Name Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) Carex pulchra Boott. Harkatto Cyperaceae 2100 – 3300 Carex rara Boott. Harkatto Cyperaceae 3000 – 3900 Cardamine macrophylla Willdenow* Bhotey Saag Brassicaceae 2100 – 4000 Cardiocrinum giganteum (Wall.) Makino Liliaceae 1800 – 3300 Cirsium argyracanthum DC Asteraceae 2400 – 3600 Clintonia udensis Trautvetter & C. A. Meyer* Liliaceae 1600 – 4000 Coriaria terminalis Hemsley Coriariaceae 1800 – 3700 Cremanthodium decaisnei Clarke Asteraceae 3600 – 4800 Cremanthodium sp. Asteraceae Encountered between 3000 – 3600 Delphinium sp. Rununculaceae Encountered between 2600 – 3200 Deschampsia caespitose (Linn.) P. Beauv. Poaceae 3600 – 4800 Euphorbia wallichii J. D. Hooker Euphorbiaceae 2000 – 4200 Rosaceae 1800 – 3800 Fritillaria cirrhosa D.Don* Liliaceae 1500 – 4800 Fritillaria delavayi Franch. Liliaceae 3000 – 5000 Galium rebae R.R. Mill Rubiaceae 2000 – 4000 Gentiana ornata (Wallich ex G. Don) Grisebach* Gentianaceae 3300 – 5000 Geranium nepalense Sweet Geraniaceae 1000 – 3600 Inula hookeri Clarke Asteraceae 2700 – 3600 Iris goniocarpa Baker Iridaceae 3600 – 4400 Isolepis setacea (Linn.) R. Br. Cyperaceae 3600 – 3900 Juncus benghalensis Kunth Juncaceae 1800 – 4000 Juncus clarkei Buchen. Juncaceae 3000 – 4100 Juncus concinnus D.Don Juncaceae 2100 – 4000 Juncus himalensis Klotzsch Juncaceae 3200 – 5200 Juncus sikkimensis Hook. f.* Juncaceae 3300 – 4300 Kobresia sp.* Cyperaceae above 3900 Fragaria nubicola (J. D. Hooker) Lindley ex Lacaita* Vui aiselu Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 115 116 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Species Local Name Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) Kobresia uncinoides (Boott.) Clarke Cyperaceae Above 3300 Lactuca bracteata Hook. f. & Thoms Asteraceae 2400 – 4000 Ligularia sp. Asteraceae Encountered between 2400 – 3300 Luzula sp. Juncaceae Encountered above 3200 Maianthemum oleraceum (Baker) La Frankie Liliaceae 2100 – 3300 Meconopsis paniculata Prain Papaveraceae 3000 – 4100 Meconopsis simplicifolia (D. Don) Walp.* Papaveraceae 3300 – 4500 Myricaria rosea Smith Tamaricaceae 3000 – 4400 Panax bipinnatiidus Seem.* Ginseng Araliaceae 3000 – 4000 Panax sikkimensis Ban. Ginseng Araliaceae 3000 – 4000 Paris polyphylla Smith Satuwa Liliaceae 2000 – 3500 Pedicularis roylei var. speciosa (Prain) T. Yamaz. Liliaceae Pedicularis siphonantha* Persicaria capitata (Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don) Gross Ratneulo Scrophulariaceae 3000 – 4600 Polygonaceae 600 – 2400 Phlomis sp. Lamiaceae Encountered at 3200 Pinguicula alpina Linnaeus Lentibulariaceae 1800 – 4500 Poa himalayana Nees ex Steud Poaceae 3000 – 4000 Polygonatum cathcartii Baker Liliaceae 2400 – 2900 Polygonatum chirrifolium (Wallich) Royle Liliaceae 2000 – 4000 Polygonatum hookeri Baker Liliaceae 3200 – 4300 Polygonatum verticillatum (Linn.) Allioni Liliaceae 2100 – 4000 Polygonaceae 1200 – 3500 Potentilla peduncularis D. Don* Rosaceae 3000 – 4800 Potentilla fruticosa var. pumila J.D. Hook Rosaceae 4200 – 5000 Primula calderiana I. B. Balfour & Cooper* Primulaceae 3200 – 4400 Primula denticulata Smith subsp denticulate* Primulaceae 2800 – 4100 Primula denticulata var. alba Smith* Primulaceae Ranunculus sp. Rununculaceae Polygonum molle D. Don.* Thotney Encountered at 3500 Encountered between 3000 – 3800 Species Rheum acuminatum J. D. Hooker & Thomson Local Name Khokim Roscoea alpina Royle* Rumex nepalensis Spreng.* Halhalley Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) Polygonaceae 2800 – 4200 Zingiberaceae 2400 – 3200 Polygonaceae 1200 – 4200 Salvia sp. Lamiaceae Encountered at 3600 Saussurea auriculata (Spreng. Ex DC) Sch.-Bip Asteraceae 3000 – 3900 Saussurea candolleana Wall. ex DC Asteraceae 3300 – 3600 Asteraceae 3600 – 5100 Smilacina oleracea (Baker) Hook. f.* Smilaceae Encountered between 3000 – 3400 Streptopus simplex D. Don Liliaceae 1700 – 4000 Synotis wallichii (DC) Jeffrey & Chen Asteraceae 2700 – 3750 Senecio albopurpurens Kitam.* Toriphool Toieldia himalaica Baker Trifolium sp. Liliaceae Amilo jhar Oxalidaceae 3200 – 3900 Encountered between 2400 – 3300 Trillium tschonoskii Maxim Liliaceae 2700 – 4000 Trisetum scitulum Bor. Poaceae At 3600 Typhonium diversifolium Wall. ex Schott. Araceae 3600 – 4000 Gentianaceae Encountered at 3300 Veronica sp. Viola bicolor Pursh.* Scrophulariaceae Violaceae Encountered at 3400 1500 – 2500 Viola sikkimensis W. Becker* Violaceae (Encountered between 3000 – 3300) 1500 – 2500 Swertia sp. Chirowto Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 117 (Encountered at 3400) FERN & FERN ALLIES Araiostigiella hookeri (T. Moore ex Bedd.) Fraser-Jenk Davalliaceae Athyrium davidii Christ. Woodsiaceae Above 3200 Deparia subsimilis (Christ.) Fraser-Jenk. Woodsiaceae 3000 – 3600 Dryopteris barbigera (T. Moore ex Hook.) Kunze Dryopteridaceae Above 3500 Dryopteris subimpressa Loyal. Dryopteridaceae 2400 – 3400 2700 – 3800 118 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Species Local Name Dryopteris xanthomelas (Christ) C. Chr. Lycopodium veithii Christ Nagbeli Family Altitudinal Range (m asl) Dryopteridaceae 3600 – 4300 Lycopodiaceae 2600 – 4000 Polystichum mehrae Fraser-Jenk Dryopteridaceae 2600 – 3400 Osmunda claytoniana L Osmundaceae 3000 – 4000 Pichisermollodes erythrocarpa Mett. ex Kuhn ( Fraser-Jenk) Polypodiaceae 2600 – 3400 Pichisermollodes fraser – jenkinsonii Polypodiaceae 2600 – 3400 Pichisermollodes quasidivaricata (Hayata) Fraser-Jenk Polypodiaceae 3000 – 3600 ORCHID Gymnadenia orchidis Lindl. Orchidaceae 3600 Habenaria cumminsiana King & Pantl. Orchidaceae 3300 Listera micrantha Lindl. Orchidaceae 3000 – 3300 Malaxis muscifera (Lindl.) O. Ktze. Orchidaceae 2250 – 4050 Neottianthe secundilora (Hook. f.) Schultr. Orchidaceae 2700 – 3300 Peristylus fallax Lindl. Orchidaceae 3000 – 3600 Platanthera leptocaulon (Hook. f.) Kranzl. Pleione hookeriana (Lindl) Rollisson Orchidaceae Orchidaceae 2700 – 4000 1600 – 3100 Observed between (2800 - 3300) MOSS / LICHEN / VINE Sphagnum squarrosum Sphagnaceae 2400 – 4000 Usnea himalayense Parmeliaceae 3000 – 4000 Clematis montana Ham. ex DC Ranunculaceae Seen between 2800 – 3400 Annexure V List of Rhododendron species of Sikkim Sl. Botanical name No. 1 Rhododendron anthopogon D.Don (Bearded Rhododendron) Nep: Dhupi Gurans Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 119 Habitat General distribution Status Habit / Key characters Open, rocky alpine slopes in association with R. setosum, R. nivale, R. lepidotum, Juniperus recurva, etc. World: Nepal, India, Tibet, Bhutan, China India: Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim: Yumthang – Yumey Samdong, TholungKishong, Thangu valley, Tamze MPCA (N); Dzongri- Samiti lake, Dzongri-HMI Base camp, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary (W); Tshangu, Baba Mandir, Dzaluk,Kupup, Gnathang (E), (3500 - 4500m) World: Bhutan, Nepal, Kashmir, S.E.Tibet, Burma, India. India: North and North East India including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Khasia and Naga hills and Manipur. Darjeeling district of west Bengal. Sikkim: In and around Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary along the Singhalila ridge, Yoksum – Dzongri, Dentam (W); Tholung-Kishong, Chungthang – Lachung, Lachen, Tinkitam, Tendong RF, Rabong RF (S); Pangthang and surrounding areas, Karponang- Changu (E)., (1800-3000m) World: Bhutan, Nepal, Kashmir, Burma, India, China India: Sikkim, Darjeeling district of west Bengal, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh. Sikkim: Pink form: In and around Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary along the Singhalila ridge, Tshoka, (W); Lachung, Lachen, TholungKishong (N); Karponang (E), (3000-3200m) White form: Singring area (N), (2300 - 2400m) World: Bhutan, India, China India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Distribution in Sikkim (Flora of China, Sastry & Hazra, 2010), (2700-3600) IUCN: NA Threatened in Sikkim Vulnerable in North East Prostrate or upright shrub. Leaves dark green above, Leaf buds scales deciduous, calyx hairy, inlorescence open topped. 2 Rhododendron arboreum Smith subsp. arboreum (C. B. Clarke) Ridley Syn: R.campbelliae Hook.f., Rhododendrons of Sikkim Himalaya (1849) (Arborescent Rhododendron) Nep: Lali gurans Temperate broad leaved mixed forest to sub alpine scrub in association with Lithocarpus sp., Magnolia sp, Abies densa, Tsuga dumosa etc. 3 Rhododendron arboreum Smith subsp. cinnamomeum (Wallich ex G. Don) var. roseum Lindley Syn: R. arboreum Smith var. album Wallich It grows along with Rhododendron arboreum var. arboreum in the open slopes of temperate and sub alpine region in association with Magnolia sp, Tsuga dumosa, etc. 4 Rhododendron argipeplum Balf. f. & Forrest. Secondary forest on mountain slopes, scrub IUCN : NA Tree Vulnerable in Lower surface of the Sikkim leaves with white to silvery indumentum, corolla red. IUCN : NA Vulnerable in Sikkim White lower form found very Rare with single individual. Tree Lower surface of leaves with yellowish – brown indumentum, corolla pink, to carmine rarely white with purple spotting in the throat. IUCN: NA Shrub or Small tree Leaves oblong- lanceolate to elliptic – lanceolate, upper surface regulose, lower surface with a thin, continuous, loose indumentums, white at irst turning to buff to rufous or greyish white; calyx glandular ciliate. 120 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sl. Botanical name No. 5 Rhododendron baileyi Balf.f. (Bailey’s Rhododendron) Nep: Bailey ko Chimal 6 7 Rhododendron barbatum Wall.ex.G.Don (Bristly Rhododendron) Nep: Lal Chimal Habitat Sub-Alpine to Alpine slope in highly association with R. lepidotum, R. thomsonii, R. sikkimense, etc. General distribution World: Bhutan, Tibet, India, China India: Sikkim Sikkim: Lachung – Yumthang (N) (3000-3500m) Subalpine forest in association with R. thomsonii, R. hodgsonii, Abies densa, R. falconeri, etc. World: Nepal, Bhutan, China India: Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal Sikkim: Singhalila Ridge, Tshoka – Kibek, Kalijhar – Chuwabhanjyang (W); Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary (Barmeli), Phedung (S), way to Tshangu, Gnathang – Padhamchen (E), Tholung Kishong, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (N) (3000-3700m) Rhododendron camelliilorum Subalpine Abies – World: Pakistan, India, Bhutan Hook.f. Rhododendron forest, usually India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Syn: R. sparsilorum Nuttall epiphytes or growing on rocks. Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (N); (Camellia-lowered Bakhim- Phetang - Kokchurung (W) Rhododendron) (3000-3600m) Nep: Chya Phule Gurans 8 Rhododendron campanulatum D.Don subsp.aeruginosum (Hook.f.) Syn: R. aeruginosum Hook.f. (Aeruginose Rhododendron) Nep: Nilo Pate Chimal Alpine, rocky scrub in association with R. setosum, R. thomsonii, R. fulgens, R. anthopogon, etc. 9 Rhododendron campanulatum D.Don subsp.campanulatum (Bell-lowered Rhododendron) Nep: Nilo Chimal Alpine Abies – Rhododendron forest in association with R. aeruginosum, R. fulgens, Abies densa, etc. 10 Rhododendron campanulatum Alpine Abies – Rhododendron D.Don subsp.campanulatum forest in association with R. aeruginosum, R. fulgens, Abies var. album densa, etc. World: Bhutan, Nepal, India. India: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Sikkim: Thangu Valley, Shiv Mandir – Yume Samdong, Tholung Kishong (N) Singhalila ridge, (W); Tamze area in Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Kupup (E). (4000-4500m) World: Bhutan, Nepal, India India: Kashmir, Sikkim Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang- Shiv Mandir, Tholung - Kissong, Thila – Jakthang, Lachen – Green lake (N); Dzongri Thangsing, Ghomney (W); Tamze, Changu - Kupup – Memenchu (E). (3300-4000) World: Bhutan, Nepal, India India: Kashmir, Sikkim Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang- Shiv Mandir. Status Habit / Key characters IUCN: NA Endemic of Eastern Himalaya Threatened in Sikkim IUCN: NA Sikkim: Out of danger Shrub Leaves narrowly eleptic, apex obtuse or rounded, base cuneate. Inlorescence 5-9 lowered, corolla rotate, reddish purple or deep purple IUCN : NA Endemic of Eastern Himalaya Out of Danger in Sikkim IUCN: NA Threatened in Sikkim Shrub usually epiphytic Leaves somewhat lat, small, lower surface densely lepidote, lowers camellia like, stamens 12-16. Shrub or small tree Corolla tubular-bell shaped, 5-lobed, blood red. Shrub Bell shaped lowers, indumentum on the lower leaf surface densely fulvous, with branched hairs, corolla pink to purple. IUCN : NA Shrub Threatened in Bell shaped lowers, Sikkim indumentum on the lower leaf surface densely fulvous, with branched hairs, pale rose or lilac IUCN : NA Shrub Bell shaped lowers, indumentum on the lower leaf surface densely fulvous, with branched hairs, corolla white. Sl. Botanical name No. 11 Rhododendron campylocarpum Hook.f. (Curve-fruited Rhododendron) Nep: Bango phale gurans 12 13 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 121 Habitat General distribution Sub alpine forest in association with R. thomsonii, R. campanulatum, R. cinnabarinum, R. hodgsonii, etc. World: Bhutan, India, Eastern Nepal, South East Tibet, Burma India: Sikkim, Darjeeling District of West Bengal Sikkim: Scattered in Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang valley, Lachen – Thangu valley, Tholung - Kishong (N); Tshoka – Dzongri, Ghomna (W); Kupup, Gnathang (E),(3200-4000m) World: Nepal, Bhutan, India, Tibet India: Sikkim Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachen Thangu, Tholung – Kishong (Temrong) (N), Yoksum - Dzongri (W). (3000-3800m) IUCN: NA Shrub Out of danger Leaves rounded or shallow in Sikkim heart shaped base. Flowers pale or bright yellow, often with crimson blotching at base, widely bell shaped. World: Nepal, Bhutan India, S.E.Tibet India: Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachen – Thangu (N), Tshoka - Dzongri, Singalila Ridge, Kalijhar – Phokte Dara, Chuwabhanjyang, Gurasey dara (W), Changu – Kupup, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary (E). (2700-4000m) World: India, Bhutan, Nepal India: West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim: World: Bhutan, Nepal, India. India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh. Sikkim: Widely distributed in Rachela forest, Bulbulay, Ratey Chhu, Bakthang area, Pangthang and surrounding areas, Premlakha (E); Mangan and surrounding areas, Chungthang - Lachen, Bitchu, Chungthang – Lachung, Upper Dzongu (N) and Singalila Ridge, Deonigali Dhap RF, Okhray – Hillay (W), Tendong RF, Rabongla, Damthang, Ralong (S). (1500-2500m) World: India India: Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (N); Khangchendzonga National Park, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary (W). (3000-4000m) IUCN: NA Erect Shrub Out of Danger Shiny dark green foliage, corolla more or less tubular – campanulate, red to orange coloured, erect not spreading loabes. Alpine slope with marshy, exposed situation in association with R. glaucophyllum, R. thomsonii, R. baileyi, R. lepidotum, R. niveum, Gaultheria sp. Vaccinium sp, etc. Rhododendron cinnabarinum Juniper -Rhododendron scrub in association with R. Hook.f. campanulatum, R. thomsonii, (Cinnabar Rhododendron) R. barbatum, etc. Nep: Sanu Chimal Rhododendron ciliatum Hook.f. (Ciliated Rhododendron) Nep: Junge Chimal 14 Usually epiphytic on tree Rhododendron dalhausiae Hook.f. subsp.dalhausiae var. stumps or amidst rocks dalhausiae 15 Rhododendron dalhousiae Hook.f. subsp.dalhausiae var. tashii U.C.Pradhan and S.T.Lachungpa (Lady Dalhousie’s Rhododendron) Nep: Lahare Chimal Grows in the shady areas of the temperate forest in rocks and trees in association with epiphytic orchids like Coelogyane cristata, Dendrobium sp. and other ferns and lichens. 16 Rhododendron decipiens Lacaita (Deceiving Rhododendron) Nep: Jhukaune Korlinga The hill slopes and lat lands of sub alpine forest in association with Abies densa, R. hodgsonii, etc. Status IUCN: NA Endemic of Eastern Himalaya Threatened in Sikkim IUCN: NA Habit / Key characters Small, procumbent Shrub Brightly hairy young shoots, leaves and leaf – stalks. Flowers wide funnel - shaped, pink lushed, gradually turning white. Epiphytic or sprauling shrub Corolla uniformly coloured without any red lines IUCN : NA Epiphytic or sprawling shrub Out of Danger Flowers pale yellowish-green in Sikkim fading to pale yellow outside IUCN: NA Ten stamens, widely open Threatened in corolla, eight celled ovary distinguished it from its Sikkim closest allies R. hodgsonii and R. falconeri 122 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sl. Botanical name Habitat No. Rhododendron Oak Forest in 17 Rhododendron edgeworthii Quercus lamellosa, Hook.f. (Edgeworth’s Rhododendron) R. grande, etc. Nep: Edgeworth ko Chimal 18 19 20 21 General distribution World : Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal India: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling. Sikkim: Kanchandzonga National Park (Tholung) (N), (2500m) Status Habit / Key characters IUCN: NA Shrub often epiphytic or Out of Danger scrambling on rocks. in Sikkim Leaves strongly bullate, glabrous, and shiny on the upper surface, lower surface with distinct golden scales. Flowers sweet scented and showy, white or lushed pink, style declinate. Rhododendron falconeri Temperate coniferous forest World: Bhutan, Nepal, India IUCN: NA A shrub or small tree Hook.f. subsp. falconeri in association with Tsuga India: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, West Bengal Threatened in Leaves very large, wrinkled dumosa, Abies densa, (Dr.Falconer’s and with deep set veins Sikkim: Lachung, Lachen, Tholung – Kishong (N); Sikkim Acer campbellii, Rhododendron) above, rusty woolly hairs and Bulbulay Reserve Forest, Pangolakha Wild Life Magnolia campbellii, etc. raised veins beneath. Corolla Nep: Korlinga Sanctuary (E); Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary white to cream. (Hillay, Chuwabhanjyang, Singhalila Ridge), Tshoka and adjacent area (W); Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary (S), (2700-3000m) Shady areas in alpine region Rhododendron fulgens World: Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, China IUCN: NA Shrub or small tree in association with R. Hook.f. India: Sikkim, Assam Rare in Leaves oblong oval to campanulatum, Abies densa, Sikkim: Thangu valley, Shingba Rhododendron (Brilliant Rhododendron) Sikkim broadly ovate, with thick etc. reddish brown felt beneath. Nep: Chimal Sanctuary, Tholung – Kishong (N); Yoksum Dzongri, Flowers blood-red, tubularSinghalila Ridge (W); Tamze (E) bell-shaped with chocolate (3500-5000m) brown anthers, borne in compact rounded clusters. Rhododendron glaucophyllum Occur in rocky, open slopes World: Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, India, China. IUCN: NA Shrub Rehder var.glaucophyllum in alpine forest in highly India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Endemic Leaves very aromatic. association with R. thomsonii, Sikkim: Lachen - Thangu, Shingba Rhododendron of Eastern Syn: R.glaucum Hook.f. Corolla campanulate, pinkish. R. lepidotum, R. ciliatum, Himalayas Style shorter to corolla, (Glaucous-leaved Sanctuary and Tholung-Kishong (N) Juniperus recurva, Gaultheria Rhododendron) Out of danger sharply delexed or bent. (2700-4000m) sp., etc. in Sikkim Nep: Takma Chimal Rhododendron grande Wight. Temperate mixed forest in World: Nepal, Bhutan, China, India IUCN: NA Tree association with Machilus (Large Silvery India: Darjeeling hills in West Bengal, Sikkim Threatened in Leaves very large, shining sp. Quercus lamellosa, R. Rhododendron) Sikkim deep green above, silvery Sikkim: Tholung – Thigong Butti Nay, (N); Sing arboreum, etc. white coverings beneath. Nep: Patle Korlinga alila ridge, Uttarey - Chewabhanjyang area, Hillay, Endemic Large lowers, corolla bell Ribdi, Okhrey (W); Tendong Dara (S); Bulbulay to Eastern shaped, pale pink in buds, Reserve Forest, Fambong-Lho Wild Life Sanctuary, Himalaya later white with purple Pangolakha Wild Life Sanctuary (E) blotches at the base. (2000-3000m) Sl. Botanical name No. 22 Rhododendron grifithianum Wight. (Lord Auckland’s Rhododendron) Nep: Seto Chimal Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 123 23 Rhododendron hodgsonii Hook.f. Nep: Korlinga 24 Rhododendron keysii Nuttall 25 Rhododendron lanatum Hook.f. 26 Rhododendron lepidotum Wall.ex.G.Don. (Scaly Rhododendron) Nep: Bhale sunpate Habitat General distribution In moist temperate forests World: Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal mixed with Magnolias, other India: Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya tree rhododendrons, oaks, etc. Sikkim: Gaikhurey - Bakhim, Hillay, Ribdi, Okhrey, Khechuperi, Chewabanjhyang (W), Lachung valley (N); Fambong-Lho Wild Life Sanctuary (E), (18003200m) The hill slopes and lat lands World: India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet of temperate to sub alpine India: Sikkim, Darjeeling district of West Bengal, region in continuous patches in Assam, Meghalaya association with Abies densa, Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachen R. decipiens, R. cinnabarinum, – Geern Lake, Yumthang valley, Tholung – Kissong Larix grifithiana, etc. (N); Tshoka – Dzongri, Singhalila Ridge (W) Maenam Wild Life Sanctuary (S); Pangolakha Wild Life Sanctuary (E), (3000-4000m) Common in mixed and conifer World: India, Bhutan, China forest and in thickets. Rarely India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh epiphytic Distribution in Sikkim is reported (Sastry & Hajra, 2010) Status IUCN: NA Habit / Key characters Shrubs or small tree Inlorescence 5-30 lowered, calyx usually small or well developed IUCN: NA Shrub or small tree Out of Danger Leaves large, leathery. in Sikkim Flowers pale pink to magenta pink in compact cluster of 1520, stamens usually 16. IUCN: NA Straggling shrub Inlorescence mostly lateral, corolla up to 2 cm, narrowly tubular, scales broadly rimmed In Abies forest, amidst World: India, Bhutan, China IUCN: NA Bushy shrub Rhododendrons and bamboo, India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Leaves narrowly elliptic, on cliffs obovate to oblong-obovate, Sikkim: Yoksum- Dzongri, West Sikkim thick and leathery in texture, (3000-4500m) upper surface with reddish brown indumentums which wears off on maturity, lower surface with crisped, thick, grey-fawn, pink brown, or rust coloured indumentums; corolla cream to sulphur yellow, red or brown spotted. Open rocky sub-Alpine to World: Pakistan, Bhutan, Tibet, India, Nepal, South IUCN:NA Terrestrial Shrub Alpine slope in continuous West China, Myanmar. Out of Danger Young branches densely patches in association with R. India: Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal in Sikkim lepidote, inlorescence ciliatum, Juniperus recurva, R. Pradesh, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, usually 2-3 lowered, corolla anthopogon, etc. Meghalaya. rotate-campanulate, white, yellow, pink, and densely Sikkim: Widely distributed in Lachung – Yumthang, scaly outside. Lachen – Thangu, Lachen – Green Lake, Tholung Kishong (N); Tshoka – Dzongri – Samiti Lake, Dzongri – HMI Base Camp, Chuwabhanjyang area, Singhalila Ridge (W); Tshangu valley, Nathula, Kupup, Gnathang, Pangolakha Wild Life Sanctuary, Tamze MPCA (E), (2500-5000m) 124 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sl. Botanical name No. 27 Rhododendron leptocarpum Nuttall ex C.B.Clarke (Synonym: R.micromeres) 28 29 Rhododendron lindleyi T.Moore Syn: R. bhotanicum C.B.Clarke (Dr. Lindley’s Rhododendron) Nep: Sanu Lahare Chimal Rhododendron maddenii Hook.f. subsp.maddenii (Major Madden’s Rhododendron) Nep: Major Madden ko Chimal Habitat Epiphytic on other larger Rhododendrons and conifers or on mossy rock boulders General distribution World: India, Bhutan, Myanmar, China India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Distribution reported in Sikkim (Flora of China) (2400-4300m) World: India, China, Bhutan, Nepal As an epiphyte in temperate broad leaved mixed forest, oak India: Sikkim, W.Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, Rhododendron forest. Manipur Sikkim: Tholung area (N); Sachen area, between Bakhim and Tshoka (W), (2000-3000m) On rocky, open mountains, sometimes trailing on cliffs and steep slopes, rarely epiphytic and found in association with Lyonia ovalifolia, Pandanus furcatos, R.arboreum, R.dalhausiae etc along river sides Forest margins, thickets, scrub, open pastures, slopes, valleys, cliffs, rocks, rarely swamps Habit / Key characters IUCN: NA Shrub Pedicels 2.5-5cm long, slender, lexuous; calyx lobes relexed at least in fruit; corolla 0.9-1.3 cm; young stems and leaf margins glabrous IUCN: NA Epiphytic shrub Out of Danger White lowers with hairy in Sikkim calyx, new shoots non bristly Endemic to Eastern Himalaya World: Bhutan, India, S.E. Tibet, Upper Burma. India: Sikkim and Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim: Chungthang - Tsho Pembo, Upper Dzongu (N), (700-2000m) IUCN: NA Shrub Endangered in Branches often sprawling or Sikkim straggling. Leaves less than 6 cm broad. Flowers sweet scented, stamens many (1725), ovary 8-12 celled. World: India, NE Myanmar, Nepal India: Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim: Recently recorded in Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, North, (3000-4300m) IUCN: NA 30 Rhododendron mekongense var.mekongense 31 Rhododendron nivale Hook.f. Open, Rocky, high alpine slopes with perpetual snow (Snow Rhododendron) in association with R. Nep: Hiun Gurans anthopogon, R. setosum, Juniperus recurva, etc. World: Nepal, India, Bhutan, Tibet India: Sikkim Sikkim: Yumey Samdong, Lhonak valley (N) (4500-5500m) 32 Rhododendron niveum Hook.f. (Snow Leaved Rhododendron) Nep: Hiun – Pate Gurans World: Bhutan, Southern Tibet, India, China. India: Native to North East India. Sikkim: Localised distribution in Yakchey – Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Upper Dzongu (Temrong and Thijom) (N), (3000-3600m) Occur in the open, rocky slope in the sub alpine region in association with Salix sp., Juniperus recurva, R. lepidotum, R. ciliatum, etc. Status Shrub Semi evergreen, 1-2m tall. Branchlets setose, leaf blade leathery, obovate or oblanceolate to obovateelliptic, petiole sparsely scaly with long setose. IUCN: NA Shrub Threatened in Prostrate cushion-like shrub, Sikkim branchlets densely scaly. Inlorescence 1-2 lowered, corolla purplish to lilac or violet coloured. IUCN: NA Bushy shrub or small tree Endemic to Branch lets densely white Indo Burma tomentose. Inlorescence 15hotspot 20 lowered, dense. Corolla Endangered in tubular-campanulate, deep Sikkim, Rare magenta to deep lilac with darker nectar pouches. in Bhutan Sl. Botanical name No. 33 Rhododendron pendulum Hook.f. (Pendulous Rhododendron) Nep: Jhundinae Chimal Habitat General distribution Status Habit / Key characters Abies-Rhododendron forest World: Nepal, India, Bhutan, Tibet, China. IUCN: NA as an epiphyte and pendulous India: Sikkim Rare in from sheltered trees and rocks Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachen, Sikkim Tholung – Kishong (N), Tshoka – Dzongri (W), (3300-4000m) Epiphytic or straggling shrub Young shoots covered with densely woolly indumentum. Inlorescence 2-3 lowered, pedicels densely tomentose. Corolla openly funnelcampanulate, white or white lushed with pink or cream, stamens 10. Open alpine, avalanche slopes, World: Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Burma, China IUCN: NA Dwarf, prostrate shrublet in association with other alpine India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Endangered in Leaves bright, bluish green, lowers elliptic, scaley and glaucus Sikkim: Valleys of Zemu, Lhonak, Berum and Lava, Sikkim beneath; stems and roots Chachuzuk near Yumthang, Thangu and above (N), embedded in the moss. (3800-4500m) Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 125 34 Rhododendron pumilum Hook.f. (Dwarf Rhododendron) Nep: Purke Gurans 35 Rhododendron setosum D.Don (Bristly Rhododendron) Nep: Tsallu Gurans Open, rocky alpine slopes in association with R. anthopogon, R. nivale, R. lepidotum, Juniperus recurva, etc. World: Nepal, India, Tibet, Bhutan IUCN: NA India: Sikkim, Sikkim: Yumthang valley, Yumey Samdong, Threatened in Kishong La, Thangu valley (N); Tamze (E); Dzongri, Sikkim Thangsing – Samiti lake (W). (3500-5500m) 36 Rhododendron sikkimense U.C.Pradhan & S.T.Lachungpa Sikkimese Rhododendron Nep: Sikkimae gurans Sikkim: Phune, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Tholung-Kishong (N), (3700-4000m) 37 Rhododendron thomsonii Hook.f. (Dr. Thomson’s Rhododendron) Nep: Dr. Thomson ko Gurans Sub Alpine region in open, exposed areas having sandy soil in association with Abies densa, R. thomsonii, R. baileyi, R. campanulatum, R. barbatum and R. campylocarpum, etc. Forms mixed shrubberies with other Rhododendrons in open slopes of sub alpine scrub to alpine meadows in association with Abies densa, R. barbatum, R. campanulatum, etc. World: Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal, India. India: Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Darjeeling District of West Bengal. Sikkim: Widely distributed in Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Tholung - Kishong (N); Tshoka - Dzongri, Singhalila range, Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary (W); Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary (E), (2900-4000m) Shrub Branchlets densely clothed with stiff bristly hairs and scales. Leaf margins hairy. Inlorescence 1-6 lowered, rarely upto 8 lowered. Corolla reddish or crimson purple, stamens 10. IUCN : NA Leaves oblong ovate to elliptic, leathery with thin Endemic to layers of matty, silvery Sikkim Endangered in to yellowish brown indumentums on the lower Sikkim surface. Flowers blood red, calyx cup shaped. IUCN : NA Shrub or small tree Vulnerable in Bark peeling, smooth, usually Sikkim of mixed colours. Leaves thick and learhery, glabrous, orbicular, pvate to broadly elliptic with rounded apex. Inlorescence 3-10 lowered. Corolla leshy, light pink, deep pink, red upto deep blood red. 126 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sl. Botanical name No. 38 Rhododendron trilorum Hook.f. (Three lowered Rhododendron) Nep: Pahenle Gurans Habitat General distribution Scattered in the rocky sub Alpine slopes in association with R. lepidotum, R. thomsonii, R. baileyi, Juniperus recurva, etc. World: Nepal, Bhutan, India, Burma, Tibet India: Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim: Lachung valley, (2100-4000m) 39 Rhododendron vaccinioides Hook.f. (Vaccinum like Rhododendron) Nep: Khiaune pate Gurans Rarely available hanging around Moist rocks and shade trees of hot humid and cold temperate forest in association with Vaccinium obovatum, Agapetes serpens, etc. World: Nepal, India, Bhutan, Tibet, Burma, China. India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling district of west Bengal. Sikkim: Lachung valley, Tholung Kishong (N); Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary (E). 40 Rhododendron virgatum Hook.f. (Twiggy Rhododendron) Nep: Hanginae Gurans Freshly exposed steep slopes in temperate to subalpine areas. World: Tibet, China, India India: Sikkim Sikkim: Chungthang, Lachen, Lachung (2500-3300m) 41 Rhododendron wallichii Hook.f. Syn: R. campanulatum Hook.f.var.wallichii (Hook.f.) C.B. Clarke (Dr. Wallich’s Rhododendron) Nep: Wallich ko Chimal In mixed forest and Rhododendron scrub in sub-alpine to alpine areas in association with R. campanulatum World: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China India: Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang valley (N), (3000-4000m) 42 Rhododendron wightii Hook.f. Alpine slopes and lat lands (Dr. Wight’s Rhododendron) forming dense thickets Nep: Dr. White ko Gurans in association with R. campanulatum, Abies densa, R. hodgsonii, etc. World: Nepal, Bhutan, Burma China, Tibet India: North East India Sikkim: Bakhim – Dzongri, Barsey Rhododendron sanctuary (W); Tholung Kishong, Yumthang valley (N), (3200-4500) Status Habit / Key characters IUCN: NA Shrub Threatened in Bark peeling, smooth, reddish Sikkim brown. Leaves aeromatic, oblong lanceolate to elliptic. Inlorescence terminal, 2-4 lowered, corolla widely opened funnel shaped, pale or lemon yellow, spotted with red or pink. IUCN: NA Epiphytic, straggling shrub. Out of Danger Branchlets densely scabrid, in Sikkim many leaved. Inlorescence 1-2 rarely 3 lowered, terminal. Corolla thick, white to lilac pink, lepidote outside. IUCN: NA Erect gregarious shrub Out of Danger Axillary lowered in Sikkim rhododendron, 1-2 lowered, lowers white to light pale rose, the pedicels hidden by the persistent and peculiarly imbricating bracts, calyx 5 lobed, short. IUCN: NA Bushy shrub or small tree Endemic Bark pinkish brown to grey, to Eastern rough on ageing. Leaves Himalaya leathery with a patchy layer Endangered in of black to brown, tufted hairy indumentum. Corolla Sikkim funnel–campanulate, blue mauve or rosy-purple fading to white. IUCN: Shrub or small tree. Vulnerable Branchlets thick. Leaf and Status not lower buds sticky. Leaves evaluated till broadly elliptic to ovovate, date lower surface with a dense rusty brown indumentum Endemic consisting of ramiform to Eastern hairs. Inlorescence 10 to Himalayas 20 lowered, corolla white, cream to lemon-yellow with light brown or purple lecks. Annexure VI Site characteristics of the sampling plots of Rhododendron niveum in Yakchey - Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, North Sikkim Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 127 Site code YS1 YS2 YS3 YS4 YS5 YS6 YS7 YS8 YS9 YS10 YS11 YS12 YS13 YS14 YS15 YS16 YS17 YS18 YS19 YS20 YS21 YS22 YS23 YS24 YS25 Altitude (m asl) 3048 3083 3099 3109 3102 3148 3136 3129 3142 3157 3183 3191 3288 3193 3223 3248 3202 3204 3225 3242 3208 3231 3225 3268 3317 Slope (0) Micro habitat Disturbance 88°44’41.0” 88°44’41.0” 88°44’44.4” 88°44’41.4” 88°44’42.3” 88°44’40.4” 88°44’38.4” 88°44’39.2” 88°44’37.1” 88°44’35.5” 88°44’34.3” 88°44’34.0” 88°44’39.0” 88°44’31.0” 88°44’36.0” 88°44’29.0” 88°44’32.0” 88°44’35.0” 88°44’33.0” 88°44’3.06” 88°44’47.0” 88°44’52.0” 88°44’21.0” 88°44’25.0” 88°44’09.0” Slope Aspect E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E 20 35 50 20 30 20 40 20 40 50 20 35 40 30 40 50 55 60 20 18 15 20 20 18 25 Road clearings, Grazing Road clearings nil cut stumps nil Fuel wood collections Road clearings, bouldery Cut stumps, bouldery, Bouldery, road clearings nil Road clearings, cut stump Road clearings Road clearings Bouldery Dry Dry Dry, bouldery Road clearings Road clearings Bouldery Bouldery, dry Road clearings Road clearings Road clearings Road clearings 27°44’34.9” 88°44’09.4” E 30 3340 3359 3380 3381 27°44’48.5” 27°43’57.0” 27°44’21.0” 27°44’60.0.” 88°44’03.9” 88°44’27.0” 88°44’17.0” 88°43’59.0” E E E E 20 20 25 22 Mosses and grass covered Mosses and grass covered Mosses and grass covered Rocky, moss covered Open, moist Open, dry Dry,open slope Rocky, moss covered Mosses and grass covered Rocky slope Grass covered Grass and moss covered Rocky Rocky Grass covered Rocky Dry, shrubbery Moist Shrubbery Open, sandy soil Open, sandy Rocky, shrubbery Rocky, shrubbery Rocky, shrubbery Rocky, dry Rocky, shrubbery, grass covered Open, grass covered Rocky Rocky Rocky YS26 Boulders, Road clearings Road clearings Road clearings Road clearings 7.5 2.5 4 2.5 YS31 3415 27°45’15.0” 88°43’43.0” E 42 Rocky Road clearings 3 YS32 3406 27°45’19.0” 88°43’30.0” E 30 Rocky, moss covered Road clearings 4.5 Lat (N) Long (E) 27°43’27.0” 27°43’31.0” 27°43’32.1” 27°43’27.0” 27°43’35.6” 27°43’29.3” 27°43’28.7” 27°43’30.8” 27°43’28.7” 27 °43’28.8” 27°43’31.9” 27°43’32.0” 27°43’29.0” 27°43’48.0” 27°43’44.0” 27°43’33.0” 27°43’31.0” 27°43”39.0” 27°43’26.0” 27°43’47.7.0” 27°43’30.0” 27°43’27.0” 27°43’45.0” 27°43’42.0” 27°44’27.0” 3316 YS27 YS28 YS29 YS30 Humus Depth (cm) 8 7.5 8.5 6 9 6 6 7.5 5 5.5 5 5.5 4 4.5 5.5 4 5 7 5.5 2.5 2.5 4 3 3.5 2.5 Road clearings, Avalanche 7.5 publications under Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project 128 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii A Note on Rhododendron mekongense – a New Species Record from Sikkim Himalaya, India Bharat Kumar Pradhan1, Sabita Dahal1, Johan Nilson2, and Dechen Lachungpa1 1 Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project Forests, Environment and Wildlife Management Department, Government of Sikkim Forest Secretariat Building, Deorali 737101, East Sikkim, India 2 Gothenburg Botanical Garden Carl Skottsbergs Gata, 22A, Gothenburg 41319, Sweden I ntroduction Rhododendron has the greatest number of species in the family Ericaceae. he highest rhododendron diversity is found in the Northern Hemisphere along the southern Himalayas east into SW China, i.e., in Nepal, Bhutan, NE India, NE Burma, southeast Tibet, W Szechuan and NW Yunan. he total number of Rhododendron species worldwide is estimated to be approximately 1200 (Paul et al. 2005); China has the highest number of species (571) in the world, of which about 409 are endemic (www. eFloras.org). India has in total 121 taxa (73 species, 22 subspecies, and 25 varieties) and three natural hybrids, with 98% (117 taxa) of these distributed in north-east India (Mao 2010). he eastern Indian Himalayan states have the most taxa: Arunachal Pradesh (106) has the highest number of taxa followed by Sikkim (41), Manipur and Nagaland (ten), Mizoram (four) and Meghalaya (three) (Mao 2010), and the western Himalayas has seven rhododendron species including the recently recognised R. rawatii (Rai and Adhikari 2012). Bharat Kumar Pradhan Sikkim and its Rhododendrons Sikkim is well known for its rhododendron diversity and is an explorer’s paradise. Historically, Sikkim rhododendrons were irst rewcognised when J.D. Hooker, during his two years of extensive travel (1848-49) to Sikkim Himalaya, documented 45 rhododendron species (Sikkim and Darjeeling States together), of which 34 were new species (Hooker 1849). He was the irst to introduce many Sikkim rhododendron species to European countries during the middle of the 19th century. Pradhan and Lachungpa (1990) provided key ield characters for all the known rhododendron species from Sikkim and recently, Sastry and Hajra (2010) also described most of the species found in Sikkim. Sikkim is a part of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot and a large area in Sikkim is included in a protected area network (PAN), with seven Sanctuaries and one National Park covering approximately 31% of its total geographical area (7096 km2; 2740 mi2) (Pradhan et al. 2013). Rhododendrons are found in all the protected areas, as they are uniformly distributed throughout Sikkim except in its southern district, which has only a few rhododendron species. Rhododendrons have been given special priority for conservation by the Government of Sikkim and it is the only place in the whole world to have two designated Sanctuaries exclusively for their in situ conservation, i.e., the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (43 km2; 16.6 mi2) and the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary (104 km2; 40.2 mi2) in in the northern and western parts of Sikkim, respectively. R. niveum has acquired special conservation measure as this species has been declared as the State Tree of Sikkim. Rhododendrons in Sikkim include 37 species, eleven subspecies, seven varieties and two natural hybrids, i.e., R. decipens (R. hodgsonii × R. falconeri) and R. × sikkimense (R. thomsonii subsp. thomsonii × R. arboreum) (Table 1). R. argipeplum and R. keysii var. unicolor are included in the list of Sikkim (www.eFloras.org; Mao 2010; Sastry and Hajra 2010), but there is no documented collection of these species from any part of Sikkim to date. However, B.K. Pradhan believes he has seen R. argipeplum in the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in northern Sikkim. R. dalhousie var. tashii is the only taxa that is endemic to Sikkim; earlier, R. × sikkimense was also considered to be endemic to the state but its recording from Arunachal Pradesh means its now simply endemic to north-east India. Pradhan and Lachungpa (1990) supported Hooker’s recognition of R. aeruginosum but Chamberlain et al. (1996) consider it a subspecies of R. campanulatum. × R. mekongense – New Species Record from Sikkim During our recent ield trip (May– June 2014) on a rapid biodiversity survey under Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), assisted by Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project in Lachung Valley (Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (SRS), Yumthang Valley up 76 SPRING 2015 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 129 A B C D Fig. 1. R. mekongense var. mekongense: A. Habitat. Photo by Johan Nilson. B. Habitat. Photo by Sabita Dahal. C. Inlorescence. Photo by Sabita Dahal. D. Winter bud. Photo by Johan Nilson. to Shiv Mandir) in northern Sikkim, we came across a rhododendron species inside the SRS (about 3300 m elevation) which was completely diferent from other species encountered and described earlier from Sikkim. A few individuals of a small shrub, barely exceeding one m (three feet) in height with yellow lowers, were observed growing with other rhododendron species along the roadside. Plants were found in lower bud formation or lowering phenophase. At irst, we considered it to be R. trilorum, but it had a setose (hairy) pedicel and petiole. he inlorescence was 3-4 lowers but the corolla was campanulate as compared to funnelform-campanulate in the latter species, and the leaf shape and size were diferent. A feature comparison of this plant with R. trilorum, based on the literature, is in Table 2. We were sure that the species was new to Sikkim and because 90% of the rhododendron species from Sikkim are also found in Arunachal Pradesh, we concentrated our literature review to identify it to Arunachal Pradesh and the other north-eastern states. R. mekongense’s characters closely resembled with our species. here was little about this species in any scientiic publications except in a few species lists (Mao et al 2002, Paul et al. 2005, Mao 2010, Seker and Srivastava 2010). However, Sastry and Hajra (2010) noted the rare occurrence of R. mekongense var. rubrolineatum in Arunachal Pradesh. Nevertheless, from the little published information available we identiied our new species as R. mekongense var. mekongense Franchet (Fig. 1). he irst written record about R. mekongense was by Franchet (1898); however, R.P. Soulie was the irst person to record the species from the Mekong Valley in China in 28 June 1895 http://www.biodiversitylibrary. org/item/18758#page/281/mode/1up). It is in the subgenus Rhododendron, section Rhododendron and subsection Trichoclada. he species is distributed along forest margins, thickets, scrub, open pastures, clifs, valleys, rocks between 3000–4300 m elevation. It has since been found in China (S Tibet, NW Yunan), India (Arunachal Pradesh), NE Myanmar and Nepal. Of the three recognised varieties of R. mekongense, var. longipilosum is found in NE Myanmar, var. rubrolineatum in China (S Tibet, NW Yunnan) and India (Arunachal Pradesh); and var. mekongense in China (S Tibet, NW Yunnan), NE Myanmar and Nepal. In Sikkim, the species was observed to be growing in small scattered patches on rocky, highly disturbed habitat on an open slope in association with JOURNAL AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY 77 130 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Table 1. Sikkim Rhododendrons. Species R. anthopogon subsp. anthopogon R. arboreum subsp. arboreum R. arboreum subsp. cinnamomeum var. cinnamomeum R. arboreum subsp. cinnamomeum var. roseum R. argipeplum R. baileyi R. barbatum R. camelliilorum R. campanuatum subsp. aeruginosum R. campanulatum subsp. campanulatum R. campylocarpum subsp. campylocarpum R. ciliatum R. cinnabarinum subsp. cinnabarinum R. dalhousiae subsp. dalhousiae var. dalhousiae R. dalhousiae subsp. dalhousiae var. tashii R. decipiens R. edgeworthii R. falconeri subsp. falconeri R. fulgens R. glaucophyllum var. glaucophyllum R. grande R. grifithianum R. hodgsonii R. keysii R. lanatum R. lepidotum Distribution India World Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal Kashmir to Sikkim Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Bhutan, China Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Kashmir to Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim (Endemic) Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, China Bhutan, China Bhutan, Nepal, China R. leptocarpum R. lindleyi R. maddenii subsp. maddenii R. nivale subsp. nivale R. niveum R. pendulum R. pumilum Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Throughout the Himalayas from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh R. setosum R. sikkimense R. thomsosnii subsp. thomsonii R. trilorum var. trilorum Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh R. vaccinioides Sikkim, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh R. virgatum R. wallichii R. wightii Bhutan, Nepal Nepal Bhutan, Nepal Bhutan Bhutan, Nepal Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal, China ---Bhutan, Myanmar, China Bhutan, Nepal Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, Nepal Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan, China Bhutan, China Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China Bhutan, Myanmar, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan Bhutan, Nepal, China Bhutan Bhutan, Nepal, China Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China Bhutan, China ----Bhutan, Nepal, China Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar Bhutan, China Bhutan, Nepal, China Myanmar, China 78 SPRING 2015 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 131 Table 2. Comparison of R. mekongense var. mekongense with R. trilorum var. trilorum following Flora of China (www.eFloras.org) and Sastry and Hajra (2010). Character R. mekongense var. mekongense R. trilorum subsp. trilorum Habitat Shrub, deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen, 1–2 m tall; branchlets setose scaly Shrubs or rarely small trees, evergreen or semi-evergreen, 1–4 m tall; young shoots Elevation Subalpine – alpine (3300 – 4300 m) Temperate – subalpine (2500 – 3700 m) Leaf Blade leathery, obovate or oblanceolate to obovate-elliptic, 2.5–5(–6.5) × 0.8–2(–2.7) cm; base cuneate; margin usually setose; apex rounded, mucronate; adaxially glabrous, abaxial surface slightly glaucous, scales 1–4 × their own diameter apart, unequal, pale or dark brown; midrib usually sparsely setose Blade ovate, oblong, ovate-lanceolate, or oblong-lanceolate, 2.5–6.5 × 1.5–2.5 cm; base rounded or cordate; apex acuminate, acute or obtuse, apiculate; abaxial surface gray white or pale green, scales to 1 × their own diameter apart, all similar, ± rimless; adaxial surface without scales Petiole 1–2(–5) mm, sparsely scaly, long-setose 4-9 mm, scaly Inlorescence Terminal, 3–4 lowered. Terminal, 2–4 lowered Pedicel 1–2.5 cm, scaly, usually sparsely long-setose 0.6–1.6 cm, erect, scaly Calyx Lobes rounded, ovate, oblong to lanceolate, persistent in fruit, scaly, glabrous Lobes rounded, ovate or triangular, 0.5–1 mm, densely scaly Corolla Broadly campanulate, yellow, 1.5–2(–2.3) cm inside with brown spots on upper side, lobes 5 Broadly funnelform-campanulate, pale yellow, 2–3.3 cm inside with brown spots on the upper surface, outer surface scaly, pubescent or without hairs, lobes 5 Stamens 10; unequal, ilaments villous or pubescent towards base 10; unequal, longer than corolla, ilaments villous Ovary Scaly 5-locular, densely scaly Style Thick, sharply bent Long, glabrous Capsule Cylindric, 7–11 mm, densely scaly Cylindric, 7–12 mm Flowering May - June May - June Fruiting July - August July - August JOURNAL AMERICAN RHODODENDRON SOCIETY 79 132 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii other rhododendron species such as R. campylocarpum, R. thomsonii, R. campanulatum, and R. lepidotum. In 2014, it was discovered that the same species had been recorded earlier by Johan Nilson in May 2009 inside the same Sanctuary. hrough his photographs, it was determineded that he had recorded the species in a diferent location, about 500 m (1640 ft) away from our location, again in an open, rocky slope along a stream, and in association with shrub species such as R. thomsonii, R. lepidotum, Viburnum nervosum, Salix spp.; herbs such as Meconopsis paniculata, Rheum acuminatum, Polygonum spp., Aster spp., and ferns; with climbers like Clematis montana also prevalent in the area. Existing hreats to Rhododendrons, with Special Reference to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary Rhododendrons are important aesthetically, economically, medicinally and culturally in the Himalayas, but they are facing tremendous threats due to both natural and anthropogenic factors. Avalanches and lash loods due to heavy snowfalls and torrential rains are common natural events in the SRS. As an example, the areas were R. mekongense occur are afected by avalanches bringing down boulders and by recent lash loods. he problem was augmented after the September 2011 earthquake, which has highly disturbed the fragile alpine and subalpine ecosystems in north Sikkim. Rhododendrons are a highly preferred fuel wood by the local inhabitants and the migrant labourers in high altitude areas in north Sikkim because it burns well even when green and wet. In addition, local people from in and around Sikkim visit the Yumthang Valley, situated at one end of the SRS, to enjoy the hot springs and during their stay, many rampantly cut down rhododendrons and other species for ire wood. he uncontrolled, indiscriminate and unsustainable harvesting for ire wood has resulted in some rhododendron species being listed as rare, threatened and endangered (Menon et al. 2012) throughout the Himalayas. North Sikkim is a major tourist destination and every year this directly impacts rhododendrons, as they are also collected by the local hoteliers for use in cooking, heating, boiling water, etc., for visitors. Species with more speciic habitat requirement may also be impacted if their habitat is disturbed by any means. Summary he discovery of a new species, R. mekongense var. mekongense, from Sikkim suggests that extensive exploration in the unexplored areas of Sikkim may result in more species of rhododendrons and other plants being identiied. While earlier explorers have found many species of rhododendrons through limited ield suveys, it has recently become easier to identify suggested locations of new populations of all species by using both GIS and habitat niche modelling before undertaking ield studies. With the discovery of R. mekongense var. mekongense, Sikkim now has 38 species, eleven subspecies, eight varieties and two natural hybrids of rhododendrons. Nonetheless, the newly discovered populations of R. mekongense var. mekongense are very limited in the area and immediate conservation measures are suggested. We declare this species to be critically rare until a new gregarious population is discovered somewhere else in Sikkim. Acknowledgements We would like to thank he Honourable Forest Minister, Shri Tshering Wangdi Lepcha, for his consistent support. We also would like to thank Dr. homas Chandy (Principal Secretary cum Principal Chief Conservator of Forest cum Project Director, SBFP) and Shri SBS Bhadauria (former Addl. Principal Chief Conservator of Forest cum Project Director, SBFP) for guidance and providing time to time suggestions. he assistance provided by Suraj, Dorjee and Meena in the ield are highly acknowledged. References Chamberlain, D.F., R. Hyam, G. Argent, G. Fairweather, and K.S. Walter. 1996. he genus Rhododendron: its classiication and synonymy. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh, 181 pp. Franchet, A. 1898. Plantarum Sinensium Ecloge Secunda. J. Botanique 12 (17-18): 253-264. Hooker, J.D. 1849. he Rhododendrons of Sikkim – Himalaya. Reeve & Co., New York. Mao, A.A. 2010. he genus Rhododendron in north-east India. Botanica Orientalis – J. Plant Sci. 7: 26-34. Menon, S, M.L. Khan, A. Paul, and A.T. Peterson. 2012. Rhododendron species in the Indian Eastern Himalaya: new approaches to understanding rare plant species distribution. J. Amer. Rhododendron Soc. 66: 78-84. Paul, A., M.L. Khan, A. Arunachalam and K. Arunachalam K. 2005. Biodiversity and conservation of rhododendrons in Arunachal Pradesh in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Current Science 89(4): 623-634. Paul, A, M.L. Khan, A.K. Das and P.K. Dutta. 2010. Diversity and distribution of rhododendrons in Arunachal Himalaya, India. Journal of American R. Society 64(4): 200-205. Pradhan, U.C. and S.T. Lachungpa. 1990. Sikkim Himalayan Rhododendons. Primulaceae Books, Kalimpong, West Bengal, India. Rai, I.D., and B.S. Adhikari. 2012. Rhododendron rawatii (Ericaceae), a new species from the Western Himalaya. Phytotaxa 71:10-16. Sastry, A.R.K., and P.K. Hajra. 2010. Rhododendrons in India: Floral and Foliar splendour of the Himalayan lora. BS Publications, Hyderabad, India. Seker, K.C., and S.K. Srivastava. 2010. Rhododendrons in the Indian Himalayan region: diversity and conservation. Amer. J. Plant Sci. 1: 131-137. 80 SPRING 2015 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 133 134 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 135 136 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 137 138 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 139 140 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 141 11 A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim Bharat Kumar Pradhan1, Kamal Poudyal1, SBS Bhadauria2, Suraj Subba3 and Dorjee Chewang4 Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project, Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management Department, Government of Sikkim, Deorali 737101, Gangtok, Sikkim (India) Dedication This article is dedicated to the Late Katherine Sangey Lepcha, Divisional Forest Officer (Biodiversity Conservation), Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP), Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management Department (FEWMD), Government of Sikkim, who was our mentor during her tenure with us. R hododendrons are noted for many clusters of beautiful coloured flowers. They are widely hybridized for their showy flowers. There are 28,000 hybrids of rhododendrons (Leslie, 2004) compared to approximately 1,000 natural rhododendron species globally. Rhododendrons belong to the Ericaceae family and the earliest fossil record from Alaska (Hollick & Smith, 1936) reveals that rhododendrons have been in existence for at least 50 million years. Irving & Hebda (1993) speculated that “rhododendrons probably did not originate in the region where they are now most abundant and most diverse because these regions did not exist 50 million years ago”. However, the earliest record of rhododendrons comes from the incident where Xenophon’s soldiers were overcome by nausea and vomiting after consuming honey made from the poisonous nectar of the yellow flowered Pontic Azalea and Rhododendron luteum, when they had camped in the Armenian hills inland from Trebizond on the Black Sea coast of Turkey while retreating from Babylon in 401 B.C. (www. rhodo.citymax.com/page/page/627471.htm). Rhododendrons have global distribution, but are completely absent from South America and Africa. They are mostly distributed in Asia: China alone harbours 571 species of rhododendrons, of which 409 species are endemic to 142 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 12 The Rhododendron China (www.efloras.org). In Indian context, out of 72 rhododendron species reported, the highest number of species (61 species) is present in Arunachal Pradesh (Mao et al., 2001), and Sikkim harbour 36 species (Pradhan & Lachungpa, 1990). Sikkim, being an explorer’s paradise, famous naturalists and explorers like Sir J.D.Hooker and Dr. A.Campbell had explored Sikkim during 1849, and their work forms the baseline literature even today. Sir J.D. Hooker had given an account of 43 rhododendron species from Sikkim Himalaya including Darjeeling Hills (Hooker, 1849). Being a part of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, and due to its unique topography, Sikkim is very rich in biodiversity. In order to conserve this, Sikkim has been brought under a network of protected areas (1 Biosphere Reserve and 6 Sanctuaries) covering around 31% of the total geographical area (7,096 sq. km.). Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (BR), the only biosphere reserve in Sikkim and the highest biosphere reserve in India, covers 41.31% (core zone or Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP): 1,784 sq. km., buffer zone: 835.92 sq. km., transition zone: 311.80 sq. km.) of the total geographical area of Sikkim. The altitude of Khangchendzonga BR ranges from 1,220 m to 8,586 m asl (Mt Khangchendzonga), and lies between 27030’– 27055’N longitude and 88002’– 88037’E latitude. It is home to several endangered, threatened, rare and endemic species of plants and animals and is one of the richest reservoirs of rhododendrons (Badola & Pradhan, 2010a) and harbours over 20 species of rhododendrons, including the state tree of Sikkim, Rhododendron niveum, (Badola & Pradhan, 2010a) and Rhododendron maddenii, a species of high conservation concern (Badola & Pradhan, 2010b). The Khangchendzonga BR harbours some of the endangered fauna like Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), Snow Leopard (Uncia uncia), Musk deer (Moschus sp.), Blue Sheep (Pseudois nayaur), etc., and pheasants such as Blood Pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus), Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) and Satyr Tragopan (Tragopan satyra). A survey was conducted along Yuksom–Dzongri–Goeche La trekking trail (ca. 40 km) within Khangchendzonga BR (west Sikkim, India) during April–May, 2013. This trek has gained its popularity not only amongst the locals, but thousands of foreign visitors come to Sikkim to experience this fascinating trek.Yuksom (1,780 m asl), the last human inhabited area and an entry point to the particular trek is a beautiful rural settlement (comprising 12 villages) and is situated in the midst of lower wet temperate forest. The area is inhabited by a mixed community including Bhutia, Lepcha, Limboo and Nepali, signifying the perfect example of ‘unity in diversity’. Besides, numerous plainsmen (especially Biharis) have also settled at Yuksom and are running restaurants and other grocery shops.Yuksom, being the first capital of Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 143 A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim 13 KAMAl PoudyAl Above Scrubs of Rhododendron lepidotum. Below The pink loret of Rhododendron falconerii. BhARAT K. PRAdhAN 144 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 14 The Rhododendron KAMAl PoudyAl Above View of Mount Pandim from Phedang. Below Rhododendron barbatum along trekking trail. BhARAT K. PRAdhAN Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 145 A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim 15 Sikkim, has historic significance too. Some of the important places of interest in Yuksom include the coronation throne of first King or Chogyal of Sikkim, (which have been preserved since more than 350 years); Dubdi monastery (the oldest monastery in Sikkim, founded in 1701 AD by Gyalwa Lhatsun Namkha Jigmee or Lhatsun Chenpo); Karthok Lake, etc.Yuksom, especially bazaar area (market), is full of lodges and restaurants for the tourists, and the local youths make substantial income from the tourism industry by working as part time or full time guides/porters/cooks, etc. This trekking trail starts from Yuksom and ends right at the base of Mt Khangchendzonga (ca. 5,000 m asl), the third highest peak in the world, which passes through Sachen, Bakhim, Tshoka, Phedang, Dzongri, Kokchurung, Thangsing, Lamuney, and Samiti Lake. Variability in species compositions with altitude can be clearly observed in this particular trek. Within Khangchendzonga BR, there exist different types of forest systems, such as wet temperate broad-leaved forest, temperate conifer forest, sub-alpine forest, alpine scrubs and alpine grasslands. The wet temperate broad-leaved forest, extending up to 2,800 m asl, comprises of evergreen and medium-sized trees, rarely exceeding 24 m in height. Oak species and laurels cover a massive forest area and are abundantly covered with mosses and epiphytes. The forest is extremely thick and the forest floor is covered with numerous species of herbs, shrubs and ferns. We encountered 20 species of rhododendrons along this trek, which were in the flowering stage up to 3,800 m asl; however, above this altitude, the species were in vegetative stage. Rhododendron diversity is very low up to 2,800 m asl. The trekking is much easier up to the Prek chu (river, 2,150 m asl), which is followed by steep climbing, up to Bakhim (2,600 m asl, a camping site for the trekkers) and Tshoka (2,950 m asl; old Tibetan camp which now has been evacuated by the KNP authority). Even though one has to cover 16 km long trek in the very first day, one does not feel exhausted because the forest harbours variety of colourful birds like Redstart, Whistling thrush, Drongo, Warbler, Bulbull,Tit, Magpie, Myna, Fly catcher, Cuckoo, Coal tit, Sun bird, Grandala, Barbet, Finch, etc., whose activities are so refreshing that even the person with little knowledge about birds cannot remain without capturing them in their simple cameras. The rhododendron species available between Yuksom and Bakhim are Rhododendron arboreum var. arboreum, R. grande, R. griffithianum and R. lindleyi (epiphytic rhododendron). Amongst these rhododendrons, R. arboreum has broad range of distribution and can be observed up to 3,200 m asl along this trekking trail; similarly, R. grande is available from 2,150 m to 2,700 m asl; while the status of R. griffithianum is very pathetic, there is a small patch at an altitude of ca. 2,300 m asl. The situation is similar in Fambong 146 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 16 The Rhododendron Lho Wildlife Sanctuary in east Sikkim where we encountered few trees of R. griffithianum at an altitude of ca. 2,250 m asl. The species needs immediate conservation measures for its long term survival. Rhododendrons are medicinal as well as poisonous. In this part of the Himalaya, R. arboreum is used in the form of medicine, the dried petals are chewed to clear the choking caused by fish or chicken bone (Pradhan & Badola, 2008); however, Major Madden reported cattle dying after consuming the foliage of R. arboreum in Kumaon Hill (Hooker, 1849). The nearby forest is highly disturbed between Bakhim and Tshoka owing to human habitation during the recent past; nonetheless, Tshoka, which formed the heart of the trekking trail, has its own significance. The view of Mt Pandim, early in the morning from Tshoka, when the golden rays of sun dart into the snowy peak, is so splendid that it looks like a beautiful painting clinging on the wall; the spectator feels like staring at it for hours or until one gets weary. The prominent rhododendron species available between Bakhim and Tshoka are R. arboreum [var. arboreum (red flower) and var. roseum (pink flower)], R. griffithianum and R. falconeri. On reaching 2,800 m asl altitude, the wet temperate forest species are replaced by conifer tree species such as Abies densa and Tsuga dumosa along with other species such as Magnolia globosa, Betula utilis, etc. Rhododendron falconeri with creamy yellow flower starts appearing at this altitude and extends up to 3,250 m asl; nevertheless, the immature pink floret, when young, sometimes creates confusion between R. falconeri and R. hodgsonii; at this time, they can easily be identified by their leaves, which are completely different for the two species. Along this altitude, R. arboreum, R. falconeri and Magnolia globosa forms a large distinct patch intermingled with each other, sheltering a variety of animals like Himalayan black bear, red panda, barking deer, Himalayan Thar, jungle cat, Binturong, etc. Dwarf bamboo, (Arundinaria maling) growing as undergrowth is very common, the leaf of which is an important food for the red panda and the new shoot for Himalayan black bear. Similarly, the fruit of Prunus nepalensis and Lithocarpus pachyphylla are relished by the Binturong and the Himalayan black bear. There have been instances of sighting of red panda by the people during winters, when they come out for the purpose of taking sunbaths (personal interaction) at Bakhim and Tshoka. We observed several scratch marks of Himalayan black bear on the tree trunk of Abies densa, Lithocarpus pachyphylla, Tsuga dumosa, etc. Above 3,100 m asl, Tsuga dumosa is replaced by Abies densa. The forest of Abies–Rhododendron extends up to 3,900 m asl. Tsuga dumosa has very restricted distribution; it has been observed only at Tshoka (west Sikkim) and below Lachen area in north Sikkim (author’s personal observation). Steady change in the rhododendron species is a very distinct feature from this zone Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 147 A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim 17 and the rhododendron diversity is high between 2,800 m to 4,000 m asl. R. barbatum and R. hodgsonii with red and pink flower appears at 3,200 m asl, sharply replacing R. arboreum and R. falconeri.These two rhododendron species have widespread availability up to Phedang (3,700 m asl) and are found in association with the only conifer tree species i.e., Abies densa and other tree species like Sorbus cuspidata towards the lower limit and Betula utilis towards the upper limit. Epiphytic rhododendron species viz., R camelliflorum and R. vaccinoides can also be observed on the Abies trees along with Vaccinium sp., but they are very difficult to sight due to its low availability in the area. Species such as Rosa sericea, Daphne cannabina, Viburnum cordifolium, Berberis insignis, etc., are the common associates of rhododendrons at this altitude. Scrubs of Gaultheria nummaruloides are very common, densely covering the ground surface. It is interesting to note the very high regeneration of R. hodgsonii along this transect likewise in Tholung–Kishong trekking trail in north Sikkim (Badola & Pradhan, 2010a); nevertheless, such excess regeneration of the species perhaps will have negative ecological impacts in the longer run. The dense canopy formed by the large leaves of R. hodgsonii will inhibit the growth of its own seedling as well as the seedlings of Abies densa by hindering the light required for their growth. There have been reports of availability of R. decipiens, a replica of R. hodgsonii which can be differentiated by its rose pink wide open corolla, fading to completely white, from the later species bearing bell shaped rose-pink flowers, fading to light pink (Pradhan & Lachungpa, 1990); however, we could not spot the species during our survey. With the increasing altitude, the soil becomes less exposed due to boulders and rocks, which are densely covered with spongy moss/peat moss, Sphagnum squarrosum and ferns, which make walking very difficult beside the designated footpath. In some shady places, even the trees are covered with spongy/peat moss. Further, the beauty of the trail is enhanced by the light green coloured lichen, old man’s beard (Usnea sikkimensis) hanging down the Abies-Rhododendron trees; this forms the chief food for the musk deer during the winter. Nearing to Phedang, a resting place for the trekkers, R. barbatum disappears and the shrub of R. wightii, R. campanulatum and R. campylocarpum appears as the main associate of R. hodgsonii. The flowering in R. wightii had just begun during our visit (yellow flower); while R. hodgsnii and R. barbatum was in full bloom.The trekkers’ hut at Phedang (3,700 m asl) is situated in the midst of the Abies-Rhododendron forest and the stunning view of Mt Pandim from here is beyond exaggeration. The beauty is further enhanced by the presence of R. campanulatum, R. campylocarpum, R. lanatum, R. cinnabarinum, R. pendulum and R. triflorum. We were told during the interaction that the flower colour (dark red) and flower shape of R. cinnabarinum in this part is 148 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 18 The Rhododendron different from those present in Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary (pink and cinnabar red) in north Sikkim (Badola & Pradhan, 2009), but we could not observe the flower this time; however, from personal experience (first author’s) in Sikkim–Nepal border trek along Singhalila range in west Sikkim, it can be speculated that the flower colour of R. cinnbarinum along this trek should be pink because of the distance factor, as both the ranges are close to each other. Though the species possesses beautiful flowers, Hooker (1854) reported goats and children dying after consuming the leaves and flowers of R. cinnabarinum in north Sikkim; even the wood is said to be poisonous – when used as fuel, it results in swelling of face and inflammation of eyes. Between 3,800 m and 4,000 m asl, the valley is entirely covered with red flowers of R. fulgens and R. thomsonii along with pink flowers of R. campanulatum and yellow flowers of R. campylocarpum, R. lanatum, R. wightii, R. triflorum, etc., and the ground is densely enveloped with scrubs of R. anthopogon, R. lepidotum, R. setosum, Juniperus recurva and Gaultheria pyroloides. Along this zone, nausea, dizziness and vomiting sensation is very common due to inhalation of the fragrance of these species. The tree species disappear completely on reaching near to Dzongri, which is situated at an altitude of ca. 4,000 m asl. From Dzongri view point (4,200 m asl), the fascinating sight of perpetual snow covered Khangchedzonga range is stupefying. The twoday trek (10 km) from Dzongri to Thangsing (4,200 m asl) to Samiti Lake (4,300 m asl) is very exciting, as the slope is mild and the ground is full of rhododendrons (R. anthopogon, R. lepidotum, R. nivale, R. setosum) and Junipers (Juniperus indica, J. recurva) and other high altitude floras like Aconitum sp., Anemone sp., Arenaria sp., Bergenia sp., Bistorta sp., Caltha sp., Cassiope fastigata, Corydalis sp., Gaultheria pyroloides, Primula sp., Mecanopsis sp., Myricaria sp., Potentila sp., Rumex sp., Rheum acuminatum, Saussurea ovalata, Saxifraga sp., Silene sp., etc., which – when in a flowering – gives a feeling of colourful carpet spread all over the ground. The noble rhubarb or Sikkim rhubarb (Rheum nobile) scattered on the rugged cliff gives a sensation as if someone is keeping a close eye on everyone passing through. The sighting of blue sheep, blood pheasant, Himalayan monal, etc., on rocky outcrops and steep slopes covered with rhododendrons, is very common; they can be seen foraging; however, one has to look very carefully on the slopes because they get camouflaged very easily. We observed a flock of blue sheep at Lamuney (4 individuals) and below Samiti Lake (25 individuals) during our trek; we spent almost two hours watching their activities and capturing them in our cameras. During our personal interaction with one of the Himal Rakshak (mountain guard) at Thangsing, he narrated about his encounter with Snow Leopard [when he was looking for his Dzo (breed of yak and cow, which is used for carrying Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 149 A glimpse of rhododendrons in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim 19 loads)], wild dogs, musk deer, etc. After climbing the strenuous steep slope from Samiti Lake to Goecha La, the eye-catching face to face view of Mt Khangchendzonga, the last abode, from very close is so enthralling that the feeling comes out in the form of spontaneous exclamation, wow!; however, due to bad weather, we could not reach Goecha La and had to retreat from Samiti Lake itself. The entire trek from Yuksom to Goecha La in Khangchendzonga BR is very fascinating and is a rich repository of biodiversity, which offers remarkable scope for rhododendron gene conservation as well as wide scope for the researchers to undertake researches on various aspects. It has been the priority component of the Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP) of Forest Environment and Wildlife Management Department (FEWMD), Government of Sikkim supported by Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to undertake the long term monitoring of the biodiversity of Sikkim, and this article is the by-product of the same project. ` Acknowledgements Authors are thankful to Shri Bhim Dhungel (Minister for FEWMD), Shri Arvind Kumar (PCCF cum Secretary, FEWMD), Dr. Thomas Chandy (Ex. Project Director, FEWMD) for providing necessary facilities and consistent encouragement. Authors would like to extend special thanks to Dr. S. Anbalagan (Additional Project Director I) and Divisional Forest Officers (SBFP) for motivating us. Authors thank the entire SBFP survey team who were also part of this survey. The SBFP consultants are acknowledged for providing technical assistance. References Badola, H.K. and Pradhan, B.K. 2009. Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Sikkim, an explorer’s paradise. The Rhododendron 49: 24–30. Badola, H.K. and Pradhan, B.K. 2010a. Discovery of new populations of a rare species Rhododendron niveum in Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim. The Rhododendron 50: 40–49. Badola, H.K. and Pradhan, B.K. 2010b. Population exploration of Rhododendron maddenii in Sikkim, bordering Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve – questioning rarity and endangerment. NeBio 1(1): 1–9. Hollick, C.A. and Smith, P.S. 1936. Tertiary floras of Alaska. US Govt. Publ. Off., Washington, DC, 185pp. 150 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 20 The Rhododendron Hooker, J.D. 1849. The Rhododendron of Sikkim – Himalaya. Reeve & Co., Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, New York. Hooker, J.D. 1854. Himalayan Journal. Chapter XXIII,Vol. 2, London. Irving, E. and Hebda, R. 1993. Concerning the origin and distribution of Rhododendrons. Journal of American Rhododendron Society 47(3): 139 Leslie, A.C 2004. The International Rhododendron Register and Checklist. 2nd Edition, Royal Horticultural Society, UK, 1544pp. Mao, A.A., Singh, K.P. and Hajra, P.K. 2001. Rhododendrons.Vol IV, pp 2167–2202. In Floristic Diversity and Conservation Strategies in India (eds. Singh NP and Singh DK), BSI, Kolkata. Pradhan, B.K. and Badola, H.K. 2008. Ethnomedicinal plants use by Lepcha tribe of Dzongu valley, bordering Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, in North Sikkim, India. Journal of Enthobiology and Ethnomedicine 2008, 4:22. doi:10.1186/1746–4269–4–22. Pradhan, U.C. and Lachungpa, S.T. 1990. Sikkim Himalayan Rhododendrons. Primulaceae Books, Kalimpong, West Bengal, 130pp. Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 151 Tholung-Kishong, a potenial ecotourism desinaion in Dzongu valley, North Sikkim, India: Scope for promoing nature and cultural tourism Bharat Kumar Pradhan*1 SBS Bhadauria2 and Dechen Lachungpa3 * bharatpradhan@sify.com; 1- Survey Expert; 2- Sp. PCCF cum Project Director; 3 -Divisional Forest Oficer Introduction The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) deines ecotourism as “a responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people”. The concept of ecotourism was developed during 1980s with a view to uniting conservation, communities and sustainable travel together and has gained full support from many government, non-government organizations, academic institutions, etc. Globally, developing ecotourism destinations is in high demand compared to conventional mass tourism due to its low impact/ pressure on the natural/fragile environment. In this context, Sikkim is not left behind as the Government through Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management has already framed ecotourism policy for Sikkim with a vision “to establish Sikkim as an ultimate and unique ecotourism destination ofering memorable and high quality learning experiences to visitors, and to contribute to poverty alleviation as well as to promote nature conservation” (DFEWM, 2011). Apart from these, several eco-treks/eco-trails within Sikkim have been declared by the State Government. One of the inest example is the promotion of Tholung-Kishong eco-trek in Dzongu landscape in North Sikkim vide Notiication No. 1975/F dated 11/12/2006 published in Sikkim Government Gazette No. 400 dated 15/12/2006. It is a 14 days round trekking trail covering a distance of approximately 60 km., and passes through areas like Bey, Tshana, Tumlong, Tholung, Thyugong Bhutti Nay, Ringiphrom, Temrong, Thijom, Phyaguteng clif, Tholukpe, Dikithong, Kisong Nay, Migeth La, Dawathong, Upper Ludu Chu, Singo Doh, Thepa La, Paanch Pokhari, Lum cave, Runglikyong, Kalyokbi ridge, Dryong Puno, Dongmu, Leek or Tingvong (Badola and Pradhan, 2008). Dzongu valley is the special reserve area for the Lepcha tribe and has its historic signiicances, as the Lepcha, considered to be the original inhabitant or indigenous tribe of Sikkim is believed to have settled in Sakyong village in Dzongu, when they irst arrived in Sikkim during the process of migration. Each scholar have their own perception regarding the origin of Lepchas (White, 1971; Nirash, 1982); however, the Rongkup or Lepcha themselves claims that they have originated from “Ney Meyel Lyang” (the land of hidden paradise), “Ne Male Lyang” (land of internal purity), a legendry kingdom on the slope of Kongchen-chu, as pronounced by the Lepchas for Mt. Khangchendzonga (Pradhan and Badola, 2008). They consider Kong-chen-chu as their guardian deity and believe it to be the eldest son of the Nature God. Kishong Lake 4 152 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 Uniqueness of the Tholung-Kishong eco-trek Major part of Dzongu valley, especially, upper Dzongu falls within Khangchendzonga National Park and is characterized by diverse snowy mountains, peaks, glaciers, lakes, etc. The thick virgin forest is enriched with numerous varieties of birds, animals and rhododendrons including the state tree, Rhododendron niveum (Badola and Pradhan, 2010) and some of the rare and threatened faunal and avifaunal species like Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Red Fox, Tibetan Sand Fox, Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Langur, Blood Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, etc. To protect the rich biological diversity of Dzongu landscape from emerging threats, several conservation zones such as Dawathong Himalayan Tahr Conservation Zone, Thepa La (north-east) Alpine Bird Conservation Zone, Thepa La (south-west) Medicinal Plant Conservation Zone, Panch Pokhari (Lungdoh Nay) Musk Deer Conservation Zones have been designated along the TholungKisong eco-trail. Tholung-Kishong eco-trail extends from ca. 1750 (Bey) – 4200 m asl (Kishong Lake) and further upto ca. 5500 m (Kishong La) and is characterized by temperate broad leaved forest, temperate coniferous forest, subalpine forest and alpine scrubs/ pastures; therefore, change in species composition along the increasing altitude is the peculiar characteristics of this eco-trek. The 13 km trek from Bey upto Tholung Gumpa (2500 m asl) via Tshana and Tumlong Nay is mild PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 and passes along the Ringpi chu; however, being under private control, the forest from Bey upto ca. 1800 m asl (above Tshana) is much disturbed and farming of large cardamom (Amomum subulatum) can be witnessed; the forest between Tumlong and Tholung is represented by diferent types of oak species such as Quercus lamellosa, Quercus lineate, Castanopsis tribuloides, Lithocarpus pachyphylla, etc., and other associated tree species such as Machilus edulis, Machilus odoratissima, Michelia excelsa, Juglans regia, etc. 5 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 153 Rhododendron edgeworthii Tholung Gumpa is situated amidst Oak-Rhododendron forest and shelters diferent kind of bird species like Yellow Billed Magpie, Green Pigeon, Satyr Tragopan, Finch, Wabbler, Kalij Pheasant, etc., and animals like Goral, Assamese Macaque, Himalayan Black Bear etc. The spectacular view of slow change in forest types from temperate broad-leaved forest to temperate conifer forest to sub-alpine forest and alpine scrubs and snowy peaks above all, from Tholung Gumpa, is very interesting. The overlowed water from Panch Pokhari running down as ive separate streams from the top of the naked slope on the opposite side further enhances the beauty of Tholung area. There is a continuous climbing for approximately 6 km from Tholung upto Rinziphrom and mild slope up to Temrong forest (2.5 km; ca. 3100 m asl); however, the trek is not exhaustive because the area is full of rhododendron species such as Rhododendron arboreum, Rhododendron edgeworthii, Rhododendron grande, Rododendron falconeri and Magnolias such as Magnolia campbellii, which when in full bloom is very mesmerizing. From 3000 m altitude, temperate broad-leaved forest abruptly changes to temperate coniferous forest (AbiesRhododendron forest) and extend upto 3800 m altitude. There are two diferent trek routes from Temrong forest, one leads to Jhumthul Phuk glacier and other to Kishong Lake and further higher up to Kishong La, which passes between the peaks of Yakjuknamteng and Lama Ongden peak. From this pass, the view of massive Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Sinioulchu is overwhelming. The trek towards Jhumthul Phuk glacier along the Jhumthul chu is mild compared to Kisong Lake; nevertheless, due to less human movement, the trek route has completely disappeared, as experienced by us in our recent survey during August - September, 2013 and we 6 154 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Panax pseudo-ginseng could trek only 2 km. towards the glacier because the area was entirely covered by the shrub species like Rubus sp., and the population of the Himalayan Black Bear has increased tremendously in the area. Towards Kisong Lake, trek upto Phyaguteng clif from Temrong forest (approx. 5 km) is mild as well as steep. Rhododendron diversity increases above this altitude and are represented by R. falconeri, R. hodgsonii, R. niveum, R. thomsonii, R. campyllocarpum, R. cilliatum, R. glaucophyllum, R. barbatum, R. lanatum, etc. Epiphytic rhododendrons such as R. camellilorum and R. pendulum are also available along 3000 m altitude on the Abies densa trees along with numeours Vaccinium species. Of these rhododendron species, R. hodgsonii is widely available upto 3600 m altitude and R. thomsonii upto 3900 m. A small patch of R. niveum has been encountered along Thijom area (Badola and Pradhan, 2010). Along the Tholung-Kisong ecotrek, the toughest climbing is from Thijom until one crosses Phyaguteng clif (approx. 1.5 km); but the stunning view of Kisong waterfall and numerous other waterfalls on the bare clifs does not give the trekkers a chance to think about the tougher side of the trek. Some of the porters revealed that they were reluctant in crossing the Phyaguteng clif and returned back from there itself in their earlier visit. The valley narrows further as the altitude increases; the trek from Phyaguteng upto Kisong Lake via Tholukpe and Dawathong is very mild and beautiful. Above 3800 m asl, the tree species completely disappear and the ground becomes inaccessible as the valley is completely covered with shrub of Rhododendrons such as R. aeruginosum, R. fulgens, R. thomsonii, R. wightii along with Rosa sericea, Berberis sp., and scrubs of Rhododendron anthopogon, R. lepidotum, R. setosum, Juniperus recurva, J. squamata, etc. Beyond 4200 m asl, the vegetation is much less PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 and consisted of R. anthopogon R. setosum, Juniperus recurva and J. squamata. The open ground is fully covered with species like Aconitum sp., Anemone sp., Arenaria sp., Bergenia sp., Bistorta sp., Caltha sp., Corydalis sp., Cynanthus lobatus, Juncus himalense, Kobresia sp., Mecanopsis sp., Myricaria sp., Oxyria dygina, Pedicularis sp., Poa sp., Potentila peduncularis, Primula sp., Rheum acuminatum, Rheum nobile, Rhodiola rosea, Saussurea gossypiphora, Saussurea obvallata, axifraga sp., Silene sp., etc.In addition, there are unaccountable number of medicinal herb species along this eco-trek especially above 3000 m asl including species of high conservation concern such as Aconitum heterophyllum, Aconitum spicatum, Cordycep ophiosinensis, Heracleum wallichii, Panx pseudo-ginseng, Panax bipinnatiidum, Paris polyphylla, Picrorhiza kurroaa, Rheum acuminatum, Rheum nobile, Selenium tenuifolium, etc. Some of the places of interest Singho Lake: Encircled by the rocky bare mountain / clifs, Singo Lake runs approximately 1 km by ½ km covering an approximate area of 0.1917 sq. km. It is the largest lake in the entire trek. It forms the suitable habitat for many medicinal plants including Rheum nobile, etc. Here a kind of snail is also found which is considered having medicinal properties. Rare Ophicordycep sinensis is also reported to be found here. There are numerous large and small lakes available in the area. The famous Lama Angden peak is also visible from here during clear weather condition. The valley being narrow and steep, breathing is the major problem everybody faces in this area. Flat land is very rare except in some places. To reach Singo Lake is very tedious task; one has to cross through the rocky ridges, steep bouldery slopes and narrow passage of Thepa La (5000m) and through the dense Rhododendron shrubs and pasture land, if entered from Tingvong village. Kutki Orar: Being very rich in Kutki, the area gained its name of Kutki Orar (Kutki - Picrorhiza kurrooaa; Orar – cave) as the space under the huge tilting rocks was and is still used as shelter by the previous hunters as well as the trekkers. The area is situated at an altitude of 4181m and whole area is covered with kutki and has been designated as Medicinal Plant Conservation Zone. Thepa La:Situated at an altitude of ca. 4600m, Thepa La forms the good habitat condition for our state bird – the blood pheasant. Blood Pheasants in locks can be seen foraging under the rhododendron scrubs, slopes and in and around the area. The area has been designated as the Alpine bird conservation zone. The area in also inhabited by Monal pheasant but being solitary bird, it is very diicult to spot it on the rocky ridges/outcrops and bouldery area. The ridge runs from South-West to North-East. To its North-West lies the magniicent Singo Tsho Lake. The Thepa peak or Tikchom (5064m) lies on the right side of the Thepa La. At the base towards Singo Tso Lake, there is a small lake serving as the source of drinking water for the available wildlife in the area. Saussurea obvallata PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 7 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 155 Stone formed male genital at Tholung Gumpa Cultural signiicance Dzongu as a whole or Tholung-Kisong eco-trail in particular is signiicant due to its association with the history of Sikkim and the culture of the Lepcha tribe. When the then capital of Sikkim, Yuksom, faced frequent threats of being attacked by the Gorkhas from adjacent Nepal, Lama Lhatsun Chempo, one of the 3 monks responsible for consecrating the irst Chogyal/Spiritual leader of Sikkim had made his way to north Sikkim with all the important relics via the same route. It was him who built the Tholung Gumpa (Monastery) in early 18th century to hide the sacred Buddhist and Sikkim relics from the Gorkhas. Now those relics are kept in Tholung Gumpa (ca. 2500 m asl) under the surveillance of Ecclesiastical Department (Government of Sikkim) and are taken out once in every 3 years in the presence of Lamas and the oicials of concerned Department during the month of April. To witness the same, Lepchas from Dzongu as well as from far of places including Darjeeling and Kalimpong (West Bengal) assemble at the Tholung Gumpa. Lepcha tribe believes that, whoever comes to visit Tholung Gumpa has to seek permission from the Nature GOD at Tumlong Nay situated at an altitude of ca. 2000 m asl in the midst of lush green oak forest. The same is believed to be the protecting deity of the Tholung Gumpa. If one fails to do so, he will have to face the wrath of the Nature GOD. There are several other cultural heritage around Tholung area like Kong-cha-chu (hot water spring), Sinjibadong waterfall, Chorten of Lama Lhatsun Chempo and King Chagdor Namgyal, Leek Gomchen, dresses of Lama Lhatsun Chempo, stone formed male genital organ, etc. Thyugong Bhutti Nay, situated at an altitude of ca. 2650 m asl and ca. 2.5 km from Tholung Gumpa, is another 8 156 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Tholung Gumpa amidst lush green temperate vegetation place of interest and is an important pilgrimage for the Buddhists. The entire area is rocky and the huge rocks have unique and beautiful natural carvings which resembles holy script of Buddhist (Pecha), arranged in lines. As per the Lepcha belief, Guru Rimpoche has hidden the sacred relics at this place also and when he was about to lock the box, demon from somewhere came to know about it and tried to open the box. Instantly, Guru Rimpoche severed the hand of the demon and this can be evidenced from rocks at Thyugong Bhutti Nay. Besides, one can observe the spurt of water oozing out of the rock considered as Thi (holy water) by the Buddhist, foot print on stone believed to be that of Guru Rimpoche, wish fulilling hole, pain reliever stone, etc. Pain reliever stone at Thyugong Butti Nay All the lakes in Sikkim are considered holy; however, Kisong Nay (holy lake) situated at an altitude of ca. 4200 m asl has unique signiicance. Apart from being beautiful, there is a white straight sand path (approx. 1.5 m breadth) across the Lake, under the water in the middle of the lake which, as per the Lepcha faith, is used by the Khandulas (fairy) for walking. The lake is extremely holy for the Lepchas and the Buddhist PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 and they believe that whoever visits the lake once in a lifetime will go to heaven after death. A true incident/ coincident had occurred at Kisong Nay where a young man from upper Dzongu captured a photo of the Lake along with the mountain on the side of it. When he developed the picture, to his surprise, he found an image of Chorten (Stupa) in the Lake; the same picture is available at Tholung Gumpa. Apart from this, a plant resembling a paddy (Juncus sp.) can be seen growing densely in one end of the lake. The Lepcha considers it as “God’s Paddy ield” or “Deota ko dhaan bari” which is worth seeing. Panch Pokhari, as the name indicates the presence of ive lakes; but it has several lakes. The important one of which is the Lungdoh Nay, a holy lake. In Sikkim, everything is considered holy and has its own signiicance. Similarly, Lungdoh Nay has its religious signiicance though not much bigger in size. The Lepchas being hunters from the beginning, in Lepcha culture, every male individual has to perform hunting at least once in his lifetime which is though Beneits of ecotourism to the society With such uniqueness in terms of biodiversity, cultural heritage and geographical diversity, TholungKishong eco-trek has wide scope for promoting it as a hot ecotourism destination. Ecotourism has been viewed as an opportunity to generate income and local employment. It is managed at local level which means community members are actively involved in all the processes. For example, the local youth can work as interpreters, guides, porters, artisans, artistes and other service providers. This will help in enhancing the economic status of the local people vis-à-vis reduces their dependency on the natural resources thereby leading to conservation of the natural wealth. The eco-tourist will contribute directly and indirectly to research and conservation activities in the area by donating their time, expertise or other resources. They play an important role in marketing of the ecotreks in international markets and getting funds from diferent national and international agencies for further development of the eco-treks. Besides, funding for conservation work is generated from the eco-tourist, in the form of entrance fee, camping fee, local taxes, etc. Ecotourism further helps in preservation of the local culture in a way that there are many local cultural landmarks along Tholung-Kishong, which requires maintenance and management for the tourists as well as the future generations to enjoy and this can be achieved through community based ecotourism. SBFPs iniiaive towards promoion of ecotourism in Sikkim a dying practice. Before performing such action, they ofer prayer to the nature as they are the nature worshippers. As per the direction of the Boongthing, a Lepcha priest, they go to the Lungdoh lake, ofer prayers, khada and agarbattis and head towards the direction indicated by the Boongthing. It is a surprising fact and a belief or simply a co-incidence that after ofering prayers, they do not return empty handed. Similarly, there are several other places like Tsho Melong Nay (Mirror Lake), Guru Lagang (holy cave), Jhumthyu Pup (holy cave), Thangsingi (Lion’s head), Seto Lagang, Dharma Chakra, along the TholungKishong eco-trail which has, some or other way, religious/cultural signiicances. PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 SBF Project under the Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management Department is playing a pivotal role in promoting ecotourism in Sikkim. The ecotourism component under SBFP has been designed to develop and improve the sector for beneit to the local forest fringe communities while ensuring environmental conservation. This component focuses mainly on: 1. Policy, strategy, regulation and resolving bottlenecks impeding the development of the sector 2. Marketing Sikkim’s ecotourism opportunities and creating linkages between suppliers 3. Developing areas for speciic forms of tourism 9 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 157 4. Developing ecotourism facilities in the State 2. Establishment of ecotourism marketing cell (EMC) 5. Improving the design, production and sales of handicrafts Further, as a part of ecotourism marketing, around 10 villages are to be selected and build successful ecotourism initiatives/activities. These villages are to be provided training on ecotourism service provision, etc. 6. Devising a waste management collection and disposal system at selected tourist areas 7. Capacity development As a part of this, several measures have already been initiated, such as: 1. Framing of Ecotourism Policy 2. Identiication of Potential trek routes 3. Conduction of preliminary surveys of TholungKisong eco-trail by the eco-tourism experts to develop it into international standards 4. Completion of biodiversity survey along important eco-trek routes such as Yuksom – Dzongri – Gochela, Tholung – Kishong, Golitaar Tinjurey, Ravangla – Bhaleydhunga, etc., as a part of documentation work 5. Identiication of ecotourism villages 6. Exposure visit given to the local unemployed youths and EDC members of Dzongu for preparing them as eco-guides 7. Field trainings provided to them on trekking related activities such as tent pitching, selection of camp sites, rock climbing, rescuing, etc. Measures that have been planned to promote ecotourism are: 1. Development of wildlife watching areas, water holes, etc., along the eco-treks References 1. Badola HK and Pradhan BK. 2008. Dzongu Landscape in Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve: Biodiversity and unique cultural spots along Tholung-Kisong eco-trek in north Sikkim (Brochure), Beracah Printers, Deorali (Gangtok), Sikkim, India. 2. Badola HK and Pradhan BK. 2010. Discovery of new populations of a rare species Rhododendron niveum in Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim. The Rhododendron 50: 40-49. 3. DFEWM, 2011. Sikkim Ecotourism Policy. Published by Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP), Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management (DFEWM), Govt. of Sikkim, Gangtok, Sikkim (India). 4. Nirash N. 1982. The Lepchas of Sikkim. http://www. thdl.org/texts/reprints/bot/bot_1982_02_03.pdf ]. 5. Pradhan BK and Badola HK. 2008. Ethnomedicinal plants used by Lepcha tribe of Dzongu valley, bordering Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, in north Sikkim, India. Journal of Enthobiology and Ethnomedicine 4:22, doi: 10.1186/1746-4269-4-22. 6. White CJ. 1971. Sikkim and Bhutan: Twenty one years in the north-east frontier 1887–1908. Printed in India by Sharma FC at Lakshmi Printing Works, Delhi and published by Gupta LR, Vivek Pubs. Home, Delhi; 1971. It has been the priority component of the Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP) of Department of Forest Environment and Wildlife Management (DFEWM), Government of Sikkim supported by Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to undertake the long term monitoring of the Biodiversity and Promoting Ecotourism in the State; this article is the by product of the same project . 10 158 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 MAGNOLIA TAXA A NEED FOR CONSERVATION Sabita Dahal Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management Government of Sikkim sabitadahal26feb@gmail.com Magnolia campbellii in full bloom at Lachen valley during irst week of April Introduction The genus Magnolia comprises of more than hundred species worldwide, which occurs naturally throughout Asia and North America and ten species are reported from India (Anonymous, 1964). Three species are reported from Sikkim, viz. M. campbellii, M. pterocarpa and M. globosa (Rai&Rai, 1994). Magnolia cambellii is the most widely known species in the state. Magnolias belong to the family Magnoliaceae showing primitive characteristics. They are placed in between Gymnosperm and the Angiosperm, hence are of evolutionary signiicance. They are both evergreen and deciduous and many are fragrant. The lowers are often seen on bare branches before the foliage appears and this simplicity contributes to their universal appeal (Hogan et al. 2004). are extremely tough which protect them from these beetles. The lowers does not secrete nectar, instead, they produce protein-rich pollen upon which the beetles feed. Habitat and Magnolias Distribution of It grows in climates ranging from temperate upto sub alpine region and has a fragmented distribution in nature with the main centre in East and Southeast Asia. Literary survey reveals that very little information is available on occurrence of Magnolia species in Sikkim. Out of eight species reported (Red List Category updated 1998), location of only three species have been identiied. Magnolia campbellii was irst reported by Dr. William Grifith in 1838. The pink lowered Magnolia campbellii grows in Darjeeling hills of West Bengal in Lloyd Botanic Garden and other nurseries. It has also been reported from Tendong peak in South Sikkim (Harra.1966),M. globosa has been found throughout the Central and Eastern Himalayas and into Western China. It was irst reported by Hooker in Sikkim in 1854. Its occurrence in KBR has been reported by Maity and Maity, 2007. Another species M. hodgsonii has been reported from Teesta Magnolia, a lagship group is an endangered taxa (Eduardo et al. 2013). As mentioned they represent an ancestral group of plants as their lower buds are enclosed in a bract rather than sepals. The sepals and petals are undifferentiated and are called as tapels. It evolved before bees appeared; therefore the lowers are adapted to pollination by the beetles. The carpels of Magnolia PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 11 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 159 valley, Near Mangan. Occurence of M. pterocarpain Sikkim has also been reported (Rai et al. 1994). Distribution and brief description of M. campbellii, the most common of the three species reported from Sikkim is mentioned as under. Worldwide Magnolia campbellii is distributed in the Himalayas of Bhutan, North East India, North Burma, North Myanmar, West China and Nepal. In Eastern Himalayas it is distributed across Sikkim, Darjeeling, Nagaland, Manipur and North Assam. The white lower form of M. campbellii occurs in the natural forest of Sikkim, Darjeeling, East Nepal, Bhutan, and North Assam. In Sikkim the white lowered Magnolia campbellii occur in the wild in moist hemlock forests in between 2100-3400m amsl, mostly in association with Tsugadumosa and Rhododendron arboreum located in Lachen valley, Tholung - Kisong in North district, along the steep slope from Bakhim to Tshoka in west district, Tendong in South district and Pangolakha wild life sanctuary in East district. The distribution of the species through ield observation and consultation with the local people has been shown in the map. It grows best in moderately rich, moist and porous soil, and are suitable in medium to high elevation, at low elevation they remain stunted. M. campbellii is a deciduous tree of approx. 25 – 30m tall and is commonly called as Ghoge Chanp. Bark is greyish brown. Twigs are glabrous, yellowish green when young and reddish brown when old. It lowers during the month of April-May. The White coloured, large, showy, fragrant lowers are of 8 inches long, grow upright with 1216 tepals and are enveloped by rust coloured silky haired bracts (Photo 1). After opening, the innermost tepals remain erect while the others spread widely. Leaves unfold after lowers which are elliptic to obovate, acute, base rounded or cordate, pubescent and petiolate. Uses Magnolias are valued worldwide for their lowers and forms. They produce large, showy, fragrant lowers of white, pink, red, purple and yellow colours. Some evergreen taxa have glossy and leathery leaves. Some have buds, stems and undersides of leaves covered with attractive gold to copper to brown felt – hairs. The leaves of Magnolia campbellii can be dried and used in loral arrangements and wreathes. The trunk of the tree is a highly valued timber. Tree wood is hard and somewhat heavy, which makes it a good choice in the manufacturing of doors, cabinets etc. It plays an immense ecological role as songbirds, migrating birds and other small animals consume 12 160 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 the seeds of Magnolia lowers, which provide protein in their diet. Beetles feed on the pollen from Magnolia lowers and beneit from the protein intake as well. Like other trees, Magnolia provides a source of shelter for different species of small animals and birds, particularly the species of evergreen Magnolias, which last through cold winter months. Large trees are well liked for their thick canopy, which provides shade in warm climates. The shade is important for cooling a living environment as well as providing shade for other plants and animals. Needs for conservation attention The Red List of Magnoliaceae, published jointly by Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and Fauna and Flora International (FFI), UK through the Global Trees Campaign (GTC), has identiied 131 wild magnolias as being danger of extinction, from a global total of 245 species. This potentially catastrophic loss signiies the threat to the biological diversity because they are highly sensitive indicator of the well being of the forest in which they occur. Over half the world’s Magnolia species face extinction in their native forest. However understanding of the ecological consequences of biodiversity is a fundamental challenge. Many loral species in Sikkim has received academic attention, however, Magnolias has not been adequately researched in the state. Assessment of Magnolias in India is reported to undertaken only on the basis of its distribution in Assam (Perscomm.with Chicago Botanical Garden). The assessment needs a revision, therefore baseline survey on its distribution with altitudinal amplitude and density followed by the detailed ecological studies should be a priority for the state. Acknowledgements Author is extremely thankful to JICA assisted Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP) under Forest, Environment and wildlife Management Department (FEWMD), Government of Sikkim for providing inancial support. References Hogan et. al. 2004. Flora, The Gardeners Bible. Gordon Cheers, Global Book Publishing, 2003, 2004. Anonymous. 1964. The Wealth of India Series. 14 S V Marg, New Delhi-110 067 Eduardo et all. 2013. Gap analysis to support ex situ conservation of genetic diversity in Magnolia, a lagship plant group.Biodiversity and Conservation, 22 (3), p.567-5 90. Maity, D. & Maity, G.G. 2007. The Wild Flowers of Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim. Naya Udyog, Kolkata, India. H. Harra. 1966. Flora of Eastern Himalaya. Vedams Books International.Vol.I – III. Rai, Topdhan & Rai, L.K. 1994. Trees of the Sikkim Himalayas. Indus Publishing Company, New Delhi. Magnolia campbellii in natural forest at Tshoka (2700m), West Sikkim Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 161 CONSERVATION OF OAK SPECIES IN SIKKIM HIMALAYAS Sanjyoti Subba1, *, S. Z. Lucksom2 and Dechen Lachungpa3 1 Survey Expert, Sikkim Biodiversity Conservation and Forest Management Project (SBFP), FEWMD, Deorali, Gangtok 2 Retd. Director Forest, Development Area, Gangtok 3 Divisional Forest Oficer, SBFP, FEWMD, Government of Sikkim, Deorali, Gangtok ak belongs to Fagaceae family and is one of the most important, ecological & economical tree species of sub-tropical and temperate zone of Sikkim Himalaya. The oak species in Sikkim is yet to be studied properly regarding its distribution, regeneration and over exploitation problem in its natural habitat. It is a species yet to be explored in depth. O The various research works have been carried out on the Rhododendrons and Orchids and many reports, publication and scientiic information are available on the subjects but in the case of trees very little efforts have been made to study them in their natural habitat. In Sikkim, Oak needs to be preserved and conserved because of its ecological and economical value. The oak species in Himalayan region of India is considered as natural resources for supplying timber, fuel and fodder. Its semi-evergreen and evergreen silvicultural characteristics have helped the stiff hilly slopes from erosion and landslides. Thus conserving soil from degradation. It also helps to maintain greenery of the degraded forest area. Oak has the capacity of maintaining the groundwater level. Sikkim is listed among the world’s ten most critical habitat for biodiversity and the State’s total geographical area has 47.34% of forest cover harboring approximately 5000 species of lowering plants, 150 species of mammals, 550 species of birds, 650 species of butterlies and moths, 33 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphibians, 48 species of ishes, 36 species of rhododendrons, 16 species of conifers, 450 species of trees, 515 species of orchids,60 primulas species, 424 medicinal plants, 23 bamboos varieties, 11 oaks varieties, 362 species of ferns and allies and 175 species of wild edible plants (Pradhan & Lachungpa 1990, Rai & Rai 1993, Cowan & Cowan 1929, Singh & Dash 2002) and it is sure that many species of lora and fauna are still unidentiied. The oaks species is chiely used for construction purposes, making charcoals, handles for agricultural equipments by the local people. Leaves are good for feeding the cattle. Besides, oil content of the nuts has not been studied but in future it may act as a source of oil content. Because of the above fact, the species in the natural habitat is endangered and threatened to be extinct. So far, the study of oak species conservation in Sikkim is almost non-existent. Some of the oak species which are classiied rare, endangered and threatened may be wiped out in near future from the biota. If proper management and conservation initiatives are not taken in time there is every possibility of the species extinction from the natural habitat. Therefore, the species needs to be protected and conserved for future generation. In comparison, the genera like Orchids and Rhododendrons, are highly studied regarding their propagation through tissue culture and hybridizations. In Sikkim, many areas have been already declared as protected areas for Orchids and Rhododendrons. Rhododendron habits are protected through establishment of two Rhododendrons Sanctuaries (Barsey in West Sikkim and Singhba in North Sikkim) and in Orchids (Orchid Conservation Centre at Tinkitam, South Sikkim). PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 162 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Sikkim possess 11 Oaks species and they are economically as well as ecologically signiicant, and thereof important for the conservation of the species in the State. The genus “Quercus, Lithocarpus and Castanopsis” belongs in the beech family Fagaceae. Earlier, Quercus and Lithocarpus were included under genus Quercus. In the genera Quercus, fruits which have a conical or globular nut partly encircled by an involucral cup of fused or overlapping bracts. In genera Lithocarpus, fruits are covered with involucres, several involucres coalescing in fruit and forming clusters on the fruiting spike. In the case of Castanopsis genera, nuts are wholly enclosed in spiny involucres. An oaks genus is distinguished by its fruits. * Corresponding author: Email address: sanjyoti234@gmail.com 23 PHOTO Castanopsis hystrix Hook & Thom. ex A. DC Quercus lamellosa Smith Lithocarpus pachyphylla (Kurtz) Rehder 24 PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 163 ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND ITS CONSERVATION In Sikkim Himalaya, oaks species are distributed in a wide range of habitats from sub-tropical to temperate forest, altitudinal ranges upto 3000 m amsl. Oak trees are important components of hardwood forests, and in certain places oak forms the climatic climax forest with particular species like Engelhardtia spicata at Dikling Forest, in East Sikkim. In Ribdi and Bharang area of West Sikkim, there we ind pure patches of Lithocarpus pachyphylla species. Whole Rabdentse Reserve Forest area is covered with Quercus lamellosa and mostly with Castanopsis hystrix and C. tribuloides. In Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary the whole forest area is covered with Castanopsis tribuloides, Castanopsis hystrix, Quercus lamellosa (sparsely distributed) and Michelia velutina, Michelia cathcartii and Beilschmiedia species as top canopy and secondary canopy is occupied by species like Eurya sp, Symplocos sp etc. Because of its dense crown formation it helps to arrest the monsoon clouds thereby contributing and recharging the water level of the area. Thus, spring water is providing in the lower villages. Oak species plays a critical role in protecting soils from erosion and landslides. The composition of the oak forest regulates water low in watersheds, and maintaining water quality in streams and rivers. Oaks are highly mycorrhizal and the trees themselves inhabit soils and the roots growth through soil and break it into aggregates thus increasing its porosity and ability to take in water. In Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary, Rhododendron dalhousiae is seen growing on the Oak tree trunks as an epiphyte along with many ferns & fern-allies, and orchid species, thus increasing in the biomass of the tree. Besides lora, many other faunal and avifaunal species are dependent on the Oaks trees. For example, India Tree Pie, Himalayan Tree Pie, Yellow-Billed Blue Magpie, they relish in the nuts of the Quercus fruits. The Red Panda, Squirrels, and lying squirrels make their nests on the Quercus trees. Squirrels are fond of chewing the nuts of the tree. The tree is good for roosting of Kalij pheasant and avoiding the threats from predators like foxes, jackals and wild dogs. The broad-leaved hill forest in temperate Himalayan region comprises mostly oak forest which allows other species to grow under its canopy and thus forms the cushion under the forest loor. In monsoon season such cushion helps to avoid the formation of splash and reel erosion leading to gully formation ultimately avoiding the landslide problem in the area. PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 164 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii CONSERVATION In the Himalayan region of India, oak forest is considered as natural resource and many species of oaks are under threat of extinction in the wild, largely due to land use changes, construction of roads, housing and unsustainable harvesting of nuts. Natural regeneration is poor in wild as in initial fruiting stage; maximum number of borers and insects lay their eggs and thus destroying the embryos cotyledons. In most of the area where the crown formation is close, and where the sun ray is totally cut off, the oak natural regeneration is poor due to accumulation of thick leaf litter. Because of these facts, conservation is needed. THE NEED FOR CONSERVATION AND PRESERVATION OF OAK FOREST IN ITS NATURAL HABITAT • It is a good fodder tree, thus vulnerable for lopping and topping. Such activities should be avoided in its natural habitat. • It is a good timber and fuel wood species thus unnecessary extraction from its natural habitat should be avoided. • The nuts are edible and are freely marketed, therefore sustainable marketing policies should be framed. • In nature, the Quercus species shows some afinity towards some particular species. For example, as in Dilking Reserve Forest, in East Sikkim with Engelhardtia spicata. Such interesting association should be preserved for the further studies. • Pure stands of Lithocarpus pachyphylla species in Ribdi and Bharang area, in West Sikkim should be preserved and conserved. • Lithocarpus fruits are eaten by wild boar as well as bear and binturong thus directly proportional to increase of their population. Increased wild boar population directly relates to growth of predator species like Leopards etc. These species needs to be conserved in their natural habitats which can be done through declaration of conservation zones like Rhododendrons and Orchids species. 25 TABLE 1: LIST OF 11 OAKS SPECIES FOUND IN SIKKIM AND ITS DIFFERENT PARAMETERS SN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 26 Name of Species Quercus glauca hunb. Quercus lineata Smith Local Name Characters Habitat Distribution and altitude Uses Murse Phalant he height of tree is 20 m tall. Bark rough, issured and leaves oblong-oblong lanceolate, leaves sharply serrate in the upper half, resembling those of Q. lineate but smaller. Glans much exserted, narrowly ovoid, about ½ inch long. Flowerings occur in April to May and fruiting is acorns occur in Oct to December. Moist forests and Temperate forest S. W. China, Afghanistan, Bhutan, N India, Japan, Kashmir, Korea, Nepal, Sikkim and Vietnam along 800 to 3000 m amsl. Wood is used for fuel wood and foliage cut for fodder. Phalant he height of tree is 30 m tall. Bark grey-brown with rough spots. Leaves ovate-lanceolate, serrulate on the upper half, glaucous beneath. Glans much broader than long. Flower occurs in April to may and fruiting occurs in September and October. Mixed mesophytic forest Bhutan, N India, Wood is used Myanmar, Nepal, n for building hailand, Vietnam and Sikkim along 1900 to 3000 construction. m amsl. he tree height is 30 m tall. Bark grey-brown with rough spots. Leaves large, serrate, and glaucous. Cupules very large with circular lamellae, and embracing two-thirds of the glans. Quercus lamellosa Bajrant/ Buk Smith Fruits borne on short spikes with concentrically ringed involucral cups almost encircling the nuts. Fruits occur in the months of April to May and fruiting occurs in November. Lithocarpus elegans (Blume) Hatus. ex Soep Lithocarpus pachyphylla (Kurz) Rehder Moist forests and gregarious and common in wet areas. C. Nepal to S. W. China, Nepal and Sikkim along 1600 to 2800 m amsl. Wood is very hard, heavy, with very broad medullary rays and used for building purposes. Arkaula he tree height is 30 m tall and Mixed leaves lanceolate to oblanceolate. Forest, rarely Flowers yellowish, spike, fruits gregarious is small shining nuts. W. Nepal to S.W. China, S. Good fuel E. Asia along 600 to 2100 wood m amsl. Sungure Katus he lower rows of scales are fused, the upper closely adpressed with only their apices free. Leaves elliptic-lanceolate long pointed, Flowering spikes very slender longer than leaves. Temperate forest Several involucres coalescing in fruit and forming clusters on the fruiting spike. Nut depressed globular. Flower occurs in the months of June to July and fruiting occurs in November. E. Nepal to Burma and Sikkim to along 1800 to 2700 m amsl. Good fuel wood and wood is used for building purposes. PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 165 SN Name of Species Lithocarpus fenestrata Roxb. 6. Local Name Characters Habitat Distribution and altitude Uses Arkaula he tree height is 30 m tall. Leaves lanceolate or elliptic lanceolate. Cupules crowded but not connate, enveloping most of the glans. he bases of the scales Mixed forest are connate, the apices free and hooked. Flowering occurs in March, fruiting occurs in December. Bhutan, NE India, Laos, NE Myanmar, Sikkim, N hailand, NE Vietnam below 1700 m. Wood is used for building purposes. Katus he bark of young trees peels of in long strips when cut. Blaze biscuit with yellow streaks. Leaves similar to those of Castanopsis tribuloides, var. Sub-tropical longispina. Flowers occur in Febrauary to March and fruiting forest occurs in September. he cupules are set sideways on the branchlets, entirely develop the glans and are marked4-6 wavy ridges. Sikkim, West Bengal and Bhutan along altitude up to 1600 m Wood is used for building purposes. C. Nepal to S. W. China. S.E. Asia along 1300 to 2900 m amsl. Nuts edible and wood are used for roofshingles. 7. Quercus lanceaefolia Roxb 8. Castanopsis indica Aule/ Dalne (Roxb.) Miq. Katus he tree height is 25 m tall. Leaves large, serrate, oblong to oblong-elliptic, lowering spikes cream-coloured, clustered. 9. Quercus serrata humb. var roxburghii Sano Buk Medium size tree leaves serrate with sharp points. Acorn almost Sub-tropical enclosed in the cups which have forest elongate scales. Sikkim, up to 1500 m amsl. Used for timbers Patle Katus he tree height is 30 m tall. Leaves entire lanceolate ine pointed, but leaves variable in shape and sometimes toothed. Nuts wholly enclosed in spiny involucres. Sub-tropical broadleaved evergreen forest. C. Nepal to S. W. China, Burma, S. E. Asia, S. E. Tibet along 1000 to 2400 m amsl. Used for timbers Temperate Forest Uttar Pradesh to S. W. China and S.E. Asia along up to 2300 m amsl. Used for timbers Castanopsis hystrix Miq. 10. 11. Similar like C. hystrix but oten diferent by its fruits, the Castanopsis involucres is visible between Musre/ Patle tribuloides (Smith) the tuts of spines. Leaves Katus A.DC. usually lanceolate long pointed, lowering spikes solitary and fruiting spikes. REFFERENCES 1. Cowan and Cowan (1929). The trees of Northern Bengal including shrubs, woody climbers, bamboos, palms and tree ferns. International Book Distributors, Dehra Dun. 2. Flora of China @ eloras.org 3. Polunin O and Stainton A (1984). Flowers of the Himalaya. Oxford University Press. New Delhi. PANDA | VOL. 6 | ISSUE 4 | 2013-14 166 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii Forest associated with Schima wallichii 4. Rai TD and Rai LK (1994). Trees of Sikkim Himalaya. Indus Publishing House, New Delhi. 5. Pradhan, U.C and Lachungpa, S.T. 1990. SikkimHimalayan Rhododendrons, Primulaceae Books, Kalimpong, West Bengal. 6. Dash, S.S. and Singh, P. (2002). TREES OF SIKKIM. 27 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii 167 168 Rapid BiodiveRsity suRvey RepoRt-ii