Dinesh Bhuju | Tribhuvan University (original) (raw)

Papers by Dinesh Bhuju

Ecoprint: An International Journal of Ecology, 2016

Available with full text.Key words: Churiya range; Climate; forest Degardation; GIS; Himalaya; So... more Available with full text.Key words: Churiya range; Climate; forest Degardation; GIS; Himalaya; Soil typeEcoprint An International Journal of Ecology Vol. 14, 2007 Page: 65-71 Uploaded date: 31 May, 2011

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2007

The growth of urban population in Kathmandu has resulted in increased degradation of its forests ... more The growth of urban population in Kathmandu has resulted in increased degradation of its forests and consequently increased recreational pressure on them. Ranibari forest (area 7.6 ha), situated at the north west region of Kathmandu valley represents a typical such forest in Kathmandu. Quantitative study was carried to assess the structural dimensions and analyze community structure of the forest. Samplings were done in 26 large quadrats (size: 25mx25m) for canopy stratum, 52 medium plots (size: 5mx5m) for understory stratum and 130 small plots (size: 1mx1m) for the study of ground vegetation. The forest was floristically rich with a total of 108 species belonging to 58 families and 92 genera. The canopy stratum was predominated by dense clumps of bamboos and tree species of regional flora such as Zizyphus incurva, Stranvaesia nussia, Persea duthiei, Engelhardtia spicata, Celtis australis, and Schima wallichii. The shrub vegetation was relatively poor, dominated by invasive alien La...

With the beginning of 20th century, the governments around the world started on setting the core ... more With the beginning of 20th century, the governments around the world started on setting the core habitats aside as the solution to the dwindling wildlife population, the charismatic ones at first. This management approach of protected areas did progress fundamentally from the twin tradition of conservation and ecological discourse. As the scientific knowledge expanded and practical experiences matured, we find the conservation approach undergoing a fundamental shift. The protected areas are now planned with local people, and featured with ecological corridors and other landscape characters to provide more space for species movement and natural processes. Nepal set up its first national park in 1973, but very soon it not only realized some of the adversities faced by the local people living around the park but also the space constraint for population distribution and dynamics. Taking the advantage of new progresses in conservation biology, Nepal adopted landscape approach and impleme...

This study aims to know the current status of various aspects of tree ring (dendrochronological) ... more This study aims to know the current status of various aspects of tree ring (dendrochronological) studies in Nepal and assess its future prospects. The first tree ring research in the country was carried out in 1970s, after which a steady progress is seen till date with only 56 tree ring studies reported in published and unpublished research reports, thesis and journal articles. Studies have covered some 15 tree species in which the most favored tree for the study has been Abies spectabilis and the most widely used parameter for analysis has been the ring width. The longest chronology for Nepal was build from Tsuga dumosa with 1,141 years that extended from 856 AD to 1996 AD. On climatic reconstruction, three studies were found that covered temperature from 1546 AD to 1991 AD. Past studies have covered areas like dendroclimatology, dendroecology, dendroarchaeology and stable isotopes in dendrochronology. By geographic coverage, 22 districts out of 75 in the country have been covered,...

Pinus roxburghii Sarz. makes sub-tropical dry forest in the Himalaya and considered a potential s... more Pinus roxburghii Sarz. makes sub-tropical dry forest in the Himalaya and considered a potential species for dendrochronological studies. In Kathmandu valley, its distribution seems to be fluctuating from historical time. This study was carried out to disclose the plantation history of P. roxburghii inside Kathmandu valley as well as to extend understanding of its diameter, age and growth rate relationships. Tree core samples were collected from four locations in Kathmandu and one in Bhaktapur. The plantation history of Sallaghari (Bhaktapur), Singha Durbar Baraf Bag and Kumari temple, Thapathali (Kathmandu) was determined around 1870 AD, 1900AD and1875AD, respectively. The radial increment rate of this tree at Sallaghari (Bhaktapur) was 0.25±0.05cm/yr, Singh Durbar was 0.31±0.08 cm/yr, and Kumari temple was 0.32 ±0.03 cm/yr. The tree growth noticeably varied with location and topo-climatic conditions. Therefore, it is suggested that site selection is crucial for the suitability of t...

Anthropocene, 2014

High altitude Himalayan regions are geo-dynamically active and sensitive to natural disturbances.... more High altitude Himalayan regions are geo-dynamically active and sensitive to natural disturbances. Nonetheless, even in this remote region, human pressure is often most important in influencing forest and landscape structure. In the last decades, fuelwood demand has risen due to increasing numbers of tourists and mountaineers. To understand human interactions with forest resources, stand structure and composition were examined at the landscape scale in the Sagarmatha National Park and its Buffer Zone in the Khumbu valley (Nepal). Using biological and historical data sources, a multi-scale approach revealed the influence of human activities on the distribution of tree species and forest structure. We sampled stand structure and environmental characteristics from 173 plots, and derived anthropogenic variables from thematic maps and satellite images for multivariate statistical analyses. Results suggest relationships among forest structure, anthropogenic influences, and topography. Low-density stands (100-150 tph) with sparse trees and rare big trees were in close proximity (0-36 m) to tracks and lodges. The wide variability in species diversity (0.67 at SNP and 0.58 at BZ) was strongly related to environmental factors, such as elevation, and human pressure. The frequent removal of green branches has adverse effects on tree growth, forest resistance, resilience, and regeneration capacity. We conclude that natural resources can adequately supply the local population needs, but current practices are not sustainable.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2011

Mudka, Bedkot and Jhilmila are natural lakes in dry sub-tropic Churiya hills of Kanchanpur in far... more Mudka, Bedkot and Jhilmila are natural lakes in dry sub-tropic Churiya hills of Kanchanpur in far-western Nepal. A study was carried out on these lakes to prepare baseline information on water quality, floristic and structural features of adjoining forest vegetation, socio-cultural importance and threats to help support their sustainable use. The study was conducted in March (pre-monsoon) and November 2008 (post-monsoon). A significant seasonal variation (p≤0.05) in the physico-chemical properties of the lake waters was recorded. Adjoining forests of Mudka contained 23 species at canopy, 13 species at shrub and 27 species at herb strata, while that of Bedkot had 31 species of plants at canopy, 9 species at shrub and 37 species at herb strata, and Jhilmila had 23 species at canopy, no species at shrub and 47 species at herb strata. The most frequently seen trees were Mallotus philippensis and Shorea robusta in the forests surrounding Mudka and Bedkot whereas Jhilmila's surroundin...

Himalayan Journal of Sciences, 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hjs.v7i9.7111 Himalayan Journal of Sciences Vol.7 Issue 9 2011 pp.34

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2013

Over 5,000 standing water bodies, including those <1 ha and spread in 74 districts of Nepal ha... more Over 5,000 standing water bodies, including those <1 ha and spread in 74 districts of Nepal have been scanned on the topographic sheets (scale of 1:125,000). Majority of these lakes or ponds are either in the high altitudes (above 3,000 m) or in lowland Tarai (below 500 m). In a literature review we found over 163 research studies conducted since the first study of lakes in 1969 in Khumbu region, majority being at the initiative of national academia, their faculties and graduate students. However, a complete inventory of Nepal’s lakes is still lacking. Their characteristics and distinction from wetlands are also to be defined as the existing laws and rules do not protect lakes or ponds categorically, rather they are blanketed under wetlands and/or other river like water resources. Research observations have shown that acid depositions are the most likely source of pollution affecting high altitude lakes in the Himalayan regions during spring. Their value as religious sites has al...

Climate of the Past, 2014

Treeline shifting in tandem with climate change has widely been reported from various parts of th... more Treeline shifting in tandem with climate change has widely been reported from various parts of the world. In Nepal, several impacts of climate change on the physical environment have been observed, but study on the biological impacts is lacking. This dendrochronological study was carried out at the treeline in the high mountain slope of Kalchuman Lake (3750-4003 m a.s.l.) area of Manaslu Conservation Area in the central Nepal Himalaya to explore the impact of climate change on the treeline dynamic. Two belt transect plots (size: 20 m wide, > 250 m long) were laid which included treeline as well as tree species limit. Ecological mapping of all individuals of dominant trees Abies spectabilis and Betula utilis was done and their tree cores were collected. Stand character and age distribution revealed an occurrence of more matured B. utilis (max. age 198 years) compared to A. spectabilis (max. age 160 years). A. spectabilis contained an overwhelmingly high population (89 %) of younger plants (< 50 years) indicating its high recruitment rate. Population age structure along the elevation gradient revealed an upward shifting of A. spectabilis at the rate of 2.61 m year −1 since AD 1850. The upper distribution limit of B. utilis was found to be stagnant in the past few decades. An increment in plant density as well as upward shifting in the studied treeline ecotones was observed. The temporal growth of A. spectabilis was correlated negatively with the monthly mean and minimum temperature of June to September of the current and previous year. The regeneration of A. spectabilis, on the other hand, was positively correlated with August precipitation and monthly maximum temperature of the month of the current year. The growth and regeneration of A. spectabilis was more sensitive to maximum and minimum temperature rather than average temperature. The growth of the B. utilis was mainly limited by moisture stress during the pre-monsoon season. As these two species presented species-specific responses to climate change with differential pattern in regeneration condition, much wider differences are anticipated in their population status as climate continues to change throughout the century.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2011

A study was carried out at the treeline ecotone (3,730m-3,950m asl) of Langtang National Park in ... more A study was carried out at the treeline ecotone (3,730m-3,950m asl) of Langtang National Park in central Nepal with an aim to document the impact of climatic warming on ecological chracteristics. Three sampling sites were selected at Chaurikharka and Lauribina, where no serious anthropogenic pressure was noticed. The nearest meteorological station has records of climatic warming in recent years. Six tree species and three shrub species belonging to seven families were enumerated from the study plots. The average basal area for tree species was found to be 20.56 m2 per ha while average tree density was found to be 734 trees per ha with Abies spectabilis as dominant species. The mean DBH (diameter at breast height) of tree species was found to be 15.8 cm (max. 115.5cm). Density of dead trees accounted 2 no. per ha with basal area 0.195m2 per ha. Average sapling and seedling density of tree species per ha was observed to be 1,590 and 831 respectively. The average sapling and seedling d...

Small-scale Forestry, 2014

ABSTRACT Although protected areas are central to global biodiversity conservation, most land lies... more ABSTRACT Although protected areas are central to global biodiversity conservation, most land lies within unprotected areas. In the developing world forest habitats have received increased attention for their potential as carbon sinks in a climate change perspective, and only few of these forests fall within protected areas. This study assesses how various management regimes, within and outside legal protection, influence forest carbon stocks in temperate broad-leaved forests in the Langtang area of Nepal. Woody biomass stocks, as well as soil organic carbon, were estimated using allometric relationships and converted into carbon estimates by standard equations. Regardless of the high similarity in species composition between the two forest management types, trees in the protected forest (PF) inside Langtang National Park were significantly taller and relatively larger than those in the government forest (GF) outside at Bhalche. Also, above-ground (AG) biomass, and hence AG carbon stocks, and soil organic carbon, were higher in the comparatively healthier PF; the total carbon stock was 284.5 ton/ha in the PF, compared to 167.0 ton/ha in the GF. Similarly, the total carbon pool was slightly greater at higher elevation under both management regimes. It was, however, much lower on the southern slope inside the protected forest because people extracted forest biomass, despite the legal protection, this area being close to settlements. Hence, the extent of biomass extraction determines the forest carbon storage capacity. Notably, it is not the legal protection per se, but rather its level of implementation on the ground that determines its success in protecting natural resources. This is in turn contingent on creating alternative livelihood options for communities relying directly on natural resource extraction.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2012

This paper is aimed to study the tree line dynamics of Himalayan silver fir (Abies spectabilis D.... more This paper is aimed to study the tree line dynamics of Himalayan silver fir (Abies spectabilis D. Don) based on its tree-ring data and age stand distribution at Langtang National Park, Central Nepal. Climatic response on radial growth, recruitment of A. spectabilis and its age distribution are carried out. The average tree density of the species in the study area (total 48 plots of 20 m x 20 m) was 236 no/ha while that for sapling and seedling in the study area was 255 and 350 no/ha, respectively. The stand character and age distribution of the species showed a high level of recruitment in the recent decades, with decreased in average age along with increased altitude. Tree-growth climate relationship showed negative response with temperature of March-May. Upward advancement of tree line is expected in the coming recent decades though not necessarily uniform through the line.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6506 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 220-229

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2012

The present study was carried out to understand ecology of forests and social strata in Handi Kho... more The present study was carried out to understand ecology of forests and social strata in Handi Khola Buffer Zone User Committee of Parsa Wildlife Reserve in Central Nepal. Methods used were stratified random sampling of household economics with questionnaire survey for socio-economic information and quantitative and qualitative analysis for vegetation study. Seventy two households were studied in-depth through household surveys. Vegetation ecology and forest resources were studied in Rakshaniya, Dhaneshwor, Laamitar and Masine forests of the BZ, totaling 37 sample plots. The study recorded a total of 36 tree species from 19 families. Shorea robusta was the dominant tree species in the community forest with highest important percentage, standing volume, biomass and sustainable fuel wood yield. The study area was sufficient to fulfill the demand of the fuel wood and timber in a sustainable way but annual demand of fodder (9640.54 tons/year) outstripped the annual sustainable supply of ...

Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011

Nepal the “Shangri-La” in the lap of the Himalayas is gearing up for modern times as it starts re... more Nepal the “Shangri-La” in the lap of the Himalayas is gearing up for modern times as it starts rebuilding after a decade of senseless violence and destruction. The nation one of the poorest in the global development index is rich in natural resources and biodiversity. Reports of medicinal plants far exceeding those recorded and reported so far are encouraging and at the same time concerns for medicinal plants under threat as a result of overexploitation are emerging from Nepal. The harsh mountain terrains, lack of industrialization and harnessing potentiality of its areas of strength; water; natural resources and tourism make it poor in per capita income which averages ~ 300 US$, with half the population living under >1$ a day. Nepal is beginning to realize that the way ahead is only possible through the path of Science and Technology (ST). Nepal Academy of Science and Technology formerly known as Royal Academy of Science and Technology organized the fifth national conference hel...

Climate Dynamics, 2014

The climate of western Nepal was reconstructed for the past 249 years using ring width and wood d... more The climate of western Nepal was reconstructed for the past 249 years using ring width and wood density of Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Spach from western Nepal. A total of 46 increment core samples were collected from 23 individual trees growing in an open A. spectabilis stand near timberline of 3850 m a.s.l. in Humla District, western Nepal. The core samples were subjected to densitometric analysis to obtain chronologies of ring width and three kinds of intraannual bulk densities, i.e., minimum, maximum, and mean. Response analysis of tree-ring parameters with climate records revealed that the ring width was correlated negatively with March-May (pre-monsoon) temperature and positively with March-May precipitation, while the minimum density was correlated positively with March-July temperature and negatively with March-May precipitation. On the other hand, the maximum and mean densities were positively correlated with August-September and March-September temperatures, respectively. These results indicate that the ring width and minimum density are primarily controlled by the pre-monsoon temperature and precipitation, while the latewood density by the late monsoon temperature. Finally based on these results of the response analysis, a transfer function was established, with which March-September temperature was reconstructed for the past 249 years, which shows a warming trend from 1750s until approximately 1790, followed by cooling until 1810, then by a gradual warming trend extending to 1950, and a notable cold period continuing up to the present. No evidence of a consistent warming trend over the last century or two commonly appearing in higher latitudes was found in the present reconstruction, but possible factor behind the widespread glacial retreat in the Nepal Himalayas was discussed.

The pandemic COVID-19 caused by novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease tha... more The pandemic COVID-19 caused by novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease that has created an unprecedented global challenge affecting all the countries including Nepal In Nepal, the first case of COVID-19 was reported on 24 January, 2020 The number of case increased to 1,798 by June 1, 2020 Most of these cases were recorded in the lowland Tarai districts of the country indicating that the major transmission slipped from the border between Nepal and India Thousands of Nepali people go to India for work every year This year, they returned en-masse to Nepal after India declared lockdown However, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in a student who had returned from China and a few initial cases were from people who had returned from Europe via Middle East using international flights As of June 1, 2020, the coronavirus has spread to 61 districts (out of 77) of Nepal as those home returning people, mostly the migrant workers made their destinations by roads using...

The increase in temperature due to global warming is affecting forest ecosystems worldwide. At th... more The increase in temperature due to global warming is affecting forest ecosystems worldwide. At the treeline ecotone growth is usually restricted by low temperatures. Recently, the impacts of climate change have been visible with the upward shift of the Himalaya fir (Abies spectabilis) in Nepal. Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don grows at the treeline ecotone and subalpine forest. Hardly any studies have been carried on this species in Nepal. The local people have reported that this species has been seen colonizing upper altitude in recent years, however, these needs to be verified with dendroecological studies. The study aims to assess the response of R. campanulatum to climatic variability and to evaluate the relationship of its basal diameter (Groundline) and age using dendroecological methods. Results reveal that the basal diameter was found to be significantly correlated with age (r2= 0.824, p<0.00001). Using the basal diameter age equations, attempts were made to study the age...

The presentation of material in this document and the geographical designations employed do not i... more The presentation of material in this document and the geographical designations employed do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of any of the agencies involved, concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

Ecology and Evolution

Abstract To contain transmission of COVID‐19, lockdowns or strict restrictions of people's mo... more Abstract To contain transmission of COVID‐19, lockdowns or strict restrictions of people's mobility outside their residences were instituted in a majority of countries worldwide, including Nepal, where the first phase of nationwide lockdown was observed from 24 March to 21 July 2020. This sudden halt in human outdoor activities brought positive and negative impacts on forests and wildlife. We undertook a study to learn the impact of the COVID‐19 lockdown on wildlife and forests in the protected areas (PAs) of Nepal. Between July and September 2020, data on illegal activities recorded by the staff of PAs and also those reported by media were collected and analyzed. Key informant interviews (KII) were done with the park officers and security personnel by virtual communication (telephone, messenger app, and video call) to collect detailed information and for corroboration. The collected data were categorized into four groups: (a) wildlife killed, (b) wildlife injured, (c) arrest incidents related to forest crime, and (d) arrest incidents related to wildlife crime. Data from the fiscal year 2019–2020 were analyzed, comparing before lockdown and after. Among 20 PAs investigated during the lockdown, the study found substantial increases in wildlife death in two PAs, Banke National Park, and Bardia National Park. Similarly, Chitwan National Park (CNP) and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (SNNP) witnessed a rise in wildlife poaching. CNP and SNNP are located close to densely populated cities and also have human settlements in their peripheries. Wildlife was sighted freely roaming inside PAs during the lockdown, presumably because the absence of visitors and human activities during the lockdown decreased disturbance. Thus, the wildlife was enjoying the freedom of movement on the one hand, and on the other hand was threatened by poachers, many of whom were laid off from other activities and were taking advantage of the lapse in security.

Ecoprint: An International Journal of Ecology, 2016

Available with full text.Key words: Churiya range; Climate; forest Degardation; GIS; Himalaya; So... more Available with full text.Key words: Churiya range; Climate; forest Degardation; GIS; Himalaya; Soil typeEcoprint An International Journal of Ecology Vol. 14, 2007 Page: 65-71 Uploaded date: 31 May, 2011

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2007

The growth of urban population in Kathmandu has resulted in increased degradation of its forests ... more The growth of urban population in Kathmandu has resulted in increased degradation of its forests and consequently increased recreational pressure on them. Ranibari forest (area 7.6 ha), situated at the north west region of Kathmandu valley represents a typical such forest in Kathmandu. Quantitative study was carried to assess the structural dimensions and analyze community structure of the forest. Samplings were done in 26 large quadrats (size: 25mx25m) for canopy stratum, 52 medium plots (size: 5mx5m) for understory stratum and 130 small plots (size: 1mx1m) for the study of ground vegetation. The forest was floristically rich with a total of 108 species belonging to 58 families and 92 genera. The canopy stratum was predominated by dense clumps of bamboos and tree species of regional flora such as Zizyphus incurva, Stranvaesia nussia, Persea duthiei, Engelhardtia spicata, Celtis australis, and Schima wallichii. The shrub vegetation was relatively poor, dominated by invasive alien La...

With the beginning of 20th century, the governments around the world started on setting the core ... more With the beginning of 20th century, the governments around the world started on setting the core habitats aside as the solution to the dwindling wildlife population, the charismatic ones at first. This management approach of protected areas did progress fundamentally from the twin tradition of conservation and ecological discourse. As the scientific knowledge expanded and practical experiences matured, we find the conservation approach undergoing a fundamental shift. The protected areas are now planned with local people, and featured with ecological corridors and other landscape characters to provide more space for species movement and natural processes. Nepal set up its first national park in 1973, but very soon it not only realized some of the adversities faced by the local people living around the park but also the space constraint for population distribution and dynamics. Taking the advantage of new progresses in conservation biology, Nepal adopted landscape approach and impleme...

This study aims to know the current status of various aspects of tree ring (dendrochronological) ... more This study aims to know the current status of various aspects of tree ring (dendrochronological) studies in Nepal and assess its future prospects. The first tree ring research in the country was carried out in 1970s, after which a steady progress is seen till date with only 56 tree ring studies reported in published and unpublished research reports, thesis and journal articles. Studies have covered some 15 tree species in which the most favored tree for the study has been Abies spectabilis and the most widely used parameter for analysis has been the ring width. The longest chronology for Nepal was build from Tsuga dumosa with 1,141 years that extended from 856 AD to 1996 AD. On climatic reconstruction, three studies were found that covered temperature from 1546 AD to 1991 AD. Past studies have covered areas like dendroclimatology, dendroecology, dendroarchaeology and stable isotopes in dendrochronology. By geographic coverage, 22 districts out of 75 in the country have been covered,...

Pinus roxburghii Sarz. makes sub-tropical dry forest in the Himalaya and considered a potential s... more Pinus roxburghii Sarz. makes sub-tropical dry forest in the Himalaya and considered a potential species for dendrochronological studies. In Kathmandu valley, its distribution seems to be fluctuating from historical time. This study was carried out to disclose the plantation history of P. roxburghii inside Kathmandu valley as well as to extend understanding of its diameter, age and growth rate relationships. Tree core samples were collected from four locations in Kathmandu and one in Bhaktapur. The plantation history of Sallaghari (Bhaktapur), Singha Durbar Baraf Bag and Kumari temple, Thapathali (Kathmandu) was determined around 1870 AD, 1900AD and1875AD, respectively. The radial increment rate of this tree at Sallaghari (Bhaktapur) was 0.25±0.05cm/yr, Singh Durbar was 0.31±0.08 cm/yr, and Kumari temple was 0.32 ±0.03 cm/yr. The tree growth noticeably varied with location and topo-climatic conditions. Therefore, it is suggested that site selection is crucial for the suitability of t...

Anthropocene, 2014

High altitude Himalayan regions are geo-dynamically active and sensitive to natural disturbances.... more High altitude Himalayan regions are geo-dynamically active and sensitive to natural disturbances. Nonetheless, even in this remote region, human pressure is often most important in influencing forest and landscape structure. In the last decades, fuelwood demand has risen due to increasing numbers of tourists and mountaineers. To understand human interactions with forest resources, stand structure and composition were examined at the landscape scale in the Sagarmatha National Park and its Buffer Zone in the Khumbu valley (Nepal). Using biological and historical data sources, a multi-scale approach revealed the influence of human activities on the distribution of tree species and forest structure. We sampled stand structure and environmental characteristics from 173 plots, and derived anthropogenic variables from thematic maps and satellite images for multivariate statistical analyses. Results suggest relationships among forest structure, anthropogenic influences, and topography. Low-density stands (100-150 tph) with sparse trees and rare big trees were in close proximity (0-36 m) to tracks and lodges. The wide variability in species diversity (0.67 at SNP and 0.58 at BZ) was strongly related to environmental factors, such as elevation, and human pressure. The frequent removal of green branches has adverse effects on tree growth, forest resistance, resilience, and regeneration capacity. We conclude that natural resources can adequately supply the local population needs, but current practices are not sustainable.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2011

Mudka, Bedkot and Jhilmila are natural lakes in dry sub-tropic Churiya hills of Kanchanpur in far... more Mudka, Bedkot and Jhilmila are natural lakes in dry sub-tropic Churiya hills of Kanchanpur in far-western Nepal. A study was carried out on these lakes to prepare baseline information on water quality, floristic and structural features of adjoining forest vegetation, socio-cultural importance and threats to help support their sustainable use. The study was conducted in March (pre-monsoon) and November 2008 (post-monsoon). A significant seasonal variation (p≤0.05) in the physico-chemical properties of the lake waters was recorded. Adjoining forests of Mudka contained 23 species at canopy, 13 species at shrub and 27 species at herb strata, while that of Bedkot had 31 species of plants at canopy, 9 species at shrub and 37 species at herb strata, and Jhilmila had 23 species at canopy, no species at shrub and 47 species at herb strata. The most frequently seen trees were Mallotus philippensis and Shorea robusta in the forests surrounding Mudka and Bedkot whereas Jhilmila's surroundin...

Himalayan Journal of Sciences, 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hjs.v7i9.7111 Himalayan Journal of Sciences Vol.7 Issue 9 2011 pp.34

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2013

Over 5,000 standing water bodies, including those <1 ha and spread in 74 districts of Nepal ha... more Over 5,000 standing water bodies, including those <1 ha and spread in 74 districts of Nepal have been scanned on the topographic sheets (scale of 1:125,000). Majority of these lakes or ponds are either in the high altitudes (above 3,000 m) or in lowland Tarai (below 500 m). In a literature review we found over 163 research studies conducted since the first study of lakes in 1969 in Khumbu region, majority being at the initiative of national academia, their faculties and graduate students. However, a complete inventory of Nepal’s lakes is still lacking. Their characteristics and distinction from wetlands are also to be defined as the existing laws and rules do not protect lakes or ponds categorically, rather they are blanketed under wetlands and/or other river like water resources. Research observations have shown that acid depositions are the most likely source of pollution affecting high altitude lakes in the Himalayan regions during spring. Their value as religious sites has al...

Climate of the Past, 2014

Treeline shifting in tandem with climate change has widely been reported from various parts of th... more Treeline shifting in tandem with climate change has widely been reported from various parts of the world. In Nepal, several impacts of climate change on the physical environment have been observed, but study on the biological impacts is lacking. This dendrochronological study was carried out at the treeline in the high mountain slope of Kalchuman Lake (3750-4003 m a.s.l.) area of Manaslu Conservation Area in the central Nepal Himalaya to explore the impact of climate change on the treeline dynamic. Two belt transect plots (size: 20 m wide, > 250 m long) were laid which included treeline as well as tree species limit. Ecological mapping of all individuals of dominant trees Abies spectabilis and Betula utilis was done and their tree cores were collected. Stand character and age distribution revealed an occurrence of more matured B. utilis (max. age 198 years) compared to A. spectabilis (max. age 160 years). A. spectabilis contained an overwhelmingly high population (89 %) of younger plants (< 50 years) indicating its high recruitment rate. Population age structure along the elevation gradient revealed an upward shifting of A. spectabilis at the rate of 2.61 m year −1 since AD 1850. The upper distribution limit of B. utilis was found to be stagnant in the past few decades. An increment in plant density as well as upward shifting in the studied treeline ecotones was observed. The temporal growth of A. spectabilis was correlated negatively with the monthly mean and minimum temperature of June to September of the current and previous year. The regeneration of A. spectabilis, on the other hand, was positively correlated with August precipitation and monthly maximum temperature of the month of the current year. The growth and regeneration of A. spectabilis was more sensitive to maximum and minimum temperature rather than average temperature. The growth of the B. utilis was mainly limited by moisture stress during the pre-monsoon season. As these two species presented species-specific responses to climate change with differential pattern in regeneration condition, much wider differences are anticipated in their population status as climate continues to change throughout the century.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2011

A study was carried out at the treeline ecotone (3,730m-3,950m asl) of Langtang National Park in ... more A study was carried out at the treeline ecotone (3,730m-3,950m asl) of Langtang National Park in central Nepal with an aim to document the impact of climatic warming on ecological chracteristics. Three sampling sites were selected at Chaurikharka and Lauribina, where no serious anthropogenic pressure was noticed. The nearest meteorological station has records of climatic warming in recent years. Six tree species and three shrub species belonging to seven families were enumerated from the study plots. The average basal area for tree species was found to be 20.56 m2 per ha while average tree density was found to be 734 trees per ha with Abies spectabilis as dominant species. The mean DBH (diameter at breast height) of tree species was found to be 15.8 cm (max. 115.5cm). Density of dead trees accounted 2 no. per ha with basal area 0.195m2 per ha. Average sapling and seedling density of tree species per ha was observed to be 1,590 and 831 respectively. The average sapling and seedling d...

Small-scale Forestry, 2014

ABSTRACT Although protected areas are central to global biodiversity conservation, most land lies... more ABSTRACT Although protected areas are central to global biodiversity conservation, most land lies within unprotected areas. In the developing world forest habitats have received increased attention for their potential as carbon sinks in a climate change perspective, and only few of these forests fall within protected areas. This study assesses how various management regimes, within and outside legal protection, influence forest carbon stocks in temperate broad-leaved forests in the Langtang area of Nepal. Woody biomass stocks, as well as soil organic carbon, were estimated using allometric relationships and converted into carbon estimates by standard equations. Regardless of the high similarity in species composition between the two forest management types, trees in the protected forest (PF) inside Langtang National Park were significantly taller and relatively larger than those in the government forest (GF) outside at Bhalche. Also, above-ground (AG) biomass, and hence AG carbon stocks, and soil organic carbon, were higher in the comparatively healthier PF; the total carbon stock was 284.5 ton/ha in the PF, compared to 167.0 ton/ha in the GF. Similarly, the total carbon pool was slightly greater at higher elevation under both management regimes. It was, however, much lower on the southern slope inside the protected forest because people extracted forest biomass, despite the legal protection, this area being close to settlements. Hence, the extent of biomass extraction determines the forest carbon storage capacity. Notably, it is not the legal protection per se, but rather its level of implementation on the ground that determines its success in protecting natural resources. This is in turn contingent on creating alternative livelihood options for communities relying directly on natural resource extraction.

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2012

This paper is aimed to study the tree line dynamics of Himalayan silver fir (Abies spectabilis D.... more This paper is aimed to study the tree line dynamics of Himalayan silver fir (Abies spectabilis D. Don) based on its tree-ring data and age stand distribution at Langtang National Park, Central Nepal. Climatic response on radial growth, recruitment of A. spectabilis and its age distribution are carried out. The average tree density of the species in the study area (total 48 plots of 20 m x 20 m) was 236 no/ha while that for sapling and seedling in the study area was 255 and 350 no/ha, respectively. The stand character and age distribution of the species showed a high level of recruitment in the recent decades, with decreased in average age along with increased altitude. Tree-growth climate relationship showed negative response with temperature of March-May. Upward advancement of tree line is expected in the coming recent decades though not necessarily uniform through the line.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6506 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 220-229

Nepal Journal of Science and Technology, 2012

The present study was carried out to understand ecology of forests and social strata in Handi Kho... more The present study was carried out to understand ecology of forests and social strata in Handi Khola Buffer Zone User Committee of Parsa Wildlife Reserve in Central Nepal. Methods used were stratified random sampling of household economics with questionnaire survey for socio-economic information and quantitative and qualitative analysis for vegetation study. Seventy two households were studied in-depth through household surveys. Vegetation ecology and forest resources were studied in Rakshaniya, Dhaneshwor, Laamitar and Masine forests of the BZ, totaling 37 sample plots. The study recorded a total of 36 tree species from 19 families. Shorea robusta was the dominant tree species in the community forest with highest important percentage, standing volume, biomass and sustainable fuel wood yield. The study area was sufficient to fulfill the demand of the fuel wood and timber in a sustainable way but annual demand of fodder (9640.54 tons/year) outstripped the annual sustainable supply of ...

Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011

Nepal the “Shangri-La” in the lap of the Himalayas is gearing up for modern times as it starts re... more Nepal the “Shangri-La” in the lap of the Himalayas is gearing up for modern times as it starts rebuilding after a decade of senseless violence and destruction. The nation one of the poorest in the global development index is rich in natural resources and biodiversity. Reports of medicinal plants far exceeding those recorded and reported so far are encouraging and at the same time concerns for medicinal plants under threat as a result of overexploitation are emerging from Nepal. The harsh mountain terrains, lack of industrialization and harnessing potentiality of its areas of strength; water; natural resources and tourism make it poor in per capita income which averages ~ 300 US$, with half the population living under >1$ a day. Nepal is beginning to realize that the way ahead is only possible through the path of Science and Technology (ST). Nepal Academy of Science and Technology formerly known as Royal Academy of Science and Technology organized the fifth national conference hel...

Climate Dynamics, 2014

The climate of western Nepal was reconstructed for the past 249 years using ring width and wood d... more The climate of western Nepal was reconstructed for the past 249 years using ring width and wood density of Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Spach from western Nepal. A total of 46 increment core samples were collected from 23 individual trees growing in an open A. spectabilis stand near timberline of 3850 m a.s.l. in Humla District, western Nepal. The core samples were subjected to densitometric analysis to obtain chronologies of ring width and three kinds of intraannual bulk densities, i.e., minimum, maximum, and mean. Response analysis of tree-ring parameters with climate records revealed that the ring width was correlated negatively with March-May (pre-monsoon) temperature and positively with March-May precipitation, while the minimum density was correlated positively with March-July temperature and negatively with March-May precipitation. On the other hand, the maximum and mean densities were positively correlated with August-September and March-September temperatures, respectively. These results indicate that the ring width and minimum density are primarily controlled by the pre-monsoon temperature and precipitation, while the latewood density by the late monsoon temperature. Finally based on these results of the response analysis, a transfer function was established, with which March-September temperature was reconstructed for the past 249 years, which shows a warming trend from 1750s until approximately 1790, followed by cooling until 1810, then by a gradual warming trend extending to 1950, and a notable cold period continuing up to the present. No evidence of a consistent warming trend over the last century or two commonly appearing in higher latitudes was found in the present reconstruction, but possible factor behind the widespread glacial retreat in the Nepal Himalayas was discussed.

The pandemic COVID-19 caused by novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease tha... more The pandemic COVID-19 caused by novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease that has created an unprecedented global challenge affecting all the countries including Nepal In Nepal, the first case of COVID-19 was reported on 24 January, 2020 The number of case increased to 1,798 by June 1, 2020 Most of these cases were recorded in the lowland Tarai districts of the country indicating that the major transmission slipped from the border between Nepal and India Thousands of Nepali people go to India for work every year This year, they returned en-masse to Nepal after India declared lockdown However, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in a student who had returned from China and a few initial cases were from people who had returned from Europe via Middle East using international flights As of June 1, 2020, the coronavirus has spread to 61 districts (out of 77) of Nepal as those home returning people, mostly the migrant workers made their destinations by roads using...

The increase in temperature due to global warming is affecting forest ecosystems worldwide. At th... more The increase in temperature due to global warming is affecting forest ecosystems worldwide. At the treeline ecotone growth is usually restricted by low temperatures. Recently, the impacts of climate change have been visible with the upward shift of the Himalaya fir (Abies spectabilis) in Nepal. Rhododendron campanulatum D. Don grows at the treeline ecotone and subalpine forest. Hardly any studies have been carried on this species in Nepal. The local people have reported that this species has been seen colonizing upper altitude in recent years, however, these needs to be verified with dendroecological studies. The study aims to assess the response of R. campanulatum to climatic variability and to evaluate the relationship of its basal diameter (Groundline) and age using dendroecological methods. Results reveal that the basal diameter was found to be significantly correlated with age (r2= 0.824, p<0.00001). Using the basal diameter age equations, attempts were made to study the age...

The presentation of material in this document and the geographical designations employed do not i... more The presentation of material in this document and the geographical designations employed do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of any of the agencies involved, concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

Ecology and Evolution

Abstract To contain transmission of COVID‐19, lockdowns or strict restrictions of people's mo... more Abstract To contain transmission of COVID‐19, lockdowns or strict restrictions of people's mobility outside their residences were instituted in a majority of countries worldwide, including Nepal, where the first phase of nationwide lockdown was observed from 24 March to 21 July 2020. This sudden halt in human outdoor activities brought positive and negative impacts on forests and wildlife. We undertook a study to learn the impact of the COVID‐19 lockdown on wildlife and forests in the protected areas (PAs) of Nepal. Between July and September 2020, data on illegal activities recorded by the staff of PAs and also those reported by media were collected and analyzed. Key informant interviews (KII) were done with the park officers and security personnel by virtual communication (telephone, messenger app, and video call) to collect detailed information and for corroboration. The collected data were categorized into four groups: (a) wildlife killed, (b) wildlife injured, (c) arrest incidents related to forest crime, and (d) arrest incidents related to wildlife crime. Data from the fiscal year 2019–2020 were analyzed, comparing before lockdown and after. Among 20 PAs investigated during the lockdown, the study found substantial increases in wildlife death in two PAs, Banke National Park, and Bardia National Park. Similarly, Chitwan National Park (CNP) and Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park (SNNP) witnessed a rise in wildlife poaching. CNP and SNNP are located close to densely populated cities and also have human settlements in their peripheries. Wildlife was sighted freely roaming inside PAs during the lockdown, presumably because the absence of visitors and human activities during the lockdown decreased disturbance. Thus, the wildlife was enjoying the freedom of movement on the one hand, and on the other hand was threatened by poachers, many of whom were laid off from other activities and were taking advantage of the lapse in security.