Relationship of topography and soil chemistry with plant richness and distribution in the temperate forest of Chandragiri hill, Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

Abstract Species richness in mountain region is governed by topographic, edaphic and climatic factors. The present study aims to find the relationship of topography and soil chemistry with species richness and distribution in the study area. The study was carried out in the temperate community forest of Chandragiri hill, Central Nepal. Altogether, 35 quadrats of 100 m2 each were established between 1500–2500 m. Quadrats of 10 m × 10 m, 5 m × 5 m and 1 m × 1 m were established for the assessment of trees, shrubs and herbs respectively. Soil was collected from the four corners of the quadrat and mixed to form a composite soil sample. Soil chemical properties were determined in the laboratory. Data analysis was carried out using correlation, generalized linear model and ordination. Altogether, 180 species were recorded from the study site. Among variables studied, soil pH showed statistical significant negative relationship with total species richness and richness of shrubs, herbs and climbers. Richness of herbs and climbers showed statistical significant relation with SOM and TN. Plant species composition on the other hand affected by altitude, pH and TN. The relationship of species richness found to be more prominent to soil than topography of the studied area. However, plant distribution determined both by topography and soil. At the local level, soil heterogeneity is the factor determining species richness. Present study provides information about species richness in the study site and hence can be precious for the development of conservation strategies. In addition, it also helps in prioritizing the site on the basis of biodiversity.