International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) is an open access online peer reviewed international journal that publishes research and review articles in the fields of Computer Science, Neural Networks, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Food Technology, Textile Engineering, Nano Technology & science, Power Electronics, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computational mathematics, Image processing, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, VLSI Testing & Low Power VLSI Design etc.
Diversity and distribution of butterflies in the open and close canopy forest...Innspub Net
Butterflies were sampled in Cadaclan, San Fernando La Union Botanical Garden (LUBG) of North Luzon to provide information on species-level diversity trend and distribution of butterflies on the open and close canopy portion of the dipterocarp forest from 2012-2014 using field transect method Species accumulation curve shows that additional sampling is needed for the possible turnover of species. Butterfly abundance was higher in open canopy forest with a mean individual of 8.14 per 10 meters out of the 814 total individuals. The close canopy forest had only 4.57 mean individuals for the total of 457. Species level diversity was higher in open canopy forest (H’ = 1.957) compared with the closed canopy forest (H’ = 1.933). These results suggest that butterflies prefer open canopy forest or clearing for their plights. Butterfly spatial distribution was uneven in the dipterocarp forest of LUBG with only 6 species of aggregate assemblages and 98 species with random distribution. Get more articles at: http://www.innspub.net/volume-6-number-1-january-2015-jbes/
Climatic variability and spatial distribution of herbaceous fodders in the Su...IJERA Editor
This study focused on future spatial distributions of Andropogon gayanus, Loxodera ledermanii and Alysicarpus
ovalifolius regarding bioclimatic variables in the Sudanian zone of Benin, particularly in the W Biosphere
Reserve (WBR). These species were selected according to their importance for animals feed and the
intensification of exploitation pressure induced change in their natural spatial distribution. Twenty (20)
bioclimatic variables were tested and variables with high auto-correlation values were eliminated. Then, we
retained seven climatic variables for the model. A MaxEnt (Maximum Entropy) method was used to identify all
climatic factors which determined the spatial distribution of the three species. Spatial distribution showed for
Andropogon gayanus, a regression of high area distribution in detriment of low and moderate areas. The same
trend was observed for Loxodera ledermannii spatial distribution. For Alysicarpus ovalifolius, currently area
with moderate and low distribution were the most represented but map showed in 2050 that area with high
distribution increased. We can deduce that without bioclimatic variables, others factors such as: biotic
interactions, dispersion constraints, anthropic pressure, human activities and another historic factor determined
spatial distribution of species. Modeling techniques that require only presence data are therefore extremely
valuable.
A numerical analysis of understory plant associations in a Pinus wallichiana ...Innspub Net
The present investigation describes the structure and vegetation composition of the forest located in Murree Hills, Punjab, Pakistan. The study area is a part of Himalayans moist temperate forest. The vegetation zone entirely consists of shrubs or medium size trees. The plants give the appearance of a vast flower bed, composed principally of herbaceous species. These species are adapted to withstand the extremes of cold and desiccation. Study area range in altitude from 2100m-2300 m (A.S.L.). A total of 65 species, belonging to 62 genera and 39 families were recorded from 40 stands. Angiosperms contributed a major share while Pteridophytes contributed little to the floristic richness of the area. Data were analyzed by multivariate statistics including Cluster Analysis, Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and correlation co-efficient to detect the relations between altitudinal and some environmental factors with composition and structure of the plant communities. DCA axis 1 and axis 2 were used to interpret the data. Four vegetation types were delineated by Cluster Analysis which was then plotted on the first two axes a scattered diagram. The outcome of the cluster was confirmed by using DCA. There were significant differences in the flora composition as well as the edaphic factors along the altitudinal gradient. The results of the present investigation suggest a direct altitudinal and soil chemical factors pH, EC, cations and anions on the vegetation variation. Topography predicts species composition of the study area.
Diversity and distribution of butterflies in the open and close canopy forest...Innspub Net
Butterflies were sampled in Cadaclan, San Fernando La Union Botanical Garden (LUBG) of North Luzon to provide information on species-level diversity trend and distribution of butterflies on the open and close canopy portion of the dipterocarp forest from 2012-2014 using field transect method Species accumulation curve shows that additional sampling is needed for the possible turnover of species. Butterfly abundance was higher in open canopy forest with a mean individual of 8.14 per 10 meters out of the 814 total individuals. The close canopy forest had only 4.57 mean individuals for the total of 457. Species level diversity was higher in open canopy forest (H’ = 1.957) compared with the closed canopy forest (H’ = 1.933). These results suggest that butterflies prefer open canopy forest or clearing for their plights. Butterfly spatial distribution was uneven in the dipterocarp forest of LUBG with only 6 species of aggregate assemblages and 98 species with random distribution. Get more articles at: http://www.innspub.net/volume-6-number-1-january-2015-jbes/
Climatic variability and spatial distribution of herbaceous fodders in the Su...IJERA Editor
This study focused on future spatial distributions of Andropogon gayanus, Loxodera ledermanii and Alysicarpus
ovalifolius regarding bioclimatic variables in the Sudanian zone of Benin, particularly in the W Biosphere
Reserve (WBR). These species were selected according to their importance for animals feed and the
intensification of exploitation pressure induced change in their natural spatial distribution. Twenty (20)
bioclimatic variables were tested and variables with high auto-correlation values were eliminated. Then, we
retained seven climatic variables for the model. A MaxEnt (Maximum Entropy) method was used to identify all
climatic factors which determined the spatial distribution of the three species. Spatial distribution showed for
Andropogon gayanus, a regression of high area distribution in detriment of low and moderate areas. The same
trend was observed for Loxodera ledermannii spatial distribution. For Alysicarpus ovalifolius, currently area
with moderate and low distribution were the most represented but map showed in 2050 that area with high
distribution increased. We can deduce that without bioclimatic variables, others factors such as: biotic
interactions, dispersion constraints, anthropic pressure, human activities and another historic factor determined
spatial distribution of species. Modeling techniques that require only presence data are therefore extremely
valuable.
A numerical analysis of understory plant associations in a Pinus wallichiana ...Innspub Net
The present investigation describes the structure and vegetation composition of the forest located in Murree Hills, Punjab, Pakistan. The study area is a part of Himalayans moist temperate forest. The vegetation zone entirely consists of shrubs or medium size trees. The plants give the appearance of a vast flower bed, composed principally of herbaceous species. These species are adapted to withstand the extremes of cold and desiccation. Study area range in altitude from 2100m-2300 m (A.S.L.). A total of 65 species, belonging to 62 genera and 39 families were recorded from 40 stands. Angiosperms contributed a major share while Pteridophytes contributed little to the floristic richness of the area. Data were analyzed by multivariate statistics including Cluster Analysis, Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and correlation co-efficient to detect the relations between altitudinal and some environmental factors with composition and structure of the plant communities. DCA axis 1 and axis 2 were used to interpret the data. Four vegetation types were delineated by Cluster Analysis which was then plotted on the first two axes a scattered diagram. The outcome of the cluster was confirmed by using DCA. There were significant differences in the flora composition as well as the edaphic factors along the altitudinal gradient. The results of the present investigation suggest a direct altitudinal and soil chemical factors pH, EC, cations and anions on the vegetation variation. Topography predicts species composition of the study area.
Reforestation is one of the Philippines’ government efforts to restore and rehabilitate degraded mangrove ecosystems. Although there is recovery of the ecosystem in terms of vegetation, the recovery of closely-linked faunal species in terms of community structure is still understudied. This research investigates the community structure of mangrove crabs under two different management schemes: protected mangroves and reforested mangroves. The transect-plot method was employed in each management scheme to quantify the vegetation, crab assemblages and environmental variables. Community composition of crabs and mangrove trees were compared between protected and reforested mangroves using non-metric multi-dimensional scaling and analysis of similarity in PRIMER 6. Chi-squared was used to test the variance of sex ration of the crabs. Canonical Correspondence Analysis was used to determine the relationship between crabs and environmental parameters. A total of twelve species of crabs belonging to six families were identified in protected mangroves while only four species were documented in reforested mangroves. Perisesarma indiarum and Baptozius vinosus were the most dominant species in protected and reforested mangrove, respectively. Univariate analysis of variance of crab assemblage data revealed significant differences in crab composition and abundance between protected mangroves and from reforested mangroves (P<0.05).><0.05).Environmental factors and human intervention had contributed to the difference in crab assemblages in mangrove ecosystems.
Growth and increase of a Pinuspatula plantation with fertilization and thinni...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— Thinning and fertilization of forest plantations are forestry practices that are necessary to obtain an increase in the annual volume growth, mean increment and periodic increment (AMI and API) which allow shortening the commercial shift maintaining the same volumes at the time of harvest. In this study, the effect of thinning and fertilization on the growth and increase in Pinuspatula plantations was evaluated, which were established in 1998 in Huayacocotla, Veracruz, Mexico. A 22 factorial experiment was set up in the plantation in order to evaluate the thinning and fertilization factors with two levels each. The experimental unit was a 10x10 m plot. Three repetitions were established per treatment. An residual basal area of 21m2 ha-1was obtained in the thinned plots of the plantation. The average basal area in the unthinned plots was 42 m2 ha-1. The fertilization doses were: 1.4; 0.4; 8.34 kg of urea, calcium triple superphosphate and potassium sulfate, respectively. Fertilization (treatment 3) increased the volume and the AMI 2012, 2013 and 2014. Thinning (treatment 2) tended to increase the API slightly.
Phyto climatic gradient of vegetation and habitat specificity in the high ele...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Phyto-climatic gradient and ecological indicators can be used to understand the requirements, long term management and conservation strategies of natural habitats and species. For this purpose phytosociological attributes were measured using quadrats along transects on different slope aspects across an elevation range of 2450-4400 m. The 198 recorded plant species were placed in five Raunkiaer life form classes among which the Hemicryptophytes (51%) dominate the flora of the study area followed by Phanerophytes and Cryptophytes (Geophytes) with 15 and 13% dominance respectively. Therophytes and Chamaephytes are represented by smaller numbers (12 & 10% each). The phyto-climatic gradient of the vegetation was evaluated using Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Phyto-climatic relationships show that Phanerophytes especially tree species are widely distributed on northern aspect slopes whilst shrubs are more dominant on southern aspect slopes. Woody plants are dominant at lower altitudes (2450-2800 m), with a much smaller proportion occurring at middle elevations (2800-3300 m) whilst higher (3300-3900 m) and highest elevations (3900-4400 m) are dominated mainly by hemi-cryptophytes and cryptophytes. Our findings further elucidate that vegetation changes gradually from moist-cool temperate Phanerophytic and Chamaephytic elements to dry-cold subalpine and alpine herbaceous Cryptophytic and Hemi-cryptophytic vegetation in the upper elevations. Assessment of life forms and ecological gradient provide a basis for more extensive conservation studies on biodiversity in mountain ecosystems. Our findings further advocate that the Naran Valley appears to be at a transitional floristic position bridging the contrasting moist and dry temperate zones of the Sino-Japanese and Irano-Turanian floristic regions.
Comparative study on Population of Earthworms in Different Habitat Types alon...AI Publications
Earthworms are one of the very diverse organisms in the environment. The abundance of the earthworms relates to the different land use, human activity, biotic and abiotic factors on nature. The diversity and abundance of earthworms was studied in different habitats; broadleaved forest, chirpine forest, residential area and agriculture land with the aim to understand the variation in earthworm species in those habitats. Between the altitude 650-1450masl. a total of 20 major plots and 100 sub-plots was made to assess the earthworm diversity in selectedhabitat. Physio-chemical analysis of soil was done to know the diversity, abundance and density of earthworms. The result of study does find two orders, five families and seven species of earthworms. They were Amynthasalexandri, Metaphirehoulleti, Perionyx excavatus, Aporrectodeacalciginosa, Dichogastersp., Pontoscolexcorethrurus and Darwidasp. Broadleaved had the highest diversity with Shannon index of 2.04 and the lowest diversity was found in chirpine forest with Shannon index of 1.6. The highest richness was in the broadleaved forest with index of 0.827. Amynthasalexandri was present in all the habitats and it had the highest relative abundance of 28.12%, relative density of 32.80 per m2 and frequency of 25%. The lowest relative density, abundance and frequency was found in Darwida sp. The analysis of variance showed thatthe NPK content in the soil has effect on the density of earthworm along the altitude. In lower altitude at 650 masl. The density of earthworms was more with a high amount of NPK in soil and in higher altitude at 1450masl. the decrease in NPK showed low earthworm density. Pearson correlation showed a positive correlation with soil Physico-chemical parameters and an abundance of earthworms.
Population Structure and Threats to Sustainable Management of Woody Plant Spe...Innspub Net
This study was conducted to assess population structure and threat to the sustainable management of woody species in the various ago-ecosystems in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area (LGA) Katsina State, Nigeria. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were used to collect data from 21 randomly demarcated 100m × 100m sample plots. All woody plant species found in the sample plots with stem diameter >2 cm at 20cm above ground, were recorded. Population structure was summarized by diameter classes. For the identification of threats, field and questionnaire surveys were used. A total of 50 questionnaires were distributed at ten questionnaires per ward in five out of the 11 wards in the LGA. The highest numbers (350) of small diameter trees (0.1-1.0cm) were recorded in the agrosilvopastoral system. This was followed by silvopastoral and agrisilviculture systems with 89 and 85, respectively. However, the highest number of large diameter woody tree species was recorded in the silvopastoral system followed by agrosilvopastoral and agrisilviculture systems. The regular reverse J-shaped and fairly regular reverse J-shaped size class distribution observed for agrosilvopastoral and silvopastoral respectively, suggest a recuperating population. Over exploitation, debarking, de-branching, root- digging, leaf harvesting, seed harvesting, poor regeneration, slow rate of growth, wind effect and bush burning were the major threats to sustainable management of woody plant species in the study area. The implications of our findings for sustainable management of woody plant species in the study area are discussed and recommendations made.
The influence of the foodscape on quaking aspen stand condition and use by un...AI Publications
In order to study the effects of herbivory on plant communities, we determined whether the types and concentrations of chemicals present in different aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) stands and understories, i.e., the foodscape, are associated with aspen use by elk (Cervus elaphus L.) and with aspen regeneration and recruitment. Transects were established in aspen stands with high, medium, and low regeneration levels (N=5 locations/regeneration level; ranging from 2,331 m to 2,724 m in elevation) in Wolf Creek Ranch in northern Utah. Using non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination and regression analyses, we examined the relationships between aspen regeneration, recruitment, elk presence, browsing, and other landscape elements with the foodscape (e.g., biomass and chemical composition of the understory and chemical defenses of juvenile aspen trees). The foodscape was affected by elevation and canopy height but it did not explain aspen use or indicators of aspen resilience. Our findings suggest that foodscapes of lower nutrient content–occurring at lower elevations under drier climatic conditions–are more likely to foster aspen stands with less forb and grass understory, and thus lower nutritional biomass. Nevertheless, the extent of the decline in the availability of nutrients in the understory did not appear to influence aspen browsing or indicators of aspen resilience. Future research should focus on exploring the influence of additional–and more contrasting–gradients of chemical availability in the landscape on aspen use by herbivores.
THE EFFECTS OF CLEARCUT SIZE ON THE BIRD COMMUNITY IN THE SECOND COLLEGE GRANTjoshmooney
Abstract. This study examines the effects of forest opening (clearcut) size on the surrounding forest-bird community with the objective of offering management suggestions for foresters who employ the clearcut method. I hypothesized that large and small clearcuts would have different effects on the forest-bird assemblage associated with each. I used the point-count method to assess bird abundance in clearcuts, on the edges, and 100 m into the forest from the edges of large and small clearcuts. I found that Neotropical migrant birds and forest-interior birds were the most affected by large clearcuts showing significantly lower abundance in forest areas 100 m from large clearcut edges than in forest areas 100 m from small clearcuts. Edge-open birds were more abundant in large clearcut openings and edges than in small clearcut openings and edges. Blue jays (an avian nest predator) were more abundant on the edges of large clearcuts than on the edges of small clearcuts. A recent study found that forest-interior bird abundance levels off after 100 m distance from small (0.4 ha) forest openings. This result combined with my findings suggest that small openings in the Second College Grant represent less of a disturbance to Neotropical migrants and forest-interior birds. Additionally, given higher abundances of an avian nest predator in large clearcuts, reproductive success could be much lower in areas associated with large clearcuts. Some species such as the White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), however preferred large clearcuts suggesting that there are some benefits to overall bird abundance by including large clearcuts in a managed landscape.
Diversity and abundance of terrestrial mammals in the northern periphery of ...Innspub Net
The Tanoé-Ehy Marsh Forest (TEMF), an unprotected forest that is about to be turn into a voluntary nature reserve is a forest block in south-eastern Côte d’Ivoire known as being of great importance for the conservation of biodiversity. But in the rainy season, that forest is largely over flooded and terrestrial mammals are likely to move to the periphery and make them vulnerable to anthropogenic threats. Our objectives are to determine the diversity, the relative abundance of terrestrial mammals and their spatial distribution in the northern periphery of the TEMF during the rainy season. We collected data by conducting recce surveys after interviews with local people. In total, we obtained 33 species among which ten primates’ species were identified. According to the recce survey, the African Civet (Civettictis civetta) and the Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) are the most common and abundant species in the study area with 12.7% and 12.0% of relative abundance respectively. In addition, six of the listed species are on the IUCN Red List, including Piliocolobus waldronae, a critically endangered species, Cercocebus lunulatus and Cercopithecus roloway endangered species, Colobus vellerosus, Phataginus tetradactyla and Phataginus tricuspis, three vulnerable species. Thus, the consideration of the periphery for the sustainable management of the TEMF is proving to be an imperative.
Climate and potential habitat suitability for cultivation and in situ conserv...Innspub Net
Sustainable management actions are needed for several indigenous agro forestry plant species like the black plum (Vitex doniana Sweet) because they are facing increasing pressures due to the rapid human growth and threats such as climate change. By combining species distribution modelling using the Maximum Entropy Algorithm (Max Ent) and representation gap analysis, this study accessed the impacts of current and future (2050) climates on the potential distribution of Vitex doniana in Benin with insight on the protected areas network (PAN). The model showed a high goodness-of-fit (AUC = 0.92 ± 0.02) and a very good predictive power (TSS = 0.72 ± 0.01). Our findings indicated annual mean rainfall, annual mean diurnal range of temperature and mean temperature of the driest quarter as the most important predictors driving the distribution of V. doniana. Under current climate, about 85 % of Benin area is potentially suitable for its cultivation. This potential suitable area is projected to increase by 3 to 12 % under future climatic conditions. A large proportion (76.28 %) of the national PAN was reported as potentially suitable for the conservation of the species under current climate with increase projections of 14 to 23 % under future climate. The study showed that V. doniana can be cultivated in several areas of Benin and that the PAN is potentially suitable for its conservation. These findings highlighted some of the opportunities of integrating V. doniana in the formal production systems of Benin and also its potentialities in ecosystems restoration under the changing climate. Get the full articles at: http://www.innspub.net/ijaar/climate-and-potential-habitat-suitability-for-cultivation-and-in-situ-conservation-of-the-black-plum-vitex-doniana-sweet-in-benin-west-africa/
Reforestation is one of the Philippines’ government efforts to restore and rehabilitate degraded mangrove ecosystems. Although there is recovery of the ecosystem in terms of vegetation, the recovery of closely-linked faunal species in terms of community structure is still understudied. This research investigates the community structure of mangrove crabs under two different management schemes: protected mangroves and reforested mangroves. The transect-plot method was employed in each management scheme to quantify the vegetation, crab assemblages and environmental variables. Community composition of crabs and mangrove trees were compared between protected and reforested mangroves using non-metric multi-dimensional scaling and analysis of similarity in PRIMER 6. Chi-squared was used to test the variance of sex ration of the crabs. Canonical Correspondence Analysis was used to determine the relationship between crabs and environmental parameters. A total of twelve species of crabs belonging to six families were identified in protected mangroves while only four species were documented in reforested mangroves. Perisesarma indiarum and Baptozius vinosus were the most dominant species in protected and reforested mangrove, respectively. Univariate analysis of variance of crab assemblage data revealed significant differences in crab composition and abundance between protected mangroves and from reforested mangroves (P<0.05).><0.05).Environmental factors and human intervention had contributed to the difference in crab assemblages in mangrove ecosystems.
Growth and increase of a Pinuspatula plantation with fertilization and thinni...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— Thinning and fertilization of forest plantations are forestry practices that are necessary to obtain an increase in the annual volume growth, mean increment and periodic increment (AMI and API) which allow shortening the commercial shift maintaining the same volumes at the time of harvest. In this study, the effect of thinning and fertilization on the growth and increase in Pinuspatula plantations was evaluated, which were established in 1998 in Huayacocotla, Veracruz, Mexico. A 22 factorial experiment was set up in the plantation in order to evaluate the thinning and fertilization factors with two levels each. The experimental unit was a 10x10 m plot. Three repetitions were established per treatment. An residual basal area of 21m2 ha-1was obtained in the thinned plots of the plantation. The average basal area in the unthinned plots was 42 m2 ha-1. The fertilization doses were: 1.4; 0.4; 8.34 kg of urea, calcium triple superphosphate and potassium sulfate, respectively. Fertilization (treatment 3) increased the volume and the AMI 2012, 2013 and 2014. Thinning (treatment 2) tended to increase the API slightly.
Phyto climatic gradient of vegetation and habitat specificity in the high ele...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Phyto-climatic gradient and ecological indicators can be used to understand the requirements, long term management and conservation strategies of natural habitats and species. For this purpose phytosociological attributes were measured using quadrats along transects on different slope aspects across an elevation range of 2450-4400 m. The 198 recorded plant species were placed in five Raunkiaer life form classes among which the Hemicryptophytes (51%) dominate the flora of the study area followed by Phanerophytes and Cryptophytes (Geophytes) with 15 and 13% dominance respectively. Therophytes and Chamaephytes are represented by smaller numbers (12 & 10% each). The phyto-climatic gradient of the vegetation was evaluated using Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Phyto-climatic relationships show that Phanerophytes especially tree species are widely distributed on northern aspect slopes whilst shrubs are more dominant on southern aspect slopes. Woody plants are dominant at lower altitudes (2450-2800 m), with a much smaller proportion occurring at middle elevations (2800-3300 m) whilst higher (3300-3900 m) and highest elevations (3900-4400 m) are dominated mainly by hemi-cryptophytes and cryptophytes. Our findings further elucidate that vegetation changes gradually from moist-cool temperate Phanerophytic and Chamaephytic elements to dry-cold subalpine and alpine herbaceous Cryptophytic and Hemi-cryptophytic vegetation in the upper elevations. Assessment of life forms and ecological gradient provide a basis for more extensive conservation studies on biodiversity in mountain ecosystems. Our findings further advocate that the Naran Valley appears to be at a transitional floristic position bridging the contrasting moist and dry temperate zones of the Sino-Japanese and Irano-Turanian floristic regions.
Comparative study on Population of Earthworms in Different Habitat Types alon...AI Publications
Earthworms are one of the very diverse organisms in the environment. The abundance of the earthworms relates to the different land use, human activity, biotic and abiotic factors on nature. The diversity and abundance of earthworms was studied in different habitats; broadleaved forest, chirpine forest, residential area and agriculture land with the aim to understand the variation in earthworm species in those habitats. Between the altitude 650-1450masl. a total of 20 major plots and 100 sub-plots was made to assess the earthworm diversity in selectedhabitat. Physio-chemical analysis of soil was done to know the diversity, abundance and density of earthworms. The result of study does find two orders, five families and seven species of earthworms. They were Amynthasalexandri, Metaphirehoulleti, Perionyx excavatus, Aporrectodeacalciginosa, Dichogastersp., Pontoscolexcorethrurus and Darwidasp. Broadleaved had the highest diversity with Shannon index of 2.04 and the lowest diversity was found in chirpine forest with Shannon index of 1.6. The highest richness was in the broadleaved forest with index of 0.827. Amynthasalexandri was present in all the habitats and it had the highest relative abundance of 28.12%, relative density of 32.80 per m2 and frequency of 25%. The lowest relative density, abundance and frequency was found in Darwida sp. The analysis of variance showed thatthe NPK content in the soil has effect on the density of earthworm along the altitude. In lower altitude at 650 masl. The density of earthworms was more with a high amount of NPK in soil and in higher altitude at 1450masl. the decrease in NPK showed low earthworm density. Pearson correlation showed a positive correlation with soil Physico-chemical parameters and an abundance of earthworms.
Population Structure and Threats to Sustainable Management of Woody Plant Spe...Innspub Net
This study was conducted to assess population structure and threat to the sustainable management of woody species in the various ago-ecosystems in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area (LGA) Katsina State, Nigeria. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were used to collect data from 21 randomly demarcated 100m × 100m sample plots. All woody plant species found in the sample plots with stem diameter >2 cm at 20cm above ground, were recorded. Population structure was summarized by diameter classes. For the identification of threats, field and questionnaire surveys were used. A total of 50 questionnaires were distributed at ten questionnaires per ward in five out of the 11 wards in the LGA. The highest numbers (350) of small diameter trees (0.1-1.0cm) were recorded in the agrosilvopastoral system. This was followed by silvopastoral and agrisilviculture systems with 89 and 85, respectively. However, the highest number of large diameter woody tree species was recorded in the silvopastoral system followed by agrosilvopastoral and agrisilviculture systems. The regular reverse J-shaped and fairly regular reverse J-shaped size class distribution observed for agrosilvopastoral and silvopastoral respectively, suggest a recuperating population. Over exploitation, debarking, de-branching, root- digging, leaf harvesting, seed harvesting, poor regeneration, slow rate of growth, wind effect and bush burning were the major threats to sustainable management of woody plant species in the study area. The implications of our findings for sustainable management of woody plant species in the study area are discussed and recommendations made.
The influence of the foodscape on quaking aspen stand condition and use by un...AI Publications
In order to study the effects of herbivory on plant communities, we determined whether the types and concentrations of chemicals present in different aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) stands and understories, i.e., the foodscape, are associated with aspen use by elk (Cervus elaphus L.) and with aspen regeneration and recruitment. Transects were established in aspen stands with high, medium, and low regeneration levels (N=5 locations/regeneration level; ranging from 2,331 m to 2,724 m in elevation) in Wolf Creek Ranch in northern Utah. Using non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination and regression analyses, we examined the relationships between aspen regeneration, recruitment, elk presence, browsing, and other landscape elements with the foodscape (e.g., biomass and chemical composition of the understory and chemical defenses of juvenile aspen trees). The foodscape was affected by elevation and canopy height but it did not explain aspen use or indicators of aspen resilience. Our findings suggest that foodscapes of lower nutrient content–occurring at lower elevations under drier climatic conditions–are more likely to foster aspen stands with less forb and grass understory, and thus lower nutritional biomass. Nevertheless, the extent of the decline in the availability of nutrients in the understory did not appear to influence aspen browsing or indicators of aspen resilience. Future research should focus on exploring the influence of additional–and more contrasting–gradients of chemical availability in the landscape on aspen use by herbivores.
THE EFFECTS OF CLEARCUT SIZE ON THE BIRD COMMUNITY IN THE SECOND COLLEGE GRANTjoshmooney
Abstract. This study examines the effects of forest opening (clearcut) size on the surrounding forest-bird community with the objective of offering management suggestions for foresters who employ the clearcut method. I hypothesized that large and small clearcuts would have different effects on the forest-bird assemblage associated with each. I used the point-count method to assess bird abundance in clearcuts, on the edges, and 100 m into the forest from the edges of large and small clearcuts. I found that Neotropical migrant birds and forest-interior birds were the most affected by large clearcuts showing significantly lower abundance in forest areas 100 m from large clearcut edges than in forest areas 100 m from small clearcuts. Edge-open birds were more abundant in large clearcut openings and edges than in small clearcut openings and edges. Blue jays (an avian nest predator) were more abundant on the edges of large clearcuts than on the edges of small clearcuts. A recent study found that forest-interior bird abundance levels off after 100 m distance from small (0.4 ha) forest openings. This result combined with my findings suggest that small openings in the Second College Grant represent less of a disturbance to Neotropical migrants and forest-interior birds. Additionally, given higher abundances of an avian nest predator in large clearcuts, reproductive success could be much lower in areas associated with large clearcuts. Some species such as the White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), however preferred large clearcuts suggesting that there are some benefits to overall bird abundance by including large clearcuts in a managed landscape.
Diversity and abundance of terrestrial mammals in the northern periphery of ...Innspub Net
The Tanoé-Ehy Marsh Forest (TEMF), an unprotected forest that is about to be turn into a voluntary nature reserve is a forest block in south-eastern Côte d’Ivoire known as being of great importance for the conservation of biodiversity. But in the rainy season, that forest is largely over flooded and terrestrial mammals are likely to move to the periphery and make them vulnerable to anthropogenic threats. Our objectives are to determine the diversity, the relative abundance of terrestrial mammals and their spatial distribution in the northern periphery of the TEMF during the rainy season. We collected data by conducting recce surveys after interviews with local people. In total, we obtained 33 species among which ten primates’ species were identified. According to the recce survey, the African Civet (Civettictis civetta) and the Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) are the most common and abundant species in the study area with 12.7% and 12.0% of relative abundance respectively. In addition, six of the listed species are on the IUCN Red List, including Piliocolobus waldronae, a critically endangered species, Cercocebus lunulatus and Cercopithecus roloway endangered species, Colobus vellerosus, Phataginus tetradactyla and Phataginus tricuspis, three vulnerable species. Thus, the consideration of the periphery for the sustainable management of the TEMF is proving to be an imperative.
Climate and potential habitat suitability for cultivation and in situ conserv...Innspub Net
Sustainable management actions are needed for several indigenous agro forestry plant species like the black plum (Vitex doniana Sweet) because they are facing increasing pressures due to the rapid human growth and threats such as climate change. By combining species distribution modelling using the Maximum Entropy Algorithm (Max Ent) and representation gap analysis, this study accessed the impacts of current and future (2050) climates on the potential distribution of Vitex doniana in Benin with insight on the protected areas network (PAN). The model showed a high goodness-of-fit (AUC = 0.92 ± 0.02) and a very good predictive power (TSS = 0.72 ± 0.01). Our findings indicated annual mean rainfall, annual mean diurnal range of temperature and mean temperature of the driest quarter as the most important predictors driving the distribution of V. doniana. Under current climate, about 85 % of Benin area is potentially suitable for its cultivation. This potential suitable area is projected to increase by 3 to 12 % under future climatic conditions. A large proportion (76.28 %) of the national PAN was reported as potentially suitable for the conservation of the species under current climate with increase projections of 14 to 23 % under future climate. The study showed that V. doniana can be cultivated in several areas of Benin and that the PAN is potentially suitable for its conservation. These findings highlighted some of the opportunities of integrating V. doniana in the formal production systems of Benin and also its potentialities in ecosystems restoration under the changing climate. Get the full articles at: http://www.innspub.net/ijaar/climate-and-potential-habitat-suitability-for-cultivation-and-in-situ-conservation-of-the-black-plum-vitex-doniana-sweet-in-benin-west-africa/
Gave a talk at StartCon about the future of Growth. I touch on viral marketing / referral marketing, fake news and social media, and marketplaces. Finally, the slides go through future technology platforms and how things might evolve there.
The Six Highest Performing B2B Blog Post FormatsBarry Feldman
If your B2B blogging goals include earning social media shares and backlinks to boost your search rankings, this infographic lists the size best approaches.
Each technological age has been marked by a shift in how the industrial platform enables companies to rethink their business processes and create wealth. In the talk I argue that we are limiting our view of what this next industrial/digital age can offer because of how we read, measure and through that perceive the world (how we cherry pick data). Companies are locked in metrics and quantitative measures, data that can fit into a spreadsheet. And by that they see the digital transformation merely as an efficiency tool to the fossil fuel age. But we need to stretch further…
32 Ways a Digital Marketing Consultant Can Help Grow Your BusinessBarry Feldman
How can a digital marketing consultant help your business? In this resource we'll count the ways. 24 additional marketing resources are bundled for free.
Eco-floristic studies of the Beer Hills along the Indus River in the district...Shujaul Mulk Khan
The present study was conducted to elaborate vegetation composition structure to analyze role of edaphic and topographic factors on plant species distribution and community formation during 2013–14. A mixture of quadrat and transect methods were used. The size of quadrat for trees shrubs and herbs were 10 × 5, 5 × 2, 1 × 1 meter square respectively. Different phytosociological attribute were measured at each station. Primary results reported 123 plant species belong to 46 families. Asteraceae and Lamiaceae were dominant families with 8 species each. PCORD version 5 were used for Cluster and Two Way Cluster Analyses that initiated 4 plant communities within elevation range of 529–700 m from sea level. Indicator species analyses (ISA) were used to identify indicator species of each community. CANOCO Software (version 4.5) was used to measure the influence of edaphic and topographic variables on species composition, diversity and community formation. Whereas Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was used to measure the effect of environmental variables which showed elevation and aspect were the stronger environmental variable among topographic and CaCO3 contents, electric conductivity, soil pH were the stronger edaphic factors in determination of vegetation and communities of the Bheer Hills. Grazing pressure was one of the main anthropogenic factors in this regard.
Plant species and communities assessment in interaction with edaphic and topo...Shujaul Mulk Khan
The current analyses of vegetation were aimed to study the different effects of environmental variables on plant species and communities and their combined interactions to these variables, identified threats to local vegetation and suggestion for remedial measures in the Mount Eelum, Swat, Pakistan. For assessment of environmental variability quantitative ecological techniques were used through quadrats having sizes of 2 × 2, 5 × 5 and 10 × 10 m2 for herbs, shrubs and trees respectively. Result of the present study revealed 124 plant species in the study area. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was used to analyze the ecological gradient of vegetation. The environmental data and species abundance were used in CANOCO software version 4.5. The presence absence data of plant species were elaborated with Cluster and Two Way Cluster Analysis techniques using PC-ORD version 5 to show different species composition that resulted in five plant communities. Findings indicate that elevation, aspect and soil texture are the strongest variables that have significant effect on species composition and distribution of various communities shown with P value 0.0500. It is recommended to protect and use sensibly whole of the Flora normally and rare species particularly in the region.
Ethno-ecological importance of plant biodiversity in mountain ecosystems with...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Mountain ecosystems support a high biological diversity and a large number of endangered plant species
many of which are ecological indicators of those specific habitats. The Himalayas are the world’s youngest,
highest and largest mountain range and support a high plant biodiversity. People living in this region
use their traditional ecological knowledge to utilize local natural resources and hence have valuable
understanding about their surroundings. Many areas within this region still remain poorly known for
their floristic diversity, plant species distribution and vegetation ecosystem services, yet the indigenous
people depend heavily upon local plant resources and, through unsustainable use, can cause an
irreversible loss of plant species. The valley used in this study is typical of such areas and occupies
a distinctive geographical location on the edge of the western Himalayan range, close to the Hindu
Kush range to the west and the Karakorum Mountains to the north. It is also located on geological
and climatic divides, which further add to its ecological interest. This paper focuses on (i) identification
of ecological indicators at various elevation zones across an altitudinal range of 2450–4100 m and
(ii) recognition of social perceptions of plant species populations based on the ecosystem services that
they provide. We used robust approaches to identify the plant indicator species of various elevation
zones. Using phytosociological techniques, Importance Values (IVs) for each plant species were calculated.
The statistical package PCORDS was used to evaluate the species area curves and indicator species
for each elevation zone. Data attribute plots derived from Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) using
CANOCO were deployed to illustrate the location of indicator species in each habitat type. Furthermore,
the social perceptions of the local inhabitants as to whether the populations of the recorded species
were increasing or decreasing over the recent past were recorded. We argue that the assessment of
ecological indicators combined with the ecological knowledge of the indigenous population can assist
in developing priorities for local and regional conservation strategies, especially for fragile mountain
ecosystems.
Species diversity and functional groups of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in ...Innspub Net
Ants play a vital role in various ecological processes in the ecosystem. They are involved in nutrient cycling, soil aeration, seed dispersal, and indicator of habitat condition. The study was conducted to determine the species diversity and functional group composition of ants near the residential area and agro-ecosystem of Mt. Agad-agad, Brgy. Puga-an, Iligan City, Philippines. Ants were collected using baits and hand collecting to sample ants. A total of 4,047 individuals belonging to four subfamilies, 17 genera, and 23 species were documented in the two sampling sites. Species diversity was recorded highest in agro-ecosystem with H’=2.74 and species richness of 3.96. Also, five invasive species, including Paratrechina longicornis was recorded in both sampling sites. The most abundant functional group was Generalized Myrmicinae (36%) near the residential area, while Subordinate Camponotini (29%) in Agro-ecosystem. The result suggests that existing land-use influences species and functional group composition of ants, and the presence of invasive species indicates the magnitude of anthropogenic disturbances in the area.
Species and Community Diversity of Vascular Flora along Environmental Gradien...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of floristic diversity at species level along environmental gradients were measured using a randomly stratified design for identifying major plant communities of Narran Valley, Pakistan. Data was collected at 144 sampling stations along 24 altitudinal transects, 12 each at southern and northern aspects. Altitudinal range transects was within the limits of 2450 to 4100 masl. Some 198 species belonging to 68 families were indentified along transects. The Two Way Cluster Analysis (TWCA) and Indicator Species Analysis (ISA) recognized 5 plant communities with significant indicator species. The communities generally showed an elevation-latitudinal gradient complex from inclined, mesic-cool temperate vegetation of Phenerophytes and Chamaephytes, to more dry cold subalpine and alpine herbaceous vegetation of Cryptophytes and Therophytes. ISA analysis revealed that the mountain aspect, altitude from the sea level and soil depth were the strongest environmental variables (p ≤ 0.05) for determining the community structure. Species diversity was optimum at the middle altitudes (2800-3400 masl) as compared to either the lower or higher altitudes. Herbaceous vegetation had positive correlation with altitude as a function of eco-physiological pressures as generally observed on like other highly elevated peaks Himalayas.
Diversity of Soil Fauna and Ecosystem Function tariqulmasud12
Soils are natural resources of utmost. Importance for a number of ecosystem and biosphere processes such as plant production, cycling of organic matter and nutrients, storage of C and water, and release of nitrous oxides, CO2 and methane. Soil degradation, through various processes, is a matter of great concern, since their integrity is absolutely critical to increasing food production (FAO, 1995), and regulating atmospheric fluxes of greenhouse gases (Jenkinson, 199 1 ; Wallace, 1994).
The Role of Soil Organisms and Functions in different Coconut based Multiple ...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract—Sampling was done in wet and intermediate zones represented by the Walpita and Makandura research centers, respectively. Eleven land use systems were considered for the study; coconut mono culture (CM), bare land (BL) and coconut multiple cropping. Under coconut multiple cropping, nine different intercrops were selected separately for each zones. The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates (n = 3). The experiment was conducted under mature baring coconut (>20 years) plantation. Soil Macrofauna was sampled using one transect with three replicates at each land use type using quadrate size (30×30cm) from 0-30 cm depth and visible organisms were handpicked and preserved in 75% alcohol. Dilute plate technique and Spread plate technique was used to determine the soil micro organisms’ density. Those techniques were used to cultivate the fungi and bacteria under 〖10〗^(-2) and 〖10〗^(-5) dilution level respectively.
Research identified 12 classes (Crusteacea, Oligochaeta, Hirudinea, Gastropoda, Acarina, Araneida, Scopionida, Chilapoda, Diplopoda, Amphibia, Reptelia) and 14 orders (Hemiptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Thysanura, Hymenoptera, Lepidotera, Orthoptera, Blattaria, Mantodea, Phasmida, Dermaptera, Isoptera, Siphonaptera, Thysanoptera) of soil organisms. Class insecta shows the high diversity with 14 orders. Colony forming unit (CFU) value of bacteria was higher than that of the fungi value. Findings of intermediate and wet zones’ studies suggested that coconut multiple cropping systems may have high diversity, abundance and functional role of soil organisms. Both zones studies suggested that coconut multiple cropping systems may increase soil moisture factor, respiration rate, biomass carbon content, organic carbon percentage, total nitrogen content, organic matter content and C:N ratio in 0-30cm depth other than the coconut monoculture systems. Overall data of two different zones indicated a significant positive correlation of soil organism diversity, abundance and their functional role with cropping systems. Those data can be used as a reliable basic bio indicator for payments for ecosystem services (PES). It supports to valorize the economic value of the ecological services returned by soil organisms.
Population dynamics of ground dwelling spider genera among mustard cropInnspub Net
The present study was designed to record the distribution of ground dwelling spider genera among mustard crop at Okara district. Sampling was made from Brassica compestris crop through pitfall traps. Equal number of traps were placed in three rows e.g. along the boundary, middle of the field and centre of the field. Each trap was filled with mixture solution of alcohol and glycerin (70:30%) along with few drops of kerosene oil. After 5 days interval sample traps was collected and spider specimens were washed with distilled water and permanently stored in labeled glass vials, and brought into the Pest Control Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. Thereafter, each spider specimen was identified according to the taxonomic material and internet source. Identified data was analyzed statistically to quantify their spatial distribution. Maximum spatial distribution of spider population was documented in middle transect than boundary and centre of the mustard crop. It was also observed that temperature, humidity and prey availability were the major factors that effecting the spider population. Population variations were recorded during the months of February, March and April in 2015, due to rise of temperature, decrease of humidity and availability of prey. Conclusively, spiders have some correlation with suitable local conditions or habitat. More over, spiders are cost effective, functionally significant and play important role in regulating decomposer population. Get the full articles at: http://www.innspub.net/jbes/population-dynamics-of-ground-dwelling-spider-genera-among-mustard-crop/
The present study aims to investigate the biodiversity of woody vegetation along a gradient of human impacting region in the three constituent parts of Ferlo Biosphere Reserve (FBR): the core area, the buffer zone and the transition area. We conducted an inventory of 110 plots of 900 m² each. Total species richness was 49 species distributed in 32 genera within 16 botanical families. The analysis of contesimal frequency showed that Guiera senegalensis is the most common species with a presence of 75% of such records. Examination of species abundance spectrum showed that four most abundant species such as Guiera senegalensis (29.5%), Combretum glutinosum (15.9%), Pterocarpus lucens (11.6%) and Boscia senegalensis (10 , 5%). These four species represent 68% of the total individuals of the RBF and are also the four most common species. The spectrum of abundance of families showed that Combretaceae is the best represented family with almost half of the number of species (49.7%). The representativeness of biological types and geographical affinity of the species has been established for the woody vegetation in the study area. The study of diversity indices revealed that the buffer zone and the transition area are subjected to multiple uses and experiencing human action. It has a greater diversity and a level of organization with higher timber stand than the central area which is an integral conservation zone.
Vegetation mapping and multivariate approach to indicator species of a forest...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Abstract
Questions
Does the plant species composition of Thandiani sub Forests Division (TsFD) correlate with edaphic, topographic and climatic variables? Is it possible to identify different plant communities in relation to environmental gradients with special emphasis on indicator species? Can this approach to vegetation classification support conservation planning?
Location
Thandiani sub Forests Division, Western Himalayas.
Methods
Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of species along with environmental variables were measured using a randomly stratified design to identify the major plant communities and indicator species of the Thandiani sub Forests Division. Species composition was recorded in 10 × 2.5 × 2 and 0.5 × 0.5 m square plots for trees, shrubs and herbs, respectively. GPS, edaphic and topographic data were also recorded for each sample plot. A total of 1500 quadrats were established in 50 sampling stations along eight altitudinal transects encompassing eastern, western, northern and southern aspects (slopes). The altitudinal range of the study area was 1290 m to 2626 m above sea level using. The relationships between species composition and environmental variables were analyzed using Two Way Cluster Analysis (TWCA) and Indicator Species Analysis (ISA) via PCORD version 5.
Results
A total of 252 plant species belonging to 97 families were identified. TWCA and ISA recognized five plant communities. ISA additionally revealed that mountain slope aspect, soil pH and soil electrical conductivity were the strongest environmental factors (p ≤ 0.05) determining plant community composition and indicator species in each habitat. The results also show the strength of the environment-species relationship using Monte Carlo procedures.
Conclusions
An analysis of vegetation along an environmental gradient in the Thandiani sub Forests Division using the Braun-Blanquet approach confirmed by robust tools of multivariate statistics identified indicators of each sort of microclimatic zones/vegetation communities which could further be used in conservation planning and management not only in the area studied but in the adjacent regions exhibit similar sort of environmental conditions.
Ecological assessment of plant communities in the peochar valley of the hindu...Shujaul Mulk Khan
This study quantified the effect of environmental variables on plant species composition in the Peochar Valley, located in the Hindu Raj mountains of the Hindu Kush. A mixture of quadrat and transect methods were used. Quadrat sizes were 10 × 10 m, 2 × 5 m, and 1 m2 for trees, shrubs, and herbs, respectively, determined using the minimal area method. Twenty-seven stations were established along 6 elevation transects on slopes with various aspects. Density, cover, and frequency were recorded for all species in each quadrat. Aspect, elevation, rock types, soil nature, and grazing pressure were also considered as edaphic and topographic variables. Preliminary results showed that the Peochar Valley hosts 120 species. Presence/absence data for these species were analyzed with cluster and 2-way cluster techniques to elaborate species composition in the study area; this resulted in 4 plant communities. Species abundance and environmental data matrices were developed to evaluate the ecological gradient of vegetation through canonical correspondence analysis. Of the environmental variables, elevation, aspect, grazing pressure, soil depth, and rock type showed a significant effect on species composition and diversity. We also identified the dominant and rare plant species in each plant community based on their low importance value indexes. Conservation measures are recommended for all flora of this valley and for rare species in particular.
Structural diversity and nutrient recycling potentials of three selected agro...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— Homegardens in Kerala mimic forest ecosystems on account of the tree components included and are agroforestry systems that integrate different agricultural crops and enterprises as per the needs and interests of the farm family. Analysis of the structural diversity and nutrient recycling potentials of three agroforestry homegardens in southern Kerala revealed multi-tier cropping patterns with cropping intensities ranging from 177.18 to 187.04%. Two of the homegardens included livestock components adding to the nutritional security of the family. Diversity indices were in the order 0.92, 1.53 and 0.86. The quantum of litter fall varied with the tree canopies and species, amounting to 473.6, 425.37 and 345.11 kg adding 7.02, 7.517 and 5.165 kg NPK annually in the three homegardens. Maximum nutrient additions were recorded for nitrogen and potassium and least for phosphorus.
Nature GeNetics VOLUME 46 NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2014 1 0 8 9.docxgemaherd
Nature GeNetics VOLUME 46 | NUMBER 10 | OCTOBER 2014 1 0 8 9
A suite of forces and factors, including mutation, recombination,
selection, population history and gene duplication influence patterns
of intraspecific genetic variation. Distinguishing which factors have
shaped sequence variation across a genome requires extensive whole-
genome sequencing of multiple individuals, which has only recently
become tractable1. Most large-scale whole-genome resequencing
studies have focused on model and domesticated species1–5. However,
extensive sequencing of natural populations holds great promise for
advancing understanding of evolutionary biology, including identify-
ing functional variation and the molecular bases of adaptation. Recent
work in a number of species has identified genomic regions that show
signatures of positive selection, suggesting that such regions contain
loci that control adaptive traits4,6–8. Relatively few studies, however,
have combined genome-wide scans with phenotypic data to determine
whether computationally identified selected regions influence adap-
tive phenotypic variation5,9–13. Genome-wide studies of large natural
populations combined with phenotypic measurements are necessary
to determine which factors shape patterns of genetic variation within
species and, therefore, enhance understanding of adaptation.
With large geographic ranges spanning wide environmental gradi-
ents and a long history of research showing local adaptation14, forest
trees are ideal for examining the processes shaping genetic variation
in natural populations. Forest trees cover approximately 30% of ter-
restrial land area15, provide direct feedback to global climate15 and
are often foundation species that organize entire biotic communities
and biogeochemical systems16,17. Clearly, biotic and abiotic interac-
tions have influenced population sizes and distributions of forest
trees, leaving diagnostic signatures in the genomes of present-day
populations14,18,19. A deeper understanding of the evolutionary and
ecological forces that shaped these patterns will offer insights and
options for ecosystem management, applied tree improvement and
accelerated domestication efforts20.
Black cottonwood, Populus trichocarpa Torr. & Gray, is a dominant
riparian tree that has become a model for the advancement of genome-
level insights in forest trees21. The sequencing of 16 P. trichocarpa
genomes revealed widespread patterns of linkage disequilibrium (LD)
and population structure22 and extensive genecological studies have
revealed a high degree of adaptive phenotypic variation in growth,
vegetative phenology and physiological traits such as water-use effi-
ciency and photosynthesis23–25, suggesting that local adaptation is
prevalent. To date, candidate gene–association analyses have revealed
loci with significant effects on phenotypic traits26,27. However, thus
far there have been no publications describing whole-genome asso-
.
Nature GeNetics VOLUME 46 NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2014 1 0 8 9.docxvannagoforth
Nature GeNetics VOLUME 46 | NUMBER 10 | OCTOBER 2014 1 0 8 9
A suite of forces and factors, including mutation, recombination,
selection, population history and gene duplication influence patterns
of intraspecific genetic variation. Distinguishing which factors have
shaped sequence variation across a genome requires extensive whole-
genome sequencing of multiple individuals, which has only recently
become tractable1. Most large-scale whole-genome resequencing
studies have focused on model and domesticated species1–5. However,
extensive sequencing of natural populations holds great promise for
advancing understanding of evolutionary biology, including identify-
ing functional variation and the molecular bases of adaptation. Recent
work in a number of species has identified genomic regions that show
signatures of positive selection, suggesting that such regions contain
loci that control adaptive traits4,6–8. Relatively few studies, however,
have combined genome-wide scans with phenotypic data to determine
whether computationally identified selected regions influence adap-
tive phenotypic variation5,9–13. Genome-wide studies of large natural
populations combined with phenotypic measurements are necessary
to determine which factors shape patterns of genetic variation within
species and, therefore, enhance understanding of adaptation.
With large geographic ranges spanning wide environmental gradi-
ents and a long history of research showing local adaptation14, forest
trees are ideal for examining the processes shaping genetic variation
in natural populations. Forest trees cover approximately 30% of ter-
restrial land area15, provide direct feedback to global climate15 and
are often foundation species that organize entire biotic communities
and biogeochemical systems16,17. Clearly, biotic and abiotic interac-
tions have influenced population sizes and distributions of forest
trees, leaving diagnostic signatures in the genomes of present-day
populations14,18,19. A deeper understanding of the evolutionary and
ecological forces that shaped these patterns will offer insights and
options for ecosystem management, applied tree improvement and
accelerated domestication efforts20.
Black cottonwood, Populus trichocarpa Torr. & Gray, is a dominant
riparian tree that has become a model for the advancement of genome-
level insights in forest trees21. The sequencing of 16 P. trichocarpa
genomes revealed widespread patterns of linkage disequilibrium (LD)
and population structure22 and extensive genecological studies have
revealed a high degree of adaptive phenotypic variation in growth,
vegetative phenology and physiological traits such as water-use effi-
ciency and photosynthesis23–25, suggesting that local adaptation is
prevalent. To date, candidate gene–association analyses have revealed
loci with significant effects on phenotypic traits26,27. However, thus
far there have been no publications describing whole-genome asso-
...
Phytogeographic analysis and diversity of grasses and sedgesShujaul Mulk Khan
The monocot order Poales is one of the largest (ca. 20,000 species), and economically and ecologically most important group of flowering plants. Exploring this important component of the biodiversity is of paramount significance in conservation of species and developing climate change models. Northern Pakistan occupies a unique biogeographic position at the summit of the planet’s three highest mountain ranges i.e.Himalaya, Hindukush and Karakurum.These ranges contain the hot spots of floral and faunal diversity with high proportions of endemic and rare species.The studies revealed 117 species belonging to 30 genera in three families of the order Poales. Juncaceae is represented by single genus Juncuswith four species, Cyperaceae by 5 genera and 27 species, and Poaceae being the dominant family with 25 genera and 86 species. Carexand Poaare the largest genera having 21 and 16 species respectively. Phytogeographic analysis of the Poalesof temperate and alpine regions of Northern Pakistan shows twelve different phytogeographic elements. The highest percentage of species (30%) belongs to the western Himalayan floristic region (near endemics), with cosmopolitan elements (19%), Central Asian elements (17%) and Eurasian elements (12%) being the other significant elements. The proportion of Endemic species (8%) is less apparent, while the rest of the seven categories are poorly represented. The Two Way Cluster Analysis (TWCA) divided the sixteen districts into two major groups, and four subgroups based on environmental gradients of altitude, latitude and longitude. TWCA classified the data matrix including 114 species into seven clusters based on presence/absence data and elevation from mean sea level. Species in each cluster can be attributed to similar habitat conditions and altitudinal ranges. Hence it is clear that climatic characters associated with each category control the species distribution pattern.
LF Energy Webinar: Electrical Grid Modelling and Simulation Through PowSyBl -...DanBrown980551
Do you want to learn how to model and simulate an electrical network from scratch in under an hour?
Then welcome to this PowSyBl workshop, hosted by Rte, the French Transmission System Operator (TSO)!
During the webinar, you will discover the PowSyBl ecosystem as well as handle and study an electrical network through an interactive Python notebook.
PowSyBl is an open source project hosted by LF Energy, which offers a comprehensive set of features for electrical grid modelling and simulation. Among other advanced features, PowSyBl provides:
- A fully editable and extendable library for grid component modelling;
- Visualization tools to display your network;
- Grid simulation tools, such as power flows, security analyses (with or without remedial actions) and sensitivity analyses;
The framework is mostly written in Java, with a Python binding so that Python developers can access PowSyBl functionalities as well.
What you will learn during the webinar:
- For beginners: discover PowSyBl's functionalities through a quick general presentation and the notebook, without needing any expert coding skills;
- For advanced developers: master the skills to efficiently apply PowSyBl functionalities to your real-world scenarios.
Essentials of Automations: Optimizing FME Workflows with ParametersSafe Software
Are you looking to streamline your workflows and boost your projects’ efficiency? Do you find yourself searching for ways to add flexibility and control over your FME workflows? If so, you’re in the right place.
Join us for an insightful dive into the world of FME parameters, a critical element in optimizing workflow efficiency. This webinar marks the beginning of our three-part “Essentials of Automation” series. This first webinar is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to utilize parameters effectively: enhancing the flexibility, maintainability, and user control of your FME projects.
Here’s what you’ll gain:
- Essentials of FME Parameters: Understand the pivotal role of parameters, including Reader/Writer, Transformer, User, and FME Flow categories. Discover how they are the key to unlocking automation and optimization within your workflows.
- Practical Applications in FME Form: Delve into key user parameter types including choice, connections, and file URLs. Allow users to control how a workflow runs, making your workflows more reusable. Learn to import values and deliver the best user experience for your workflows while enhancing accuracy.
- Optimization Strategies in FME Flow: Explore the creation and strategic deployment of parameters in FME Flow, including the use of deployment and geometry parameters, to maximize workflow efficiency.
- Pro Tips for Success: Gain insights on parameterizing connections and leveraging new features like Conditional Visibility for clarity and simplicity.
We’ll wrap up with a glimpse into future webinars, followed by a Q&A session to address your specific questions surrounding this topic.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your FME expertise and drive your projects to new heights of efficiency.
State of ICS and IoT Cyber Threat Landscape Report 2024 previewPrayukth K V
The IoT and OT threat landscape report has been prepared by the Threat Research Team at Sectrio using data from Sectrio, cyber threat intelligence farming facilities spread across over 85 cities around the world. In addition, Sectrio also runs AI-based advanced threat and payload engagement facilities that serve as sinks to attract and engage sophisticated threat actors, and newer malware including new variants and latent threats that are at an earlier stage of development.
The latest edition of the OT/ICS and IoT security Threat Landscape Report 2024 also covers:
State of global ICS asset and network exposure
Sectoral targets and attacks as well as the cost of ransom
Global APT activity, AI usage, actor and tactic profiles, and implications
Rise in volumes of AI-powered cyberattacks
Major cyber events in 2024
Malware and malicious payload trends
Cyberattack types and targets
Vulnerability exploit attempts on CVEs
Attacks on counties – USA
Expansion of bot farms – how, where, and why
In-depth analysis of the cyber threat landscape across North America, South America, Europe, APAC, and the Middle East
Why are attacks on smart factories rising?
Cyber risk predictions
Axis of attacks – Europe
Systemic attacks in the Middle East
Download the full report from here:
https://sectrio.com/resources/ot-threat-landscape-reports/sectrio-releases-ot-ics-and-iot-security-threat-landscape-report-2024/
GraphRAG is All You need? LLM & Knowledge GraphGuy Korland
Guy Korland, CEO and Co-founder of FalkorDB, will review two articles on the integration of language models with knowledge graphs.
1. Unifying Large Language Models and Knowledge Graphs: A Roadmap.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2306.08302
2. Microsoft Research's GraphRAG paper and a review paper on various uses of knowledge graphs:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/blog/graphrag-unlocking-llm-discovery-on-narrative-private-data/
Neuro-symbolic is not enough, we need neuro-*semantic*Frank van Harmelen
Neuro-symbolic (NeSy) AI is on the rise. However, simply machine learning on just any symbolic structure is not sufficient to really harvest the gains of NeSy. These will only be gained when the symbolic structures have an actual semantics. I give an operational definition of semantics as “predictable inference”.
All of this illustrated with link prediction over knowledge graphs, but the argument is general.
Encryption in Microsoft 365 - ExpertsLive Netherlands 2024Albert Hoitingh
In this session I delve into the encryption technology used in Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Purview. Including the concepts of Customer Key and Double Key Encryption.
Generating a custom Ruby SDK for your web service or Rails API using Smithyg2nightmarescribd
Have you ever wanted a Ruby client API to communicate with your web service? Smithy is a protocol-agnostic language for defining services and SDKs. Smithy Ruby is an implementation of Smithy that generates a Ruby SDK using a Smithy model. In this talk, we will explore Smithy and Smithy Ruby to learn how to generate custom feature-rich SDKs that can communicate with any web service, such as a Rails JSON API.
JMeter webinar - integration with InfluxDB and GrafanaRTTS
Watch this recorded webinar about real-time monitoring of application performance. See how to integrate Apache JMeter, the open-source leader in performance testing, with InfluxDB, the open-source time-series database, and Grafana, the open-source analytics and visualization application.
In this webinar, we will review the benefits of leveraging InfluxDB and Grafana when executing load tests and demonstrate how these tools are used to visualize performance metrics.
Length: 30 minutes
Session Overview
-------------------------------------------
During this webinar, we will cover the following topics while demonstrating the integrations of JMeter, InfluxDB and Grafana:
- What out-of-the-box solutions are available for real-time monitoring JMeter tests?
- What are the benefits of integrating InfluxDB and Grafana into the load testing stack?
- Which features are provided by Grafana?
- Demonstration of InfluxDB and Grafana using a practice web application
To view the webinar recording, go to:
https://www.rttsweb.com/jmeter-integration-webinar
Epistemic Interaction - tuning interfaces to provide information for AI supportAlan Dix
Paper presented at SYNERGY workshop at AVI 2024, Genoa, Italy. 3rd June 2024
https://alandix.com/academic/papers/synergy2024-epistemic/
As machine learning integrates deeper into human-computer interactions, the concept of epistemic interaction emerges, aiming to refine these interactions to enhance system adaptability. This approach encourages minor, intentional adjustments in user behaviour to enrich the data available for system learning. This paper introduces epistemic interaction within the context of human-system communication, illustrating how deliberate interaction design can improve system understanding and adaptation. Through concrete examples, we demonstrate the potential of epistemic interaction to significantly advance human-computer interaction by leveraging intuitive human communication strategies to inform system design and functionality, offering a novel pathway for enriching user-system engagements.
Smart TV Buyer Insights Survey 2024 by 91mobiles.pdf91mobiles
91mobiles recently conducted a Smart TV Buyer Insights Survey in which we asked over 3,000 respondents about the TV they own, aspects they look at on a new TV, and their TV buying preferences.
Smart TV Buyer Insights Survey 2024 by 91mobiles.pdf
Ek36835840
1. Debnathpalit et al Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
ISSN : 2248-9622, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2013, pp.835-840
RESEARCH ARTICLE
www.ijera.com
OPEN ACCESS
Phyto-Sociological Assessment of Vegetation of Durgapur
Government College Campus, Durgapur, West Bengal, India
Mousumi Garai1, Debalina Kar2, Debnath Palit3and Arnab Banerjee4
1& 2
Research scholar of PG Dept. of Conservation Biology, Durgapur Government College, Durgapur-713214
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Botany and Head,PG Dept. of Conservation Biology, Durgapur Government
College, Durgapur-713214
4
Assistant Lecturer in Conservation Biology, PG Dept. of Conservation Biology, Durgapur Government
College, Durgapur-713214
3
ABSTRACT
The aim of the investigation was to analyze phyto-sociological characteristics and diversity pattern of the
vegetation of Durgapur Government College campus, Durgapur, West Bengal, India. The results reflect
dominancy of dicotyledons over monocotyledons in the four studied sites. Site II of college campus shows
higher diversity of species among the three studied sites. Maximum IVI value was recorded by Mangifera indica
(41.11) in site I, Caesalpinea pulcherima (40.39) in site II, Eucalyptus paniculata(62.12) in site III respectively.
Plant diversity was maximum in site II. Therefore, proper management and conservative measures needs to be
implemented for conservation of bioresources in Durgapur Government College campus in Durgapur of West
Bengal, India. Distribution pattern of plant species in all sites were regular.
Keywords: Phytodiversity, Importance value index, Species distribution.
I.
INTRODUCTION
The development of human societies often
has caused an overexploitation of forests and a
decrease in their area. Floristic diversity means
floristic variety of plant forms rich diversity suggests a
great many kinds of plants species and conversely
poor diversity indicates flower types of living species.
On this diversity hinges the future, health and beauty
of the living planet habitat of floristic diversity contain
wild species and genetic variation within, it is useful
in the development of agriculture, medicines and
industry. The present study aims to highlight the
biodiversity of trees of Durgapur Government College
Campus of Durgapur, Burdwan district, West Bengal.
The habitat is of immense value to mankind because
the modern material civilization is entirely based on
the exploitation and utilization of the existing
resources drawn from the environment and created
through human efforts. In mountain areas this is more
pronounced; terrain inaccessibility, climate in
hospitability, soil infertility, and transport availability,
scarcity of basic amenities and facilities make life
nature oriented. The controlling mechanisms of
biodiversity in different ecosystems are mentioned by
the theory of species richness which considers
resource availability and disturbance as factors for
structuring plant communities.
The patterns and role of species richness in
ecosystem function are important in terms of land-use
and climate change concerns (Chapin &Korner 1995;
Reynolds &Tenhunen 1996; Oechelet al. 1997). While
there is still debate on the role of species diversity and
ecosystem function (Hooper &Vitousek 1997; Patrick
www.ijera.com
1997), species richness is a frequently measured
ecosystem attributes (Magurran 1988) because it
characterizes the biodiversity of an area at any scale.
Species richness is controlled by a variety of biotic
and abiotic parameters (Rannie 1986; Cornell &
Lawton 1992; Huston 1994; Pollock et al. 1998).
The plant diversity at any site is influenced by species
distribution and abundance patterns. A number of
factors have been shown to affect the distribution and
abundance of plant species, including site conditions,
i.e., moisture and nutrient gradients (Day and Monk
1974, Whittaker and Niering 1975, Marks and
Harcombe 1981, Host and Pregitzer 1992) and canopy
coverage, i.e., light availability (Kull and Zobel l991).
However the investigations concerning different types
of forests or similar forests located in different areas
have given no concrete conclusion for pinpointing the
vegetation effect since site condition are changed and
it is often impossible to separate the cause from the
effect.
II.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
2.1 Study Area
The study was carried out in three sites of
Durgapur Government College campus located near at
Durgapur, (23°30’ N, 87°20’ E). Site I (23°32’39.92”N,
87°19’43.36”E at an elevation of 96.01m); site II
(23°32’36.64”N, 87°19’37.04”E at an elevation of
99.66m); site III (23°32’32.14”N, 87°19’41.86”E at an
elevation of 92.04m). Site I is situated in behind of
P.G. Department of Conservation Biology, site II is
located adjustened area of main building, Geology
835 | P a g e
2. Debnathpalit et al Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
ISSN : 2248-9622, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2013, pp.835-840
www.ijera.com
Department and staff quarters and site III situated at
the playground area of the college campus.
Serial
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
3.1 Phytosociology and Species Diversity and
Abundance
The number of species in a particular forest
type varies markedly along the altitudinal range of its
2.2 Quadrat and Phyto-sociological Studies
A total of three sites representing various
growth, which depends on the complex suit of factors
categories of natural forests and plantations were
that characterize the habitat of individual species.
selected for vegetation sampling. At each site 20
Ecological function of the species involves all kinds of
quadrats (1 m x 1 m) were laid to quantify various
processes, which are inevitably associated with some
layers. The size of the quadrat used in this study was
changes over space; composition and structure are
decided based on the species area curve method
affected at species level. The fundamental capability
following Misra (1968). Individuals of shrubs,
of ecosystems to evolve, change and recognize
climbers and tree seedlings were enumerated within
themselves is a prerequisite for the sustainability of
each quadrat. The structure and composition of
viable system (Ashby, 1974). The species in a
vegetation across vegetation types have been
community grow together in a particular environment
compared in terms of frequency, density, abundance,
because they have a similar requirement for existence
and basal area of major species. Importance Value
in terms of environmental factors (TerBaak, 1987).
Index (IVI =relative frequency + relative density +
Taxonomic survey of the ground cover flora reflects
relative dominance) and species diversity index (H ' =
the dominance of dicotyledonous plants over
pi ln pi; where, pi= ni/N; and ni = abundance of each
monocots (Table 1). A summary of phytosociological
species, N= total abundance of all species) were
data is summarized in (Table-2). The plant community
derived from the primary data separately for each
represents 24 tree species which bearing 13 families in
layer following Misra (1968). Berger and Parker Index
site I. Azadirachta indica belongs to Meliaceae family
(DBP = Nmax / N Where Nmax = is the number of
exhibit the highest density and frequency and
individuals in the most species and N= is the total
Mangifera indica belongs to Anacardiaceae family
number of all individuals in all species) were weighted
bears the highest IVI score deserves special mention
toward the abundance of the commonest species. For
for its luxuriant occurrence in the study area. The
any information-statistics index, the maximum
minimum IVI value was in the order of Butea
diversity of a community is found when all species are
monosperma(5.43), Eucalyptus paniculata(5.57),
equally abundant. Community’s actual diversity is
Terminalia arjuna(5.75), Dalbergia sissoo(6.59),
measured by the formula: Evenness (E) = H / Hmax.
Caesalpinia pulcherima(6.65).
Rank Abundance diagrams visually describe the
Diversity is the index of the ratio between the number
allocation of individuals to species in communities.
of species and the important value of an individual.
We ranked and represented 34 species in that forest
Shannon index value in site I is 2.56. All informationcommunity in a standard rank abundance diagram.
statistics indices are affected by both the number of
species and their equitability or evenness. A higher
number of species and a more even distribution both
III.
RESULTS
increase diversity. The evenness index value is 0.718.
Table 1: Recorded tree species presenting with density and important value index (IVI) from site I in Durgapur
Government College Campus during my study period from March, 2010 to March 2011
Family
Species
TI
D
RD
F (%)
FC
RF
BA
R
IVI
(tree/ha)
(m2·
Do
ha_1)
Anacardiacea
Mangifera indica
6
1.5
14.63
75
D
9.67
8.85
16.8 41.11
e
1
Anacardium occidentale
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Apocynaceae
Alstonia scholaris
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Holarrhena
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
antidysentrica
Rutaceae
Aegle marmelos
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
1.86
3.53
7.35
Meliaceae
Azadirachta indica
10
2.5
6.09
100
E
12.9
8.81
16.7 35.72
0
3
Melia azadirachta
2
0.5
1.21
50
C
6.45
1.87
3.55 11.21
Moraceae
Artocarpus heterophylus
2
0.5
1.21
50
C
6.45
6.17
11.7 19.38
2
Ficus benghalensis
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
3.75
7.12 10.94
Ficus religiosa
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
2.82
5.35
9.17
Leguminosae
Caesalpinea pulcherima
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
1.49
2.83
6.65
Delonix regia
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
1.82
3.45
7.27
Cassia fistula
3
0.75
1.82
50
C
6.45
2.63
4.99 13.26
www.ijera.com
836 | P a g e
A:F
ratio
0.016
0
0
0
0.008
0.020
0.008
0.008
0.008
0.008
0.008
0.008
0.012
3. Debnathpalit et al Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
ISSN : 2248-9622, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2013, pp.835-840
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Dipterocarpac
eae
Anonaceae
Myrtaceae
Verbenaceae
Combretacea
e
Aurocariacea
e
Fabaceae
Albizzia lebbek
Dalbergia sissoo
Tamarindus indica
Acacia nilotica
Shorea robusta
0
1
3
2
2
0
0.25
0.75
0.5
0.5
0
0.61
1.82
1.21
1.21
0
25
75
50
50
0
B
D
C
C
0
3.22
9.67
6.45
6.45
0
1.46
2.49
1.28
2.75
0
2.77
4.73
2.43
5.22
0
6.59
16.22
10.09
12.88
Polyalthia longifolia
Eucalyptus paniculata
Tectona grandis
Terminalia arjuna
2
1
0
1
0.5
0.25
0
0.25
1.21
0.61
0
0.61
50
25
0
25
C
B
0
B
6.45
3.22
0
3.22
1.82
0.89
0
1.02
3.45
1.69
0
1.93
11.11 0.008
5.51 0.008
0
0
5.75 0.008
Aurocaria sp.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Butea monosperma
1
0.25
0.61
25
B
3.22
0.85
1.61
5.43
0.008
(TI- Total no. of individuals, D- Density, RD- Relative
Density, F- Frequency, FC- Frequency Class, RFRelative Frequency, BA- Basal Area, R Do- Relative
Dominance, IVI- Important Value Index)
Table 1a: Calculated diversity indices of tree species
from site I in Durgapur Government College Campus
during my study period from March, 2010 to March,
2011
Diversity Indices
Dominance_D
0.1089
Shannon_H
2.56
Evenness_e^H/S
0.7186
Margalef
4.578
In site II among 24 tree species,
Polyalthialongifolia, belongs to Annonaceae family,
exhibit highest density and frequency. The vegetation
of studied areas
Seri
al
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
www.ijera.com
showed the presence of evergreen plant species. A
summary of phytosociological data is summarized in
(Table-3). Among all the listed twenty four plant
species Caesalpinea pulcherima belongs to
Leguminosae family was found leading dominant in
most of the stands. The IVI values (Table- 4) revealed
that the highest value belongs to the species
Caesalpinea pulcherima. The decreasing trend of IVI
value was in the order of – Butea monosperma(6.52),
Azadirchta indica(6.60), Aurocaria sp. (6.65),
Anacardium occidentale (6.82). The highest IVI value
of Caesalpinea pulcherima reveals that the species
was most dominant in that community and the lowest
IVI values of Butea monosperma, Azadirchta indica,
Aurocaria sp., Anacardium occidentale represent that
they are the rare species of that community. Higher
Shanon index value in this site is 2.78.
Table 2: Recorded tree species presenting with density and important value index (IVI) from site II in Durgapur
Government College Campus during my study period from March, 2010 to March 2011
Family
Species
T
D
RD
F
FC
RF
BA (m2· R Do
IVI
I (tree/ha
(%)
ha_1)
)
Anacardiaceae
Mangifera indica
1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
1.8
3.00
8.07
Anacardium occidentale 1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
1.05
1.75
6.82
Apocynaceae
Alstonia scholaris
5
1.25
11.1
75
D
8.57
4.66
7.77
27.45
1
Holarhena antidysentrica 3
0.75
6.66
50
C
5.71
1.83
3.05
15.42
Rutaceae
Aegle marmelos
3
0.75
6.66
50
C
5.71
3.42
5.70
18.07
Meliaceae
Azadirachta indica
1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
0.92
1.53
6.60
Melia azadirachta
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Moraceae
Artocarpus heterophylus 1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
2.22
3.70
8.77
Ficus benghalensis
2
0.5
4.44
25
B
2.85
5.26
8.78
16.07
Ficus religiosa
1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
2.50
4.17
9.24
Leguminosae
Caesalpinea pulherima 4
1
8.88
75
D
8.57
11.45
22.94 40.39
Delonix regia
2
0.5
4.44
50
C
5.71
2.20
3.62
13.77
Cassia fistula
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Albizzia lebbek
1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
1.22
2.03
7.10
Dalbergia sissoo
3
0.75
6.66
75
D
8.75
3.82
6.37
21.60
Tamarindus indica
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Acacia nilotica
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Dipterocarpace
Shorea robusta
1
0.25
2.22
25
B
2.85
1.55
2.58
7.65
ae
www.ijera.com
0
0.008
0.008
0.008
0.008
837 | P a g e
A:F
ratio
0.008
0.008
0.013
0.012
0.012
0.008
0
0.008
0.016
0.008
0.010
0.008
0
0.008
0.008
0
0
0.008
4. Debnathpalit et al Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
ISSN : 2248-9622, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2013, pp.835-840
19
Anonaceae
Polyalthia longifolia
6
1.40
20
21
22
23
24
Myrtaceae
Verbenaceae
Combretaceae
Aurocariaceae
Fabaceae
Eucalyptus paniculata
Tectona grandis
Terminalia arjuna
Aurocaria sp.
Butea monosperma
4
3
1
1
1
1
0.75
0.25
0.25
0.25
(TI- Total no. of individuals, D- Density, RD- Relative
Density, F- Frequency, FC- Frequency Class, RFRelative Frequency, BA- Basal Area, R Do- Relative
Dominance, IVI- Important Value Index)
Table 2a: Calculated diversity indices of tree species
from site II in Durgapur Government College Campus
during my study period from March, 2010 to March,
2011
Diversity Indices
Dominance_D
0.07259
Shannon_H
2.788
Evenness_e^H/S
0.8123
Margalef
4.991
Eucalyptus paniculatawas found to be the most
frequent, dominant and important species in the
community in site III. The increasing trend of IVI
value was in the order of – Tamarindus indica (7.49),
Tectona grandis(7.57), Terminalia arjuna (8.24) .The
highest IVI value of Eucalyptus paniculata reveals
that the species was most dominant in that community.
Shannon index value is 2.435. On the other hand the
Seri
al
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
www.ijera.com
13.3
100
E
11.4
3
2
2.22
75
D
8.57
6.66
50
C
5.71
2.22
25
B
2.85
2.22
25
B
2.85
2.22
25
B
2.85
evenness index value is 0.7613.
IV.
D
(tree/ha)
RD
F
(%)
FC
RF
Anacardiaceae
Mangifera indica
Anacardium occidentale
Alstonia scholaris
Holarrhena
antidysentrica
Aegle marmelos
Azadirachta indica
Melia azadirachta
Artocarpus heterophylus
Ficus benghalensis
Ficus religiosa
Caesalpinea pulcherima
Delonix regia
Cassia fistula
Albizzia lebbek
Dalbergia sissoo
Tamarindus indica
Acacia nilotica
Shorea robusta
0
0
2
0
0
0
0.5
0
0
0
5
0
0
0
50
0
0
0
C
0
2
5
3
1
0
0
3
1
2
0
2
1
0
2
0.5
1.25
0.75
0.25
0
0
0.75
0.25
0.5
0
0.5
0.25
0
0.5
5
12.5
7.5
2.5
0
0
7.5
2.5
5
0
5
2.5
0
5
50
75
75
25
0
0
75
25
50
0
50
25
0
50
4
10
1
1
0
0
1
2.5
0.25
0.25
0
0
10
25
2.5
2.5
0
0
75
100
25
25
0
0
Leguminosae
Dipterocarpace
ae
Anonaceae
Polyalthia longifolia
Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus paniculata
Verbenaceae
Tectona grandis
Combretaceae
Terminalia arjuna
Aurocariaceae
Aurocaria sp.
Fabaceae
Butea monosperma
www.ijera.com
4.01
3.57
1.25
0.95
0.87
6.69
5.95
2.08
1.58
1.45
17.48
18.32
7.15
6.65
6.52
0.010
0.012
0.008
0.008
0.008
DISCUSSIONS
TI
Moraceae
33.68 0.012
(TI- Total no. of individuals, D- Density, RD- Relative
Density, F- Frequency, FC- Frequency Class, RFRelative Frequency, BA- Basal Area, R Do- Relative
Dominance, IVI- Important Value Index)
Table 3a: Calculated diversity indices of tree species
from site II in Durgapur Government College Campus
during my study period from March, 2010 to March,
2011
Diversity Indices
Dominance_D
0.115
Shannon_H
2.435
Evenness_e^H/S
0.7613
Margalef
3.795
Species
Rutaceae
Meliaceae
8.93
Table 3: Recorded tree species presenting with density
and important value index (IVI) from site III in
Durgapur Government College Campus during my
study period from March, 2010 to March 2011
Family
Apocynaceae
5.35
R Do
0
0
6.45
0
BA
(m2·
ha_1)
0
0
1.77
0
IVI
A:F
Ratio
0
0
3.57
0
0
0
0
0
15.02 0.008
0
0
C
D
D
B
0
0
D
B
C
O
C
B
0
C
6.45
9.67
9.67
3.22
0
0
9.67
3.22
6.45
0
6.45
3.22
0
6.45
2.37
4.73
3.45
3.20
0
0
5.94
1.32
1.59
0
2.83
0.88
0
3.52
4.78
9.54
6.95
6.45
0
0
11.98
2.66
3.20
0
5.70
1.77
0
7.10
16.23
31.71
24.12
12.17
0
0
29.15
8.38
14.65
0
17.15
7.49
0
18.55
0.008
0.013
0.008
0.008
0
0
0.008
0.008
0.008
0
0.008
0.008
0
0.008
D
E
B
B
O
0
9.67
12.90
3.22
3.22
0
0
3.79
12.01
0.92
1.25
0
0
838 | P
7.64
24.22
1.85
2.52
0
0
age
27.31
62.12
7.57
8.24
0
0
0.010
0.020
0.008
0.008
0
0
5. Debnathpalit et al Int. Journal of Engineering Research and Applications
ISSN : 2248-9622, Vol. 3, Issue 6, Nov-Dec 2013, pp.835-840
In order to assess ecological knowledge of
the native flora in Durgapur College campus in
general, a quantitative phytosociological study in
different was carried out. Importance Value Index
(I.V.I.) for each plant species was determined to
quantify the importance of each species. The
vegetation of the studied sites is composed of
evergreen vegetation. The disturbance is mainly due to
the extensive cutting of tress for fuel and for fodder,
overgrazing, removal of economically important trees
and some other biotic interference. These activities are
responsible in converting natural vegetation to semi
natural vegetation. An important component of any
ecosystem is the species it contains. Species also
serves as good indicators of the ecological condition
of a system (Morgenthal, et al., 2001). A list of all
species collected during the study was compiled. The
floristic composition of different area was also
compared. The species composition of the three
studied sites was considerably different. Vegetation
analysis gives the information necessary to determine
the name of the community and provide data that can
be used to compare it with other communities. Four to
five plant communities: Azadirachta indica,
Polyalthia longifolia, Eucalyptus paniculata were
observed as a leading dominant. The communities
with strong single species dominance have been
attributed to grazing, species competition, seed
predation, disease, stability and niche diversification
(Whittaker and Levin 1977, Harper 1977). The rarer
plant species with poor representation in our samples
need proper attention from plant biologists to
determine their conservation status and key functions.
Butea
monosperma,
Eucalyptus
paniculata,
Terminalia arjuna, Dalbergia sissoo, Caesalpinia
pulcherima in site I; Butea monosperma, Azadirchta
indica, Aurocaria sp., Anacardium occidentale in site
II and Tamarindus indica, Tectona grandis,
Terminalia arjuna in site III. The communities in the
study area were heterogeneous. The absence of certain
frequencies classes in the communities reflected the
heterogeneity of the vegetation, which is either due to
biotic disturbance or the floral poverty. The result
obtained by Raunkiaer (1934) may be regarded only
as possibilities to be confirmed by other alternative
approaches. The ratio of abundance to frequency for
different species was calculated to elicit the
distributional patterns. This ratio indicates regular
(<0.025), random (0.025-0.05) and contagious (>0.05)
distributions (Curtis and Cottam 1956). In our present
investigation all of the studied plant species were
regular in distribution. The concept of species
diversity relates simply to “richness” of a community
or geographical area in species. At the simplest level
of examination, species diversity corresponds to the
number of species present. Species diversity is
considered to be an important attribute of community
organization and allowed comparison of the structural
characteristics of the communities. It is often related
to community dynamics stability, productivity,
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integration, evolution, structure and competition. The
idea of displacement of one species through
competition with other is net prime importance.
Protection of the natural flora from overgrazing is
necessary, especially during the time when the
desirable plants set their seeds. Protection is essential
to maintain the desirable forage plant species in a
good proportion, to avoid invader plant species and to
rehabilitate the destroyed natural flora (Arshad, et al.,
2002). We must carry out our efforts to make a list of
the plant species, which can be lost from the natural
environment, otherwise it will leads to desertification.
Desertification associated with human activities has
been recognized over the past two decades as one of
the important facets of ongoing global environmental
change (Verstraete and Schwartz, 1991; UNEP,1997;
Huenneke, et al., 2002) and Species loss can alter the
goods and services provided by ecosystems (Hooper,
et al., 2005).
The variable rate of frequency class distribution at
three studied sites of Durgapur Government College
campus may be explained by a common biological
explanation pattern which implies most dominant
species appeared to colonize a new area appropriates a
fraction of the available resources and by competitive
interaction, pre-empts that fraction. The second
species then preempts a similar fraction of the
remaining resource and so on with further colonists.
The reconstruction of plant communities on disturbed
sites with a species composition similar to that of the
natural area will require allocation of more financial
inputs. The saving and establishment of plant
communities one of the major tasks facing by
ecologist. Extensive work on the development of
vegetation depends upon good indigenous vegetation
recovery. Preservation of these communities
especially within disturbed sites is more generally,
demands a unique and pressing conservation
challenge. Extensive cutting of tress for fuel and for
fodder, overgrazing, removal of economically
important trees and some other biotic interference
affecting the nature, structure and composition of
plant communities. Since species diversity is
important to maintain heterogeneity of a stable
ecosystem, the diversity is to be preserved through
appropriate measures. Since this forest is likely to
have generous impact on socio-economic conditions
of local stakeholders, its ecorestoration and protection
is of utmost importance.
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