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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Altitudinal distribution and diversity patterns of invasive alien plant species in Champawat district, Kumaun Himalaya
Authors
Mahima Garkoti, Neha Joshi, Ravindra Kumar, Chandrshekhar Oli, Dhani Arya
Abstract
The Himalayan region is a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot
currently facing escalating ecological threats from invasive alien plant
species. This study evaluates the diversity and distribution patterns of alien
flora across an altitudinal gradient (700 m – 2200 m asl) in the Champawat
district of Kumaun Himalaya, India. The gradient was stratified into three
distinct elevational zones: lower, middle, and higher. Field surveys conducted
during September–October 2024 documented a total of 57 alien plant species
across 49 genera and 20 families. Growth form analysis revealed a heavy skew
toward herbaceous structures, with herbs comprising 82% of the recorded flora,
followed by shrubs (14%) and trees (4%), with Asteraceae emerging as the most
species-rich family. Taxonomically, 27 species were classified as strictly
invasive, while the remaining elements comprised naturalized, casual, or
cultivated cohorts, predominantly originating from South and Tropical America.
Species richness exhibited a distinct hump-shaped pattern along the gradient,
peaking within mid-altitudinal zones (1200 m – 1600 m asl) before significantly
declining at higher elevations. This distribution implies that mid-elevation
regions, characterized by intense anthropogenic disturbances and climate
transitions, serve as primary hubs for alien plant establishment. Ultimately,
this study provides a vital empirical checklist necessary to design and
implement effective localized management and conservation strategies for the
region.
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Pages:203-209
How to cite this article:
Mahima Garkoti, Neha Joshi, Ravindra Kumar, Chandrshekhar Oli, Dhani Arya "Altitudinal distribution and diversity patterns of invasive alien plant species in Champawat district, Kumaun Himalaya". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 203-209
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