Shah Reeyaa Rakeshkumar

LA4003-3

The shifting landscapes

This study aims at understanding of diverse vegetation typologies of montane subtropical pine forests located in the lesser western Himalayas. The diverse ecosystems are majorly dominated by presence of mixed Banj oak forests (Quercus leucotrichophora) along with pure Chir pine forests (Pinus roxburghii) within an altitude range of 1200-3000m. The study concentrates on the dominance of Pinus roxburghii and modifications in the ecosystem caused by its invasion. It also concentrates on the endangered species due to loss of habitats and micro conditions modified. Later, it aims at looking for the indicator species that define the modifications caused by forest fires.

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Recording landscape | To re-interpret the landscapes of the forest as one has experienced it using the medium of charcoal

Recording landscape | Sectional sketches for understanding of more layers of the forest like the topography and vegetation

Locating the forest | The forest is located by understanding the physiographical features of Himalayas

Journey to system | My journey through the forest was a trigger point to investigate about the dominance of pines

System investigation | The understanding of the factors responsible for invasion of pines and it’s effects

Ideal condition of pure dominated forest of Pinus roxburghii (Chir pine) | Found in the range of 1800-2300m, forest fires leads to it’s expanse; modifying the ecosystems

Modified condition of pure dominated forest of Pinus roxburghii (Chir pine) | Forest fires lead to degraded lands, making suitable conditions for pines to invade, leaving behind certain indicators

Ideal condition of mixed forest of Quercus leucotrichophora (Banj oak) | Found in the range of 1300-1700m, holds a rich ecosystem and holds a high tendency to stand against fires, yet burnt

Modified condition of mixed forest of Quercus leucotrichophora (Banj oak) | Forest fires lead to degradation of banj oak mixed forests and hence the pines invade on degraded lands and are grown in dominance

Points of pause | The journey is from ridge to the valley, tracing the martens and encountering various pauses that acknowledge the invasion of pines and hence the shifting landscapes