| Abstrakt: |
This research aims to study the variation in phytosociology and plant diversity of large cardamom-based traditional agroforestry systems along an altitudinal gradient (700–2000 m) in the Darjeeling Himalayas. We analyzed the changes in phytosociology and plant diversity by adopting stratified random nested quadrate sampling method. The agroforestry managers were interviewed for their perception of ecosystem service following Millennium Ecosystem Assessment guidelines. The present study showed altitudinal location significantly influences plant diversity. Overall, 130 plant species were documented, of which 37 were trees, 25 shrubs, 46 herbs, 8 ferns, 11 climbers and 3 orchids. The low-, mid- and high-altitude classes were documented with 76, 60 and 52 plant species, respectively. Overall, the study system was highly heterogeneous and diverse with a higher Shannon and Wiener diversity index of 4.09 which decreased progressively with increasing altitude as evidenced from significant negative relationship of altitude with diversity (r =− 0.582**), species richness (r =− 0.648**) and plant population (r =− 0.587**). Of the total listed plant species, about 68% were data deficit, 29% were least concerned; two species (Cryptomeria japonica and Cupressus cashmeriana) were near threatened, and one species (Brugmansia suaveolens) was extinct in the wild. This indicates that the study system plays a vital role in harbouring and conserving regional plant diversity. The plant species documented were also classified based on their ecosystem services with 120, 47, 34 and 33 species providing provisional, cultural, regulatory and supporting services, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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