Characterization of Forest Ecosystems in the Chure (Siwalik Hills) Landscape of Nepal Himalaya and Their Conservation Need

As a basic component of the forest ecosystem, structure refers to general distribution plant species different life forms and sizes. The characterization is key understanding vegetation history, present status, future development trajectory ecosystems. Chure region Nepal covers about 12.78% country’s land area extends east west along southern foothills. This biologically rich but geologically fragile home many provides ecosystem services millions people. landscape severely suffered from anthropogenic disturbances including logging, grazing, fuelwood collection, solid waste disposal, encroachment, fire, excavation sand, gravel, boulders. In this study, we aim characterize types outside protected areas in analyze threat vulnerability biodiversity point view. We sampled 62 sites study dominant type, regeneration major threats A map was prepared. identified 14 seven new ones. newly reported ecosystems are Hymenodictyon excelsum Forest, Syzygium cumini Terminalia anogeissiana Schima wallichii–Shorea robusta Pinus roxburghii–Shorea roxburghii Bamboo thickets. conclude that intensified human activities encroachment deforestation mainly responsible for ecological imbalance region. emphasize an in-depth analysis biophysical linkage immediate conservation efforts restoration Nepal.