Vascular epiphyte diversity and host tree architecture in two forest management types in the Himalaya

Epiphytes are one of the most diversified plant life forms, whose species richness peaks in tropics and subtropics. Here we examined vertical distribution metrics (i.e., number epiphyte individuals richness) vascular epiphytes orchids ferns) on two dominant host trees Schima wallichii (DC.) Korth. Quercus lanata Sm.) sub-tropical forests Nepal. We sampled a total 72 Q. S. from forest sites: government protected national park community managed forest. applied generalized linear mixed models Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests to explain diversity by tree architecture diameter at breast height, crown size, forks, bark rugosity, pH layer), management types. After variable selection via multi-model inference technique, found height be powerful significant explanatory for across species, layers, Interestingly, was average higher than forest, particularly trunk below forks. conclude that effective conservation Nepal Himalaya requires old-growth through approaches. If large old stands maintained, can high provide ecosystem goods local people alike.