Distribution and phenology of climbers of Kumaun in Central Himalaya,India

A total of 105 climber species were recorded and studied for their altitudinal distribution and phenology. Relatively higher percentage (54%) of deciduous species was recorded. In general, the climbers were distributed throughout the region between altitudes of 300–3500 m. However, maximum (more than 60%) species were confined either below or at around 1500 m altitude. Species richness declines gradually towards the higher altitudes, the decline was more sharp in evergreen species. The different phenological activities were usually governed by the seasonal variations in a year. Seasonality of flowering suggested the prevalence of insect pollination. Whereas, fruit types indicated equal sharing of biotic and abiotic dispersal. Study concludes, the distribution and nature of various climber species of Kumaun in Indian Central Himalaya, depends largely upon altitude and its climatic variable temperature. Whereas, the seasonality of rains plays an important role in seasonal progression of phenophases.