Taxonomic Appraisal of Conifers of Kashmir Himalaya

Abstract

The wealth of vegetation that adorns the earth shows a vast array of floristic diversity ranging from microscopic algae to gigantic Eucalyptus. Among these, gymnosperms, particularly conifers, constitute an important floristic component of evergreen forests by virtue of their multidimensional ecological and socio-economic values. In view of their immense importance, a thorough study has been undertaken to explore the conifers of Kashmir. During the present investigation, a total of 16 species, spread over 9 genera in 3 families, were recorded. Among these, the family Pinaceae with 7 species in 4 genera is the most dominant, while Taxodiaceae with 2 species in 2 genera is the least represented. Out of the total taxa 7 species, belonging to 5 genera, are exotic and exist in cultivation only