Ghulam Mujtaba Shah

Phytosociology & Geographical Distribution of Thandiani, Pakistan: an Phytosociological Approach Ghulam Mujtaba Shah

Thandiani Forest represents one of the best moist temperate forests of northern Pakistan. The Forest is situated in the Gallies Forest Division of Hazara Forest Circle and can be traced in between 3329° to 3421° N and 7255° to 7329º E. The area has preserved typical features Sino-Japanese Region with relatively intact natural flora and geomorphological characteristics. The Forest is located on the range of hills running south to eastern proximity of Abbottabad city towards River Kunhar in the north. The altitudinal range of area is 1191meter to 2626 meters. Highest peaks of the Forest are known as Sikher and Sattu peaks.. Fifteen plant communities recognized during this studySoil profile of the area shows that it was loamy clay with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.75. It was recorded that variation in altitude and soil composition play significant role in establishing plant communities. Soil erosion, human disturbance, livestock herding, overgrazing, trampling and uprooting of medicinal plants disturb the plant communities. As regard usage; 90 plants species were used for various purposes like fuel wood, medicinal, timber, fodders