Lichen Biomass Distribution in Different Forest Stands of Kumaun Himalaya

Lichens are vital components of forest ecosystems, serving as indicators of environmental quality and contributing to nutrient cycling and habitat complexity. This study assesses lichen biomass across different forest stands in the Kumaun Himalaya, a region known for its rich biodiversity and varying ecological zones. Quantitative biomass estimation was conducted in representative forest types, including pine (Pinus roxburghii), oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) and mixed broadleaf stands. Standardized sampling techniques, including stratified random sampling and destructive harvesting methods, were employed to quantify epiphytic lichen biomass. Results revealed significant variations in biomass distribution across forest types, with the highest biomass recorded in undisturbed oak-dominated forests, followed by mixed and pine stands. Factors influencing lichen biomass included canopy cover, bark texture, moisture availability, and anthropogenic disturbance. The study exhibits the ecological importance of conserving native broadleaf forests to maintain lichen diversity and biomass, which in turn support broader ecosystem functions. This study also provides a baseline for long-term monitoring of lichen dynamics in response to climate change and forest management practices in the Himalayan region.

@article{ritika2026,
  author  = {Ritika Tamat, Pooja Bisht and Balwant Kumar*},
  title   = {{Lichen Biomass Distribution in Different Forest Stands of Kumaun Himalaya}},
  journal = {Journal of Bioresearch},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {5},
  number  = {2},
  pages   = {56-63},
  doi     = {https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20130219},
}