The silent forests
Sikkim has three types of forests: temperate broad-leaved (1,829-2,730 m), mixed coniferous (2,730-3,650 m), and alpine scrub and grasslands (above 3,650 m). These forests support a wide range of vegetation.
Temperate broad-leaved forests in the state are dominated by oak species like Quercus lineata and Q lamellosa. There are 11 species of oak reported in Sikkim. Other trees include :khrot' (Juglans regia), 'chilounji' (Schima wallichii), cardamom (Cinnamomum obtusifolium) and maple.
Maple (Acer campbellii) trees are also found in mixed coniferous forests, which consist of fir (Abies species), willow (Salix spp.), birch (Betula spp.), 'mahuwa' (Engelhardtia spicata) and, occasionally, the eastern Himalayan larch (Larix griffithiana), spruce (Picea morindoides) and juniper.Species of bamboo and taller varieties of rhododendron are also found in these forests.
Found at altitudes above 10,000 ft, alpine grasslands support a tremendous variety of flora. Plants grow so close together that it is said that with every footstep you trample at least three varieties. In the alpine scrub and grasslands, the common species are 'comari' (Meconopsis spp.), dwarf rhododendron, Rheum species, prostrate juniper (Juniperus prostata), and flowering plants like primula, potentilla, iris, gentian and anemone.
Related Content
- Objections to the Joint Committee report on high power engines being used for cutting timber without license in Muzaffarnagar and Saharanpur districts of Uttar Pradesh, 10/08/2022
- Order of the National Green Tribunal on accredited laboratories furnishing credible reports, 14/11/2019
- Poachers threaten precious Madagascar forest and lemurs
- Fighting silent death via environmentally-friendly stoves
- Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding illegal constructions in Matheran an eco-sensitive zone in Maharashtra, 11/09/2017
- Welspun Renewables’ Green Hero Award Recognizes Individual Environment Initiatives, Environment Minister Javadekar to Present Award Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar to Recognize Welspun Renewables’ ‘Green Hero’ Winner