Differential effect of woody plant canopies on species composition and diversity of ground vegetation: a case study

Abstract

We examined the effect of three woody plant canopies of contrasting characteristics on species composition and diversity of the ground vegetation. Understorey environment differed in terms of light intensity and soil factors between the three canopy types. NMS ordination, based on Importance Value Indices of the herbaceous species, resulted into three clusters corresponding to the three woody plant canopies. NMS axis-1 was related to light intensity and axis-2 was related to soil water holding capacity. Diversity parameters for the herbaceous vegetation, which were significantly different between canopy types, were also related to NMS axes. The canopy type exhibiting intermediate levels of light intensity, soil moisture and soil carbon, reflected the greatest herbaceous diversity. Mosaics of woody plant canopies can be used to maintain the diversity of ground vegetation in the Gangetic Plains.