Shifting Ecosystems: Plant Diversity and Habitat Changes in the Himalayas

The Himalayan region, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, is increasingly threatened by climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable land use. This book, Shifting Ecosystems: Plant Diversity and Habitat Changes in the Himalayas, presents a collaborative effort between the Uttarakhand Science Education and Research Centre (USERC), Dehradun, and the Department of Botany, Pt. L.M.S. Campus, Sri Dev Suman Uttarakhand University, Rishikesh, to address these pressing challenges. The book is aimed at creating interest, awareness, and understanding of the changing dynamics of plant diversity and habitats in the Himalayan region, fostering a deeper appreciation for these unique ecosystems and emphasizing the need for their conservation. Within these pages, readers will embark on a journey through the diverse realms of Himalayan flora, exploring patterns in plant diversity, utilization, community ecology, invasive alien weeds, phenology, and related fields. Each chapter serves as a gateway to deeper understanding, offering insights gleaned from rigorous scientific inquiry and firsthand observations. This compilation is a vital resource for researchers, students, and policymakers, inspiring actionable steps toward sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the fragile Himalayan ecosystems.