Assessment of distribution, abundance, threats, challenges and possible conservation of Tree Ferns in Chitwan-Annapurna Landscape

These plants reproduce via spores and have a unique life cycle with independent gametophyte and sporophyte phases. The tree ferns are considered a living fossil due to their long historical importance and have been successful in surviving for millions of years. The CHAL region is located in central Nepal, covering an area of 32,057 km2, with elevation ranging from 200 m to 8091 m. This landscape is rich in biodiversity and culture, with eight major rivers and tributaries draining to the Narayani River. The region is home to many endangered species, including the tiger, rhino, elephant, red panda, gharial, and Snow leopard. Approximately four million people live along the CHAL. The tree ferns play a crucial role in the dynamics of forests by filtering which trees can regenerate. Seedlings often grow epiphytically on the fibrous trunks of tree ferns and can eventually over-top and kill their hosts. However, there is limited information available on the status, distribution, and abundance of tree ferns in the CHAL region. Recent studies suggest that tree ferns are under threat from various anthropogenic activities, such as reckless cutting, grazing, and fire. The main objective of this study is to conduct a detailed assessment of tree ferns in the CHAL region, focusing on their ecology, best practices, and prevailing threats. The specific objectives include assessing the ecological status and geographical distribution, abundance, and hotspots of tree ferns in the CHAL, identifying key threats to tree ferns in their natural range, documenting existing knowledge, practices, and usage of tree ferns by local communities, and recommending effective conservation measures. The study employed a desktop study, consultations with relevant stakeholders, and a field survey to collect data on tree fern distribution, abundance, threats, challenges, and conservation in the CHAL. The field survey was conducted in the winter season between December 2017 and January 2018, covering four major districts: Tanahun, Lamjung, Kaski, and Parbat. The survey focused on the Marsyandi river basin and its adjoining areas, Madi river basin and its adjoining areas, Kaligandaki river basin and its adjoining areas, and Seti river basin and its adjoining areas. The study collected spatial information on the coverage area of each population of tree ferns using handheld GPS devices. At each plot, reference information was collected on latitude and longitude, elevation, aspect, geological data, hydrological data, and other relevant factors. The study also consulted with relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Forests, Department of Plant Resources, IUCN, Ministry of Industry, Environment, and Forests, and local communities. The results of the study will provide valuable information on the ecology, distribution, and abundance of tree ferns in the CHAL region. The study will also identify key threats to tree ferns and recommend effective conservation measures to protect these unique and ecologically important plants.