The Biobrio 13(1 & 2), 2026

Ecological Energetics and Phytosociological Analysis of Forest Ecosystems in Jamtara: A Study on Biomass Accumulation and Energy Flow

Hemlata Mandal & Amar Das

ABSTRACT:

The forest ecosystems of Jamtara district in Jharkhand represent a unique ecological interface between Chotanagpur plateau and Gangetic plains, yet their functional dynamics remain poorly understood. This comprehensive study investigated the phytosociological characteristics, biomass accumulation patterns, and energy flow dynamics across three distinct forest types Sal dominated, mixed deciduous, and riverine forests using systematic quadrat sampling and allometric equations. Results revealed significant variation in community structure, with Sal dominated forests exhibiting maximum tree density (485 individuals ha-¹) and basal area (32.6 m² ha-¹), while mixed deciduous forests showed highest species diversity (H'=3.42). Total biomass accumulation ranged from 259.8 to 329.8 t ha-¹, corresponding to carbon stocks of 121.9-154.8 t C ha-¹ across forest types. Net primary productivity varied between 17.8-18.7 t ha-¹ yr-¹, with energy fixation rates reaching 3.35 × 108 kJ ha-¹ yr-¹ in Sal forests. Litter decomposition rates were maximum in mixed deciduous forests (k=0.82 yr-¹), facilitating faster nutrient turnover. Soil organic carbon was highest under mixed deciduous vegetation (2.12%), indicating better soil fertility. The total ecosystem carbon sequestration potential ranged from 3.9-4.2 t C ha-¹ yr-¹, highlighting these forests' significant climate change mitigation service. This research provides crucial baseline data for understanding forest functional ecology and developing science-based conservation strategies for tropical dry deciduous forests of Jharkhand.

Keywords:    

Phytosociology, biomass accumulation, net primary productivity, carbon sequestration, tropical dry deciduous forest, Jamtara, ecosystem energetics

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