Pak. J. Bot., 55(6): 2231-2241, 2023. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.

30848/PJB2023-6(35)

ENVISAGING NATURAL VEGETATION IN CONTRASTING ENVIRONMENTS

(PIEDMONT AND ALLUVIAL) OF DERA GHAZI KHAN, PAKISTAN
AYAZ AHMAD1, DR ASMA SAEED2, DR ALLAH BAKHSH GULSHAN3,
WAQAS YOUSAF4 AND IMRAN ZAFAR5*
1
Department of Biological Sciences, Gomal University Dera Ismail Khan, K.P.K. Pakistan
2
Institute of Biological Sciences, Gomal University, D.I. Khan, K.P.K. Pakistan
3
Department of Botany, Ghazi University, D.G. Khan, Punjab. Pakistan
4
Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Botany, The University of Lahore, Punjab Pakistan
5
Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Virtual University of Pakistan
*Corresponding author's email: [email protected]

Abstract

Climate change and anthropogenic activities have an impact on vegetation patterns and spatial arrangement. Dera Ghazi
Khan Rangelands and its environs are home to a diverse array of plant species that flourish in a variety of habitats. There are
two types of habitats in the research area: piedmont and alluvial. The present study predicted the interaction between surrounds
and vegetation at the land use and land cover (LULC), Broad vegetation groups (BVGs), vegetation type, formation and sub-
formation levels redundancy analysis (RDA). We've identified 76 species, 62 genera, and 28 families, most of which were
Solanaceae (20 species) and Asteraceae (20 species). The Qualitative data were also used to analyse the variety & floral
species richness of every random selection in which Shannon diversity (H) values varied from 2.93 to 2.49, and the
estimated species richness (S.R.) range was 19.70 to 9.30, with high values indicating high variety in the unit area. The
normal cluster analysis was applied on the Mesic zone found at a low elevation of 114.3 m, Sandy alluvial plains located at a
height of 147.21 m and the Piedmont environment at an altitude of 809.85 metres above sea level. The DCA is being used to
analyse the entire data set, and the Eigenvalues of the recoded first four DCA axes, are 0.785, 0.377, 0.137, and 0.088. DCA-
Ordination revealed the major curve to an amalgam of elevation (p<0.05) and slope (p<0.01) as elevation considerations
associated with species distribution. Soil factors were key ecosystem elements along the DCA axis. Mg2+, K+, and N2+
contributed no more than 0.054%, 0.20%, and 0.073% of variation along each ordination axis, respectively. We observed that
lower elevations (riparian) have more plant species richness and variety than higher elevations (piedmont). Furthermore, there
was a substantial positive link between length and vegetation pattern, demonstrating that numerous environmental conditions
impact the overall vegetation pattern in the study area.

Key words: Vegetation, Contrasting Environments, Alluvial, Piedmont, Floral Species, Dera Ghazi Khan.

Introduction which plays an important role in how plant species

assemble locally into communities (Benito et al., 2018;
Plants and soil contribute to incorporating the urban Zhou et al., 2020).
green spaces to determine the environment's capacity to Plant scientists worldwide show a common interest in
promote biodiversity (Farinha-Marques et al., 2011). One native plant species to predict new inclusive research
of the fundamental objectives of plant evolutionary investigations, ethnopharmacological, ecological, and
biologists is to analyse the relationship between vegetative phytoplankton studies skewed toward charismatic
types and the ecosystem (Grime, 2006). Identifying the contributions (Kandel et al., 2016; Brodeur et al., 2018).
vegetation–environment interaction is crucial for a better The phenotypic variation and systematic importance of
understanding of the consequences of climate change on flowering plants are investigated in different geographical
landscapes and the ecological response to global climate regions of Pakistan to measure the functional diversity in
change (Miebach, 2017). Assessing vegetation's climate restored ecosystems (Hanif et al., 2019; Guiden et al.,
change adaptations may aid in forecasting the future 2021). Research towards a collaborative, global
consequences of global warming on ecosystems, diversity, infrastructure for biodiversity assessment at each location,
and our own nutritional security and welfare (Brooks et al., building a global observing system among vegetation and
2006). The interaction of vegetation and environment may consumer in the community (Guralnick et al., 2007). As a
also quantitatively demonstrate connections between result, the Sources of floral scent variation and floristic
driving variables and natural ecological patterns, assisting diversity provide phylogenetic patterns as per the
in the discovery of the fundamental causes of investigation of earlier researcher (Zafar et al., 2020; Zafar
environmental changes. The Spatial and chronological et al., 2022), for different evolution of plant sexual
patterns of biodiversity have received less consideration diversity in the context of intra-floral integration in
(Beever et al., 2006). In contrast, temporal and spatial metameric organisms (Jaramillo & Manos, 2001; Diggle,
variation in the distribution and abundance are crucial 2014). The classification and anthropogenic disturbance of
ecological techniques for assessing phyto-climatic alluvial plant communities of the Piedmont region are
diversity at point levels and gradients to manage the historical sites with various life patterns of different plant
montane ecosystem (Khan et al., 2013). Sustainable use varieties (Matthews et al., 2011).
and conservation of plant biodiversity are important for Topography and vegetation types morphology are
geo-climatic gradients to drive plant species composition, frequently utilised as habitat surrogates, and they contribute
2232 AYAZ AHMAD ET AL.,

to the spatial variability of soil respiration in subtropical The main objective of this research is to arrive at a
plant species, which is connected with meteorological hypothesis to quantify the Impact of ecological parameters
factors such as soil moisture (Chen et al., 1997; Vetter et al., on individual species using various statistical approaches.
2006). Plant ecology studies the interactions of plants with The topographic profiles of the transect were determined
their physical and biological environments (Lambers et al., using an altimeter (Suunto, Vantaa, Finland). The elevation
2008). Plant community types are determined by of the transect varies from 110 to 2657 meters (s.n.m.).
topographic elements such as soil physical and chemical Transects can also be georeferenced more easily than
qualities (Yimer et al., 2006). Vegetation patterns changed stand-alone plots. The transect was georeferenced using
dramatically across topographies, suggesting distinct GPS technology. The exploration and prediction of Phyto-
environmental conditions and determining habitats for diversity in the foothills and alluvial habitats and the
various plant species (Miller et al., 2010). Diversity in leaf prediction of the affinities of aerial vegetation over a steep
characteristics at different altitudes indicates the adaptive gradient landscape from the highlands (piedmont) to
structure of different types of natural flora in different lowland habitats are the main objectives of this study
environments and displays the compositional response to (alluvial). This research also set new trends for botanical
variability in biochemical and anatomical elements of scholars in managing and representing natural flora for
different plants (Naskar & Palit, 2015). Ecosystems are future studies in various fields of botany to record
influenced by both biotic and abiotic factors, which can indigenous plant-based medicinal knowledge and establish
affect natural interpretations and lead to predictions about a profile of therapeutic plants using quantitative indicators.
species proliferation (Lewis et al., 2017). Variables
influencing species diversity include not just abiotic and Material and Methods
environmental characteristics, but also climatic gradients
impacted by biotic factors (Li et al., 2020). Site of study: We chose the Piedmont and Riparian Zone
Diverse climatic parameters and anthropogenic effects of Dera Ghazi Khan for our research; the geographical map
influence vegetation patterns and spatial layouts (Oliver is shown in (Fig. 1). The piedmont of this region is an arid
and Morecroft, 2014). As a result, the impact of the zone that gets water from rainfall. The Geographic
environment on plants at floristic classification levels coordinates of Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan are 30°03′22″ N
remains unclear (Ninkovic et al., 2021). Some studies on
latitude, 70°38′05″ E longitude and 129 m = 423 ft
the relationship between soil and vegetation (Trudgill,
elevation above sea level. This district's overall
1977), moisture and vegetation (Chang and Wetzel, 1991),
environment is dry, with little rain falling each year.
topography and greenery (Ng et al., 2009), and
Winters are comparatively chilly, but the rest of the year is
environment and vegetation (Roderick et al., 2000), were
calculated using a few defined criteria, such as selecting warm, with the exception of summers, which are extremely
annual mean precipitation to indicate the characteristic scorching. In during wintertime, temperatures typically
"water" that may affect native plants. However, the vary between 40- and 70-degrees Fahrenheit (4 and 15
relationship between average rainfall and vegetation may degrees Celsius), whereas during the summer, the climatic
never be significant (Overpeck et al., 1990); instead, total condition of this zone may reach 115 degrees Fahrenheit
monthly rainfall throughout the growing season or (46 degrees Celsius). The annual and seasonal rainfall in
quarterly rainfall may be a significantly better strategy to this area is 142 mm, with the rainy season lasting from June
studying the effect of water on plants. It is appropriate to to August as mentioned in Table 1.
take into account as many ecological parameters as
necessary, especially in extremely different locations and Data collection: Spring (February-March, 2018-2019) is
plants (Levin, 1971). the optimum time for study since most plant species are
One of the most productive tropical regions of Punjab actively growing and their reproductive organs are clearly
is Dera Ghazi Khan (Malana & Khosa, 2011). The identifiable (Ahmad et al., 2021). Mid-March was the
temperature is extremely high in the region. The two main month with the highest coverage of most plant species. A
languages spoken in the district are Urdu and Punjabi. series of test sites along a single continuous transect
Infant mortality rate (IMR) and maternal mortality rate stretching over the floodplains was used to study the flora
(MMR) are high due to the lack of adequate health care and its environment. The sampling locations were
facilities (Shafiq et al., 2021). Almost all ethnic groups use discovered along an uplift transect in floodplains that led
herbal medicines to cure many diseases, and these cultures to a gravel plateau above. To collect vegetation data, the
have a great deal of traditional knowledge about medicinal distance between locations was roughly one kilometre, and
plants (Gulshan et al., 2012). Plants are used for many 10*10 m squares were planted at each site.
things, including food, shelter, and medicinal ingredients. A composite sample was created by combining soil
Inadequate management of these plants, on the other hand, samples from three separate locations in each batch. The
is caused by a lack of precise knowledge of the exploitable gravel was filtered using a 2mm wide mesh. This
components, insufficient collection time, and inefficient composite sample was broken down into three subtests.
sampling techniques. New research in the Dera Ghazi The sieved soil samples were maintained until they
Khan area adopts a quantitative method for therapeutic could be inspected. The physical and chemical
herbs and ethnopharmacological study document the characteristics of the sieved soil sample, including soil
traditional use of local medicinal vegetation even before texture, pH, E.C., and total soluble salts, were
understanding fades (Shafiq et al., 2021). determined using standard techniques.
NATURAL VEGETATION OF DERA GHAZI KHAN, PAKISTAN 2233

Table 2. Nomination of gender and individualities.

Gender:
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
percent percent
Male 18 60.0 60.0 60.0
Valid Female 12 40.0 40.0 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
The demographic distribution of the participants on the basis of gender
as mentioned in Table 2, shows that of the 30 participants, 18 are males
(60%) while 12 are females (40%)

Table 3. Respondents age.

Age
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
percent percent
20-29 15 50.0 50.0 50.0
30-39 5 16.7 16.7 66.7
Valid 40-49 7 23.3 23.3 90.0
Above 50 3 10.0 10.0 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
According to the study of the data supplied on the age group of the 30
participants as mentioned in Table 3, the four age groups are evenly
distributed. 15 of the participants (50 percent) were under the age of 25;
5 (16.7 %) were between the ages of 30 and 40; 7 (23.3 %) were between
the ages of 40 and 50; and 3 (10 percent) were 50 and over

Table 4. Respondents educational details.

Educational qualification
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
percent percent
Diploma 6 20.0 20.0 20.0
First degree 8 26.7 26.7 46.7
Valid Master ‘s degree 8 26.7 26.7 73.3
Ph.D. 8 26.7 26.7 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
According to the degree of education of the participants utilised in the
study as mentioned in Table 4, where 8 (24.7%) have a high school
diploma, and 8 (20 %) have a diploma. 8 individuals (26.7%) have a
master's degree; 8 participants (26.7%) have a first degree; and 8
participants (26.7%) have a Ph.D.’

Table 5. Respondents work experience.

Work experience in your current organization in years
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
percent percent
0-1 6 20.0 20.0 20.0
2-5 8 26.7 26.7 46.7
6-10 7 23.3 23.3 70.0
Valid
11-20 6 20.0 20.0 90.0
Above 20 3 10.0 10.0 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
According to the study's participants' years of experience as mentioned in
Table 5, the majority (8, or 26.7 %), have 2.5 years of experience, and 7
(23.3 %) have 6-to-10-year experience. Six participants (20 %) have 11 to
20 years of experience, six participants (20 %) have 0 to one year of
experience, and three responses (10 %) have 20 or more years of experience

Table 6. Respondents material status.

Marital status
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
percent percent
Single 11 36.7 36.7 36.7
Married 18 60.0 60.0 96.7
Valid
Divorced 1 3.3 3.3 100.0
Total 30 100.0 100.0
The demographic distribution of the participants on the basis of material
status as mentioned in Table 6, shows that of the 30 participants, 11 are
single (36.7%), 18 (60%) are married and 1 (3.35) are divorced
2234 AYAZ AHMAD ET AL.,

Vegetation analysis: The vegetation data from the studied Nearly 30 people, including men and women, were
area were evaluated using classification and ordering questioned to obtain ethnobotanical information. A
methods as per Wang & Kerre (1996). The classification and statistical method was used to calculate the sample size.
order criteria were utilised to assess whether the Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews,
classification findings were accurately reflected in the group discussions, questionnaires, and study visits. The
floristically categorised main data set and to discover direct participation of the local population and Hakims
correlations between environmental variables, composition, in the region was used to conduct the research. This
and plant structure. Finally the two classification methods information was later crossed with current literature. For
were utilised for study purpose, one used hierarchical documents and other essential information, the City
subdivision (Wang & Kerre, 1996), based on statistical data Council and various authorities were contacted.
and we used Two-way indicator species analysis (Twinspan)
Demographic details of respondents in study area:
as researcher (Kooch et al., 2008), already used for
Demographic information includes gender, age 3),
hierarchical divisive population classification based on education, employment work experience and marital status
successive refinement of a single observation axis produced are explored in this report.
by correspondence analysis (CA) or detrended
correspondence analysis (DCA) of a community Quantitative analyses of ethnobotanical data:
composition. Twinspan calculates an indicator values index Ethnobotanical data will be used to describe plant sections
(I) for each split of the site's hierarchical categorization as and processing techniques. Different quantitative indices
per generic formula Ij=(nj+)/(n+) - (nj-)/(n-), where n+ and n were utilized as performance indicators as per earlier
are the number of places on the (arbitrary) positive and research (Ashfaq et al., 2019), such as Use Value (U.V.),
negative ends of the break, correspondingly, and nj+ and nj- Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant
are the number of places on the positively and negatively Consensus Factor (ICF), and Fidelity Level (F.L.).
sides that include pseudo species j, in both.
We also used DECORANA program (ter Braak, 1989), Statistical Analyses
for ordinating multivariate species data and perform
correspondence analysis to rank data on the presence or
All acquired data were logarithmically converted to
absence of species and detrended correspondence analysis match the ANOVA assumptions, except for the percentage
where order axes I and II were used for data interpretation. values. The inverse transformation of the sine (arcsine)
The compatibility between the two approaches with function was used as per earlier research (Green & Suchey,
simplification data was evaluated by overlapping separate 1976). Pearson's correlation was used with the MINITAB
categorization groups created by each process on the order software package. The matrix also included landscape
of overlays. The Shannon diversity index (H) as per formula factors such as plot height and soil properties. Data related
EH = H / ln(S), and uniformity index (J) were used to to DG Khan's main plants were evaluated using various
evaluate the species richness of all samples maintained for quantitative indices such as Relative Frequency of Citation
each species. Taxonomic affluence (S) refers to the total (RFC), Use Value (U.V.), Informant Consent Factor (ICF),
number of species in stock or one place. and Level of Fidelity (F.L.).

Fig. 1. Study area DG Khan.

NATURAL VEGETATION OF DERA GHAZI KHAN, PAKISTAN 2235

Results Piedmont zone (Association C). These associations are

described as individually.
Floristic composition: During the field research, 76
species, 62 genera, and 28 families were discovered in the Association A-mesic zone: Chenopodium album, Chloris
study area. Out of the total families, 61.7% were barbata, Eragrostis minor, Euphorbia prostrata, Nelumbo
represented by one species, and the most significant nucifera, Launaea procumbens, Eragrostis barrelieri,
contributing flora was identified as angiosperms dicot and Enneapogon desvauxii, Saccharum officinarum, Phalaris
identification of dicot were compared with earlier research minor, Aerva persica, Saccharum munja, Pongamia pinnat
of Zafar et al., (2021). In contrast, angiosperms monocot and Pongamia pinnata. These species were not found in the
contributed less to the floristic richness of the research area other clusters identified by standard cluster analysis. The
as showen (Fig. 2). The Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, majority of the species in this group can be found in and
Fabaceae and Amaranthaceae families each supplied three around planted or abandoned crop fields. More common
species, while Rhamnaceae, Solanaceae and Capparaceae species included Chloris barbata, Nelumbo nucifera,
each gave three species were found to be the least species- Enneapogon desvauxii, Euphorbia prostrata, Chenopodium
rich families. In terms of life forms, herbs contributed more album, Launaea procumbens, Eragrostis minor, Acacia
than shrubs and trees. Alhagi maurorum, Rhayzia stricta, nilotica, Typha elephantine whereas Eragrostis barrelieri,
Nerium oleander, Acacia jacquemontii and Calotropis Phalaris minor, and Saccharum officinarum were rare. Rare
procera are among the significant shrubs. species included Aerva persica, Saccharum munja, Capparis
ducidua and Saccharum munja,, Cymbopogon jawarancusa,
Vegetation ecology Demostachya bipinnata, Calotropis procera, Cyanodon
dactylon, Ziziphus mauritiana, Alhagi maurorum, Pagnum
Floristic richness and diversity of species: Qualitative data harmala, Rhayzia stricta, Haloxylon salicornium, Sueda
were also used to analyse the variety & floral species fruticosa, Demostachya bipinnata, Calligonum polygonoides,
richness of every random selection. Inside the area of Leptadenia pyrotechnica, Demostachya bipinn, Techomella
research, Shannon diversity (H) values varied from 2.93 to undulate, Tamarix aphylla, Cenchrus setigerus and Withiana
2.49, with a high value suggesting high diversity. The coagulans, were also found in all three associations, as were
estimated species richness (S.R.) range was 19.70 to 9.30, Sacchrum spontaneum, Prosopis juliflora, Capparis
with high values indicating high variety in the unit area. cartilagnea, Salsola foetida, Ebenus stellata, Daphne
Because DCA axis-1 had a significant negative relationship mucronata, Euphor and Eclipta prostrate,. Furthermore, in
with species abundance and diversity, the results revealed association A and C, Haloxylon recurvum, Dipterygium
that species richness decreased as elevation increased glaucum, Ziziphus budhensis, Ziziphus nummuclaria and
throughout the transect. The highest efficiency was obtained Prosopis species specigera were found.
at the lowest end of the transect (19.70), while the lowest
value was found at the top end (10 species per unit area). The Soil: The association "A" was determined as being located
H, B, and D diversity indexes revealed similar elevation at a low elevation of 114.3 m utilizing conventional
patterns, falling as the transect gradient progressed. It was hierarchical clustering (a. s. l.). Because it gets the most
discovered that there is a negative correlation between drain water from hill torrents, rainwater, and runoff, the
altitude and diversity parameters. soil of this association is rich in micro-and macronutrients.
The soil in this relationship has a high amount of soil
Classification: The flora roughly follows the topographic chemical changes. The soil exhibited the greatest mean
pattern. Piedmonts, including high-altitude rocky terrain, E.C. and inorganic material levels from the summit. The
mountain Suleman slopes, dunes, and a mesic riparian soil in this relationship contains the highest concentrations
ecosystem along the Indus River, make up the study area of cations and anions.
(Alluvial Environment). As the topographical variables
Association B-Sandy alluvial plains.
vary, the floristic composition progressively transforms. The
number of distinct species identified in the study area ranges. The inclusion of Nerium oleander and Phragmites
occidental is absent from all other relationships found by
Normal cluster analysis: Three plant correlations have traditional hierarchical clustering and are identified as
been detected inside the study areas employing bioindicators for this species, which distinguishes this
conventional hierarchical clustering. The cluster analysis' relationship. While species such as Cymbopogon
closest links were blended with the interconnections with jawarncusa, Demostachya bipinnata, Calotropis procera,
very few stands. These linkages are influenced by the Cyanodon dactylon, Zicziphus mausritiana, Alhagi
kind of soils, geographical strata, and altitude of the maurorum, Padgnum harmasla, Rhayzia stricta, Haloxyelon
location where plant samples were obtained. The quantity salicoranium, Sueda fruticosa, Leptadenia pyrotechnica,
and substance of plant relationships were measured at Tamari, Calligonum polygonoides, In all associations A and
three different levels inside every association. B, Sacchrum spontaneum, Prosopis juliflora, Capparis
The separation of Chlorisbarbata, Chenopodium album, cartilagnea, Salsola foetida, Ebenus stellata, Daphne
Launaea procumbens, Eragrostis minor, Typha elephantine, mucronata, Euphorbia granulate, Eclipta prostrate,
Nelumbo nucifera, Eragrostis barrelieri, Enneapogon Farsetia hamiltonii, Panicum hemitonon, Fagonia
desvauxii, Phalaris minor, Capparis, Saccharum munja, bruguieri, , salvad Bracharia reptans, Cirsium arvense,
Euphorbia prostrate, Pongamia pinnata, Saccharum Panicum repens, Hertia intermedia, Phyllanthus, Periploca
officinarum and Aerva persica. Along the elevation gradients, aphylla, Trianthem aportulacastrum, Sophora mollis, Olea
the clusters identified three types of flora. Three hierarchical cuspidate, Datura stramonium, Tribulus terrestris and
groupings emerged as a consequence such as Mesic zone Cenchrus ciliaris, were also found in both associations B
(Association A), Sandy alluvial plains (Association B) and and C, according to standard cluster analysis.
2236 AYAZ AHMAD ET AL.,

Occurence of diffrent species in study area annulatum, Scirpus maritimus, Gymnosporia royleana, and
Acacia jacquemontii, while rare species included Acacia
Angiosperms monocots Angiosperms dicots
Herbs Shurbs
modesta. Haloxylon recurvum, Depterygium glaucum,
2 Ziziphus budhensis, Ziziphus nummuclaria, and Prosopis
specigera were also found in association A and C, as
indicated using standard cluster analysis. Similarly, Hertia
intermedia, Bracharia reptans, Periploca aphylla, Panicum
repens, Sophora mollis, Phyllanthus niruri, Datura
stramonium, Trianthema portulacastrum, Cenchrus ciliaris,
1 Tribulus terrestris, and Olea cuspidate were found in both
associations B and C using conventional cluster analysis.

Soil: This association is situated at an altitude of 809.85

metres above sea level, has a lot of topographic diversity, and
0 20 40 60 80 100 was isolated using standard cluster analysis. Soil has less
edaphic qualities in terms of structure and chemicals. The
Fig. 2. The figure represents the total counting of angiosperms, bulk of the sampling stands was in the stony desert zone, and
monocot and dicot plants as well as the indication of shrubs and the plant type exhibiting lithospheric site preferences was
herbs found in the study area. validated. Compared to the remainder of the associations A
and B, the soil had the lowest mean levels of E.C. and organic
matter. Cations and anions soluble in soil were at their lowest
levels. The species in this interaction favoured a low pH and
fewer cations and anions.

Ordination: Informally describing the repercussions of

ordination in broad generalities is difficult. The ratings
appear to be more akin to the non-continuous nature of
vegetation and the classification-based grouping. As a
result, it's simple and profitable to use ordination to
characterize the essential properties of the stands and
species connected with ordination.
DCA was used to analyze the entire data set. The first
four DCA axes have Eigenvalues of 0.785, 0.377, 0.137, and
0.088, respectively. In the current situation, species that
dwell on sandy substrates have low axis-1 scores, while
species that reside in rocky environments have high scores,
Fig. 3. A total of 200 individuals were interrogated. The original and species that live in alluvial plains are in the centre.
inhabitants made up the overwhelming majority of the 200 The significant positive relationship between DCA axis-
respondents. The large majority of people were between the ages of 1 and elevation implies that as the axis value score increased,
20 and 50 above. Due to a lack of educational infrastructure in that the altitude likewise increased. As the height increased, the
region, a significant proportion of informants have completed their significant stigma between DCA axis-1 scores and soil
ten-year education (69.5%). The majority of the informants preferred conductivity suggested that E.C. decreased. As the score along
to communicate in Punjabi and Urdu regularly. A sizable proportion DCA axis-1 rises, the E.C. of the substrate falls. According to
of participants (55%) were male rather than female (45%). the results, species such as Chenopodium album, Chloris
barbata, Eragrostis minor, Euphorbia prostrate, Typha
Soil: Association "B" was discovered at an elevation of elephantine, Launaea procumbens, Nelumbo nucifera,
147.21 m (a.s.l.) via normal cluster analysis, which was Eragrostis barrelieri, Acacia nilotica, Enneapogon desvauxii,
somewhat higher than association A. The soil in this Saccharum officinarum, Phalaris minor, Aerva persica,
relationship had moderate soil chemical reaction values. Saccharum munja It's possible that Pongamia pinnata
The E.C. and organic matter levels in the soil were both increased as soil cations and anions decreased.
averages. Compared to Association A and Association C, A huge number of species emerged as a result of the
area's specialization. Component species with a low land
this association's soil contains intermediate cation and
relationship (A) Chenopodium album, Chloris barbata,
anion values. Eragrostis minor, Euphorbia prostrate, Nelumbo nucifera,
Launaea procumbens, Acacia nilotica, Typha elephantine,
Association C-piedmont environment: Heliotropium Eragrostis barrelieri, Enneapogon desvauxii, Saccharum
eichwaldi, Bothriosperum tenellum, Dichanthium officinarum, Phalaris minor, Aerua persica, Saccharum
annulatum, Scirpus maritimus, Gymnosporia royleana, mun, On alluvial plains, Rhayzia stricta, Haloxylon
Citrulus colocynthis, Acacia modesta, Piper longum, and salicornium, Sueda fruticosa, Leptadenia pyrotechnica,
Acacia jacquemontii, that were not present from all other Calligonum polygonoides, Techomella undulate, Tamarix
associations demonstrated by normal cluster analysis, aphlla, Cenchrus setigerus, and Withiana coagulans ran,
characterized this association. Common species included and Heliotropium eichwaldi, Bothriosperum tenellum,
Heliotropium eichwaldi, Bothriosperum, Dichanthium Dichanthium annulatum.
NATURAL VEGETATION OF DERA GHAZI KHAN, PAKISTAN 2237

Table 7. The detail of identified species and their families Despite growing substrate, water accessibility had a
with accumulated percentage of existence. substantial influence on the DCA-axis I. The aridity increased
Identified family Number of as one proceeded from the right to the left side of the canyon.
Sr. No. Percentage
name identified species The spatial distribution of species along the DCA-axis I is
1. Acanthaceae 3 1.65 influenced by soil chemistry. As the score along the
2. Asteraceae 20 11 ordination axis-I grows, the concentration of bivalent cations
3. Papilionaceae 9 4.95 such as Ca+2 and Mg+2 decreases. The rocky zone of the
4. Cactaceae 3 1.65 transect has lower cations and anions than the stony and
5. Poaceae 4 2.2 partially sandy alluvial plains. The discrepancy is most likely
6. Lamiaceae 5 2.75 due to geological distribution, sufficient to prevent species
7. Amaranthaceae 6 3.3 dispersal. Heliotropium eichwaldii, Bothxriosperum
8. Rosaceae 4 2.2 tenellum, Dichanthium annulatum, Scirpus masritimus,
9. Apiaceae 6 3.3 Gymnosporia royleana, Citrulus coloecynthis, Accacia
10. Solanaceae 11 6.06
modesta, Pipper lonegum, and Acacia jacquemontii were all
rocky-area species that were not found on the alluvial plains.
11. Chenopodiaceae 8 4.4
Elevation, pH, and organic matter all impacted the ordination
12. Euphorbiaceae 5 2.75
axis-II. Organic matter rises when scores on the ordination
13. Malvaceae 3 1.65
axis-II drop. There was a lot of biological detritus in the
14. Asclepiadaceae 7 3.85
persistently coarse water towards the bottom. The association
15. Portulaceae 2 1.1 "C" was found to sustain site-specific species that can survive
16. Zygophyllaceae 4 2.2 at high altitudes with restricted nutrient sources, and these
17. Mimosaceae 11 6.06 species were completely missing from the alluvial plains. In
18. Polygonaceae 4 2.2 addition, when one goes from the bottom to the top, the pH
19. Geraniaceae 2 1.1 drops, which is highly connected to axis 1. As a result of the
20. Nyctaginaceae 2 1.1 dilution, the pH value of the water stream was the lowest, as
21. Salvadoraceae 2 1.1 were the readings at high elevation.
22. Boraginaceae 6 3.3
23. Convolvulaceae 2 1.1 Identifications of important plants: Over 185 plants
24. Caesalpiniaceae 9 4.95 were identified, which were split into 52 families. The most
25. Meliaceae 2 1.1 usually cited families were Solanaceae (20 species) and
26. Liliaceae 6 3.3 Asteraceae (20 species). The most frequent life form was
27. Moraceae 4 2.2 herbs (51%). The leaves (68 %) were the most extensively
28. Tamaricaceae 2 1.1 employed plant part, followed by the whole plant (65%),
29. Apocynaceae 3 1.65
and extraction was the most common form of
administration (50%). Fresh plant material was used to
30. Myrtaceae 2 1.1
make herbal medicines in the past. According to the
31. Cactaceae 2 1.1
literature, several species have been identified, each with
32. Capparidaceae 4 2.2
its unique medicinal qualities.
33. Tamaricaceae 2 1.1
34. Palmaceae 3 1.65 Demographic data of this study: Five field visits to
35. Rubiaceae 1 0.55 collect ethnomedical knowledge on = plants were
36. Brassicaceae 1 0.55 conducted (to account for seasonal fluctuations). A field
37. Violaceae 1 0.55 study is undertaken from June 2019 through March 2020.
38. Sapindaceae 1 0.55 A total of 200 participants were questioned and exploratory
39. Pedaliaceae 1 0.55 details is shown (Fig. 3).
40. Zingiberaceae 1 0.55
41. Rhamnaceae 1 0.55 Discussion
42. Lauraceae 1 0.55
43. Fumariaceae 1 0.55 Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan is a study area which is
44. Resedaceae 1 0.55 notable for its alluvial plains and practically fertile soil
45. Ficoidaceae 1 0.55 (Ahmad & Qadir, 2011). Furthermore, cultivated plant
46. Oxalidaceae 1 0.55 species such as fruits, vegetables, and staple crops are
47. Aizoaceae 1 0.55 regularly grown in this environment. This region is usually
48. Sapindaceae 1 0.55 supplied with water through tube-well from subterranean
49. Cannabinaceae 1 0.55 water, as subsurface water is suitable for vegetative
50. Bignoniaceae 1 0.55
development across this sector. Soil nutrient content was
found to be almost comparable between streams and along
51. Frankeniaceae 1 0.55
lateral gradients of water flow canals. A total of 76 species
52. Oleaceae 1 0.55
were anticipated in the current study, which was done in
53. Berberidaceae 1 0.55
the piedmont and riparian habitats of Dera Ghazi Khan
54. Cucurbitaceae 1 0.55
District, Punjab, from March-April 2018-2019. Brachiaria
55. Verbenacea 1 0.55 reptans (L.), Aristida adscensionis (L.), Cenchrus setiger
2238 AYAZ AHMAD ET AL.,

(Vahl.), Cenchrus ciliaris (L.), Cymbopogon jawarancusa An integrated framework of plant structure and
(Schult.), Chloris barbata (Sw.), Cynodon glabratus function is dependent on the amount of above-ground
(Steud.), Cynodon dactylon (L.), Stapf. Dichanthium vegetation (Weigelt et al., 2021), which is more constant
(Hochst.), Stapf., Enneapogon persicus (Boiss.), Panicum owing to some psychological processes, and this is fully
hemitomon (Schult.), Eragrostis barrelieri (Wolf.), dependent on regional climatic and edaphic conditions.
Phalaris minor (Retz.), Panicum repens (L.), Saccharum The competitive impacts and responses of a guild of
munja (Roxb.), Phragmites australis (Cav.), Saccharum temperate plant species, as well as the productivity of
spontaneum (L.), Saccharum except for specific areas temperate broad-leaved forest stands with varying tree
where the soil composition was not suitbale, the plant species variety, were investigated. Peganum hermala,
families and species listed in Amaranthaceae, Fabaceae, Fagonia indica, Suaeda fructicosa, Rhazya stricta,
Asteraceae, Poaceae, and Apocynaceae were the dominant Withania coagulens and Tribulus terristris, were the most
and important families contributing to the native flora, abundant perennial life span species in the soil in Dera
result as per mthced with Fongod et al., (2014), while Ghazi Khan's upland (arid) area. However, the soil of the
Boragenaceae, Polygonaceae, Chenopodiaceae, and
flat alluvial plains (mesic) area has the greatest diversity of
Cucrbitaceae were negligible and had a smaller number of
annual life span plants such as Fumaria indica,
species result matched with earlier research (Hussain et al.,
Chenopodium album, Melilotus albus, and Medicago
2016). It was also discovered that the distribution patterns
of these plant groupings matched those previously denticulata. The xeric type of vegetation's Dera Ghazi
determined by several studies (Jan et al., 2017; Ahmad et Khan's soil is plentiful in the piedmont (upland area) as per
al., 2021) in the surrounding area, Pakistan's piedmont and earlier research (Gulshan et al., 2012), but the mesic type
alluvial plains are also investigated as per earlier research of Dera Ghazi Khan's soil were largely retrieved from the
(Pourrut et al., 2011). As per our results the climatic alluvial plain (low land area). As per our results we also
changes and interactions with biotic variables, vegetation explored that Dera Ghazi Khan's soil demonstrates the
diversity has resulted in a diverse range of plants and occurrence of distinct species in rare, frequent, abundant,
occupants inhabiting comparable habitats and and variable abundance (Hussain, 2009). The beatifical
communities as per same investigation our results are species known Acacia Modesta was much in the piedmont
highly comparable with earlier research (Montoya & region, whereas Acacia nilotica was discovered in the
Raffaelli, 2010; Pugnaire et al., 2019; Vandvik et al., alluvial plains of Dera Ghazi Khan. Mesic environment
2020). Based on habit type, herbaceous plant growth species include Fumaria indica, Euphorbia helioscopia,
firms make up more than half of all species (55.26%). Our Vicia sativa and Melilotus albus are also investigated in
findings are also consistent with previous research (Tao study area. Due to its topographic variety, Dera Ghazi Khan
et al., 2021) undertaken by several plant ecologists across is rich in flora, notably medicinal herbs, which the local
Pakistan's diverse geographical zones. Herbaceous plants people use for herbal tea, applications, and decoctions. This
(55.26%) were the most prevalent living form in the region has never had ethnomedicinal plant research before;
alluvial environment of the research region. therefore, it was chosen for this one. Plants were identified
This study showed a comprehensive link between based on information supplied by the local people and
two height zones. The relationships were proved via Hakims who practise ethnomedicine.
quantitative analysis, demonstrating that these vegetation
species groups are not formed at randomly and our result In (Fig. 5), the individuals species and their families
match with earlier research (Lundholm, 2015). Our are indicated with different colour coded range and details
results also demonstrated that all little variations in of all families are presented with percentage of occurrence
climatic conditions and altitude have a significant impact like Acanthaceae (03), Asteraceae (20), Papilionaceae
on the creation of community composition boundaries,
(09), Cactaceae (03), Poaceae (04), Lamiaceae (05),
which are determined by soil cations and anions exchange
Amaranthaceae (06), Rosaceae (04), Apiaceae (06),
capacity, height, soil chemical characteristics, and
Solanaceae (11), Chenopodiaceae (08), Euphorbiaceae
chemical reactions (pH). According to DCA research
(05), Malvaceae (03), Asclepiadaceae (07), Portulaceae
analysis, altitude, soil chemical reactions (pH), electrical
conductivity, and bicarbonates all have a substantial (02), Zygophyllaceae (04), Mimosaceae (11),
influence on species distribution and community Polygonaceae (04), Geraniaceae (02), Nyctaginaceae
composition. The previous study (Moffett et al., 2010; (02), Salvadoraceae (02), Boraginaceae (06),
Nottingham et al., 2018), discovered a consistent pattern Convolvulaceae (02), Caesalpiniaceae (09), Meliaceae
of vegetation zones influenced by edaphic variables, (02), Liliaceae (06), Moraceae (04), Tamaricaceae (02),
implying that the two locations are identical. Naturally, Apocynaceae (03), Myrtaceae (02), Cactaceae (02),
ordination along environmental gradients from the bottom to Capparidaceae (04), Tamaricaceae (02), Palmaceae (03),
the top of the longitudinal effects neighbourhood diversity Rubiaceae, Brassicaceae, Violaceae, Sapindaceae,
(Usseglio‐Polatera & Beisel, 2002); it has the strongest Pedaliaceae, Zingiberaceae, Rhamnaceae, Lauraceae,
positive association with elevations and is associated with the Fumariaceae, Resedaceae, Ficoidaceae, Oxalidaceae,
three floristic categories of communities revealed by cluster Aizoaceae, Sapindaceae, Cannabinaceae, Bignoniaceae,
analysis and detail of enlivenment gradient and short Frankeniaceae, Oleaceae, Berberidaceae , Cucurbitaceae
ecological gradient are mentioned in (Fig. 4). While it is and Verbenaceae, are most commonly found in study area.
apparent that high heights have poor nutrition levels, they are The detail of identified individual species and their families
also associated with nutrient loss and downhill slope torrents. are mentioned in (Table 7).
NATURAL VEGETATION OF DERA GHAZI KHAN, PAKISTAN 2239

Fig. 4. Ecological gradient: The negative relationships between pH support this theory, E.C., N, Ca, Na, and Mg. This statement also lends
credence to the notion that each species has its own features. Plants and their responses to ecological adaptation in a region with dramatic
climatic changes were impacted by environmental factors, resulting in the floristic makeup of all three groups. The research area's
edaphic variation is little known, and Pakistan's detailed species composition reacts to elevation gradients.

Capparidaceae Identified Family in Study Area

Zingiberaceae
2% Brassicaceae Pedaliaceae 1%
1% 1%
Cactaceae Palmaceae Violaceae Rhamnaceae
Apocynaceae 1% Papilionaceae
2% Sapindaceae
1% 1%
Liliaceae 2% 5% Cactaceae
Myrtaceae Tamaricaceae 1%
3% Moraceae Acanthaceae 2%
2%
1% 1% Rubiaceae 2%
1%
Tamaricaceae Poaceae
Meliaceae 1% Asteraceae 2%
1% 11%
Caesalpiniaceae
5% Lamiaceae
3%
Convolvulaceae
1% Amaranthaceae
3%

Solanaceae
Boraginaceae Mimosaceae 6%
3% 6%
Rosaceae
Salvadoraceae 2%
1%

Nyctaginaceae
1% Chenopodiaceae
Zygophyllaceae Portulaceae 5%
Geraniaceae Malvaceae Euphorbiaceae
2% 1% 2% 3%
1% Apiaceae
Polygonaceae 3%
2% Asclepiadaceae
4%

Fig. 5. The family identified in D.G khan area; The ethnomedicinal research was based on 189 plant species from 52 families collected
from various parts of DG Khan. The Monocots were represented by three families, while the remaining 49 represented the Dicots.
2240 AYAZ AHMAD ET AL.,

Conclusion Ashfaq, S., M. Ahmad, M. Zafar, S. Sultana, S. Bahadur and N.

Abbas. 2019. Medicinal plant biodiversity used among the
The current study effort in District D.G. Khan has rural communities of arid regions of northern punjab, pakistan.
identified the quantity and composition of communities in Indian J. of Traditional Knowledge, 18(2): 226-241.
two historical locations, Piedmont and Riparian habitats, at Beever, E.A., R.K. Swihart and B.T. Bestelmeyer. 2006. Linking
various altitudinal inclines. The most significant source of the concept of scale to studies of biological diversity: Evolving
habitat for floral variation is topographically diversified approaches and tools. Divers. Distrib., 12(3): 229-235.
landscapes. According to our data, species diversity is also Benito, X., S.C. Fritz, M. Steinitz‐Kannan, P.M. Tapia, M.A.
dramatically reduced at high altitudes compared to low Kelly and T.V. Lowell. 2018. Geo‐climatic factors drive
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freshwaters. J. Ecol., 106(4): 1660-1672.
communities still employ plants in everyday life. This Brodeur, J., P.K. Abram, G.E. Heimpel and R.H. Messing. 2018.
study sets the foundation for the long-term preservation of Trends in biological control: Public interest, international
native flora. Phytochemical and medical research can networking and research direction. BioControl, 63(1): 11-26.
benefit from plants with high ICF, U.V., and F.L. This Brooks, T.M., R.A. Mittermeier, G.A. Da Fonseca, J. Gerlach, M.
insight might open the door for new plant-based Hoffmann, J.F. Lamoreux, C.G. Mittermeier, J.D. Pilgrim
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Recommendations and suggestions Chang, J.T. and P.J. Wetzel. 1991. Effects of spatial variations of
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fodder, and medicines to the population of this region Relations of soil properties to topography and vegetation in
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metameric organisms: Plants are more than the sum of their
1. Local and native species should be managed to improve parts. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B:
this area's ecology and nutrient cycle. Biol. Sci., 369(1649): 20130253.
2. For the first time in Pakistan, extensive ecological and Farinha-Marques, P., J. Lameiras, C. Fernandes, S. Silva and F.
morphological examinations of plant species. Guilherme. 2011. Urban biodiversity: A review of current
3. For the first time in Pakistan, extensive ecological and concepts and contributions to multidisciplinary approaches.
morphological examinations of plant species. Innovation: Eur. J. Soc. Sci. Res., 24(3): 247-271.
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4. Tree species in the research area with little or poor indigenous knowledge and unconscious preservation of the
regeneration require immediate 5. care to ensure survival. environment: An evaluation of indigenous knowledge in
5. Give natural species, particularly woody plants, more south and southwest regions of cameroon. Int. J. Biodiv.
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6. Alternative fuelwood choices should be made accessible, Green, R.F. and J.M. Suchey. 1976. The use of inverse sine
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and residents of the area, local people should be actively Grime, J.P. 2006. Plant strategies, vegetation processes, and
involved in increasing awareness about wild vegetation ecosystem properties. John Wiley & Sons., 2(1): 456-464.
Guiden, P.W., N.A. Barber, R. Blackburn, A. Farrell, J. Fliginger,
protection through social, print, and electronic media. S.C. Hosler, R.B. King, M. Nelson, E.G. Rowland and K.
8. Through electronic or print media, natives should be Savage. 2021. Effects of management outweigh effects of
aware of the importance of local biodiversity, habitat plant diversity on restored animal communities in tallgrass
conservation, and the consequences of natural prairies. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 118(5): e2015421118.
resource depletion. Gulshan, A.B., A.A. Dasti, S. Hussain and M.I. Atta. 2012.
9. By supporting and encouraging indigenous populations to Indigenous uses of medicinal plants in rural areas of Dera Ghazi
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Based on our findings, future biodiversity conservation Guralnick, R.P., A.W. Hill and M. Lane. 2007. Towards a
and management efforts should aid taxonomists, collaborative, global infrastructure for biodiversity
assessment. Ecol. Lett., 10(8): 663-672.
ethnobotanists, ecologists, and conservationists in their Hanif, M.A., Z. Guo, M. Moniruzzaman, D. He, Q. Yu, X. Rao,
research initiatives worldwide. Much work connected to S. Liu, X. Tan and W. Shen. 2019. Plant taxonomic diversity
flora documentation, Phyto diversity, and seed banks better explains soil fungal and bacterial diversity than
were published from time to time functional diversity in restored forest ecosystems. Plants.,
8(11): 479.
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(Received for publication 01 March 2022)