Why in News?

The Uttarakhand High Court has stayed the felling of oak trees in Mussoorie for construction by the Municipal Council.

• These are indigenous species found across the Himalayan region between 1,000–3,500 meters altitude, often found in the Western Himalayas and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Genus – Quercus.
• Family – Fagaceae.
• Prominent Species - The 5 prominent evergreen Himalayan species

• Soil – Moist, well‑drained, loamy soils; rich in organic matter.
• Climate – Temperate to cool climates; thrive in areas with high rainfall and humidity.
• Land Type – Mountain slopes, valleys, and temperate forest belts.

Oaks are generally slow-growing trees, Himalayan Oaks can grow up to 10-35 metres.

• Habitats - They dominate moist temperate forests, often serving as the "climax species"—the final stage of ecological succession in their ecosystems.
• Distribution (India) - Approximately 20 species are in the Western Himalayas and 15 in the Eastern Himalayas (e.g., Arunachal Pradesh).
• Global distribution – Temperate deciduous, Mediterranean evergreen, montane oak forests (North America, Asia, Europe).

Mexico has the largest number of oak species globally.

• Uses – Fuelwood & Fodder, timber, and traditional uses.
• Ecological Importance
  • Soil & water conservation.
  • Assist watershed protection by promoting the recharge of springs.
  • Biodiversity hubs.
  • Provide carbon stock and regulate microclimate.
• Threats & Degradation –
  • Rate of Degradation – 0.36 sq km/year.
  • Chronic Disturbance – Grazing, lopping, litter removal.
  • Invasive Species -Eupatorium adenophorum, Lantana camara, chir pine replacement.
  • Forest Fires – Oaks highly susceptible; damaged stems prone to pathogens.

Reference

The Indian Express | Oak Trees