<I>Cryptomeria Japonica</I> Plantains in West Bengal

Abstract

Conifers are practically absent in the Himalayan range in the northern region of West Bengal. The bulk of the forest is a broad-leaved complex, chiefly or oaks (Quercus species), maples (Acer species), laurels (Machilus species) and magnolias (Magnolia species). There is a small patch of Pinus longifolia bareley 80 hectares in extent, lying isolated on the bank or the Great Rangit river. Hemlock (Tsuga brunoniana) and silver fir (Abies densa) are the only species which individually occur as significant communities over about 70 sq km or forest approximately between the altitudes of 2,700 m and 4,000 m.