Impact of Changing Climate on Floristic Composition And Ecological Characteristics of Sheenghar Range, District Karak, Pakistan

Introduction:This study examines the floristic composition and ecological characteristics of the Sheenghar range hills in District Karak, Pakistan. It aims to highlight the region's biodiversity and explore the impacts of climate change on plant resources.Novelty Statement:This research is distinguished by its comprehensive floristic inventory and ecological classification of plant species in Sheenghar. It provides valuable insights into how species adapt to climate stress, offering new perspectives on biodiversity in this under-studied region.Material and Method:Field surveys were conducted to collect and identify plant species in the Sheenghar range. These species were then classified into families and life-forms. The study involved detailed analysis of plant species composition, habitat classification, life-form categories, and leaf size spectra to understand the ecological dynamics of the area.Results and Discussion:The research identified 185 plant species across 49 families, with Asteraceae being the largest family, comprising 19 species. The area was predominantly herbaceous (65.40%), followed by shrubs (18.91%), trees (14.59%), and parasites (1.08%). Therophytes were the most prevalent life-form class, accounting for 47.45% of the species, while microphylls were the most common leaf size, representing 32.43% of the flora. The findings reveal significant plant diversity but also underscore the severe impact of climate change on the region's flora. The data suggests that while the area supports a variety of species, climate stress poses a significant threat to their survival, indicating a need for further research.Concluding Remarks:The flora of the Sheenghar range hills is both diverse and vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This underscores the importance of ongoing ecological studies and conservation efforts to safeguard the region’s biodiversity and better understand howclimate stress impacts plant species