Tree Ring analysis of Abies Pindrow around Dokriani Bamak (Glacier), Western Himalayas, in relation to climate and glacial behaviour: Preliminary results

Abstract

Analysis of tree ring data of Abies pindrow has been made from seven sites (Din Gad Valley) close to the Dokriani Bamak Glacier (Latitude 30°50' to 30°52' N and 78°47' to 78°50' E Longitude). Total 299 cores from 157 trees were collected from seven sites representing different glacially formed geomorphic features and elevation zones to study the growth behaviour of trees in relation to climate change and glacial fluctuations in the Western Himalayas. A tree ring chronology of this site for the last 371 years extending from 1625 AD to 1995 AD has been established. Analysis of tree growth trend during this period indicates that the trees of this region experienced several periods of reduced growth that might have coincided with positive mass balance and glacial advance.