Seventy-five years of vegetation dynamics in the Pathariya Hill forest complex of Sagar based on a reassessment of R. Misra’s pioneering study

This study re-examines the forest communities of the Pathariya Hill Complex over a 75-year interval to assess long-term changes in species composition, diversity, structure, and successional patterns. The present investigation was carried out with in the same six sites, closely corresponds with those established in the previous studies during 1951–52 and 2001–02. Comparison with earlier assessments reveals substantial shifts in community composition and ecological structure. Tectona grandis , overexploited in the 1950, has re-emerged as the dominant species across several communities, whereas disturbance-tolerant species such as Butea monosperma and Acacia leucophloea still remain widespread. Several ecologically important species including Boswellia serrata , Kydia calycina , Careya arborea and Ougeinia oojeinensis have disappeared entirely. Diversity analyses show a decline in tree richness and evenness since 2001–02, particularly at sites experiencing intense human pressure. Tree density decreased sharply by 53% over 25 years, while basal area remained relatively stable except at heavily disturbed sites. Spatial distribution patterns indicate predominantly random distribution in trees, while shrubs and herbs maintain contagious pattern across study sites. Disturbance-driven canopy openings may have facilitated the proliferation of Lantana camara and other invasive species, restructuring understory dynamics and altering successional pathways. Successional analysis indicates that Acacia leucophloea , Butea monosperma , and Tectona grandis are likely to dominate the future communities. Overall, the findings underscore the persistent impact of anthropogenic pressures causing changes in projected climaxes as proposed 75 and 25 years ago.