Special Habitats

Beyond their inherent biodiversity, mangroves serve as Kerala’s natural defence system. Their dense roots stabilise the coastline, acting as barriers against cyclones and tsunamis. They also filter seawater intrusion, maintaining the quality of inland water sources. Additionally, the local population utilises dry mangrove branches as a sustainable source of firewood.

Though it is not widespread across the State, Kerala’s mangrove forests boast a surprising richness in plant and animal life. These forests are primarily located in the upper regions of estuaries, lagoons, backwaters and creeks, providing crucial habitat for a variety of species. Notably, all districts in Kerala except Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Palakkad and Wayanad have some mangrove cover, with Kannur district boasting the largest extent. Despite their ecological significance, the total area of Kerala’s mangrove forests is estimated to be less than 50 square kilometers.

Despite their immense value, Kerala’s mangroves face several threats. Land reclamation for urbanisation, unsustainable aquaculture practices, the felling of trees for fuel and fodder, unclear land ownership rights and various land-use practices all contribute to the decline of these vital ecosystems.

In conclusion, Kerala’s mangroves represent a unique and valuable coastal ecosystem. While facing various challenges, these diverse forests play a crucial role in the state’s ecological and economic well-being. Protecting and restoring these vital habitats is essential for ensuring the health of Kerala’s coast and the well-being of its communities.

Kerala’s coastlines flourish with a unique and crucial ecosystem: mangrove forests. These dense clusters of trees, locally called “Kandal,” thrive in the marshlands bordering rivers and backwaters. Despite their seemingly inhospitable environment, mangroves play a critical role in protecting Kerala’s delicate balance.

Mangroves play a vital role in the lives of coastal communities. They provide a safe haven for migratory birds, serve as breeding grounds for numerous fish and prawn species and act as natural filters, helping to control pollution and prevent soil erosion. Additionally, various local communities rely on mangroves for resources such as firewood and fodder, highlighting their economic importance.

The rich landscape of Kerala’s mangroves is woven from a variety of plant species. Some common examples include Acanthus illicifolius, Avicennia officinalis, Rhizophora apiculata and Sonneratia caseolaris. Unfortunately several species, like Azima tetracantha and Ceriops tagal, have vanished from the Kerala coast, while others like Calamus rotang and Syzygium travancoricum face the threat of extinction.

Kerala’s Mangrove Richness

Kerala holds the distinction of having the most diverse mangrove growth in India. Spanning over 7.55 square kilometers, Kannur district possess the state’s largest mangrove expanse. These tidal forests, also known as coastal woodlands, are a haven for a rich tapestry of marine and terrestrial life, many of them facing threats.

Threats to a Fragile Ecosystem

Unfortunately, Kerala’s mangrove forests face significant threats due to rapid coastal development. Over the past 50 years, human activity has led to a drastic decline in mangrove cover. Rising land prices and population pressures have driven the conversion of these marshlands for construction, agriculture and aquaculture projects. Inadequate regulations and enforcement have further exacerbated the problem.

Conservation Efforts

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Kerala Forest Department along with the local government bodies and NGOs are actively working to conserve Kerala’s remaining mangroves. These efforts include raising awareness among private landowners and local communities about the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems. Additionally, responsible tourism initiatives are promoting mangrove tourism, fostering a sense of appreciation for these natural wonders.

These wetland ecosystems play a vital role, supporting countless people through the provision of essential goods and services. Unfortunately, rapid urbanisation have encroached upon these wetlands in the past, fragmenting their natural connectivity and destroying vegetation. While the exact rate of wetland loss remains unquantified, the qualitative degradation is somewhat evident. Pollution, eutrophication (excessive nutrient levels), encroachment, reclamation for development, mining and biodiversity loss are the primary threats to these ecosystems.However, over the past five years, several management programs have been initiated to ensure sustainable wetland management.

The State Wetland Authority Kerala (SWAK), established under the Department of Environment, oversees wetland management. SWAK focuses on policy development, regulatory frameworks, integrated management, capacity building, research and awareness. It collaborates with various stakeholders to ensure the sustainable use and protection of these valuable ecosystems.

Further, the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) has developed management plans for key lakes like Vembanad, Sasthamcotta and Ashtamudi. There’s also active involvement from NGOs in monitoring and conservation efforts. Community-based organisations across the state are playing a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for wetland protection.

Kerala boasts of more than 200 wetland areas, covering about one-fifth of the State’s land area. The State consists a network of 44 rivers, with three flowing eastward. Two of these, Bharathapuzha and Periyar, exceed 200 kilometers in length and hold the distinction of having the largest catchment areas. In the past, administrative boundaries for districts and villages often disregard natural water basin boundaries, making effective water resource planning at the watershed level challenging. However, of late, the thought process has changed and watershed level planning is being taken into account during the conception of any project.

The rivers of Kerala, along with dams, reservoirs and bridges, play a crucial role in irrigation, transportation and tourism. Hydroelectricity is another key benefit derived from these rivers. However, siltation is a growing concern for some older dams. Water sharing agreements exist, with rivers like Chalakudy and Periyar supplying water for irrigation in neighboring Tamil Nadu. Many smaller reservoirs serve as drinking water sources for towns.

Kerala has a limited number of inland lakes, with Pokkode, Sasthamkotta and Vellayani being notable examples. Sasthamkotta lake, a tributary of the Kallada River, provides drinking water to Kollam town. However, its water level is declining, raising concerns about future shortages. Large dams like Mullaperiyar and Idukki capture most of the Periyar River’s water. While Idukki generates hydroelectric power, the water is then released into the Muvattupzha river. Ithikkara River stands out as the sole river in Kerala without dams.

Ponds are typically found in areas facing seasonal water scarcity. These ponds can be linked to irrigation canals or associated with places of worship, often well-maintained. Another type of pond collects water in valleys for dry season irrigation. A comprehensive inventory of all ponds and tanks is crucial for proper water resource management. Finally, disused quarry ponds, often filled with freshwater, offer potential for various uses, including fish farming.

Kerala’s once robust network of canals, historically used for transportation throughout the State, has fallen into disuse due to the rise of road, rail and air travel. Steps are being taken to revive the network of canals.

Understanding and managing Kerala’s water resources effectively requires acknowledging their complexity and interconnectedness. Balancing the needs of irrigation, power generation, transportation, ecological health and the livelihoods of local communities remains an ongoing challenge. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, NGOs and local communities are essential to ensure the sustainable management of this vital resource.

Below 1800 meters, these grasslands exist alongside medium and high-elevation evergreen forests. Scattered trees, such as Wendlandia thrysoidea and Terminalia chebula, dot the landscape alongside dwarf palm trees like Phoenix. Notably, these grasslands are known for their tall grasses, reaching up to 1.5 meters in height. Species like Andropogon lividus and Chrysopogon zeylanicus are prominent members of this diverse community. Interestingly, areas frequently grazed or burned by fires favour the presence of unpalatable species like Cymbopogon flexuous and the fern Pteridium.

These grasslands are not just defined by grasses. A vibrant mix of herbaceous plants like Crotalaria, Desmodium and Hypericum interweave with the grasses, adding a layer of colourful diversity. Additionally, the monocarpic shrub, Phlebophyllum kunthianum, often dominates the landscape, creating a unique textural contrast.

Above 1800 meters, particularly in the Anamalai region, the grasslands undergo a transformation due to the colder climate. With temperatures dipping below zero degrees Celsius during winter, a distinct ecosystem emerges. The grass layer becomes shorter, typically under 1 meter and is dominated by species like Andropogon foulkesii and Chrysopogonorientalis. Shrubs like Berberis tinctoria and Gaultheria frangrantissima become prominent, while the occasional small Rhododendron arboreum adds a touch of tree-like beauty.

This diverse ecosystem provides a haven for a variety of herbaceous companions alongside the grasses. Anaphalis, Campanula and Cassia species paint the landscape with vibrant colours, while Droserapeltata and Centellaasiaticathrive in the occasional swampy pockets. This remarkable blend of grasses, shrubs and herbs creates a unique ecological niche, supporting a variety of plant and animal life in the highlands of Kerala.

The existence of these swamps was first documented in the 1960s by botanist and forest officer Krishnamurthy in areas like Kulathupuzha, Shendurney, and Anchal in the Travancore forests. They were later classified as “wild swamps” in the 1968 Revised Survey Report on Forest Transitions in India by Champion and Seth, which highlighted their ecological importance as sparsely forested, waterlogged areas.

Myristica swamps are primarily found in low-lying evergreen forest areas that remain waterlogged throughout the year due to recurring floods. The trees here, such as wild nutmeg species (e.g., Undapain, Chorapain, and Kothapain), exhibit unique adaptations to survive in swampy conditions. They possess stilt roots for structural support and pneumatophores (breathing roots) with air spaces to facilitate respiration in oxygen-poor environments.

Although Myristica swamps cover just 0.004% of Kerala’s total land area, they are critical biodiversity hotspots. They harbor 16.3% of the endemic species of the Western Ghats, including several rare and endemic species adapted to freshwater swamps. Notable Myristica swamp areas in Kerala includeKulathupuzha, Shendurney, Arippa, Madathara, Ammayambalam Pacha, Sasthamnada, Venkolla, Palode, Yechukulam, Katamankode, Anchal etc.

Despite their ecological richness, Myristica swamps face threats from habitat destruction, developmental activities, and climate change. Conservation of these swamps is vital, as they not only support diverse life forms but also maintain ecological balance, act as natural water reservoirs, and protect local livelihoods.

These habitats are a living link to the ancient history of the Western Ghats and demand special protection efforts to preserve their ecological legacy for future generations.