North-East India, comprising of eight states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim – holds a unique position in the country’s biodiversity landscape. It is recognized by the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot as being one of Earth’s most diverse places.
Biodiversity of North-East India, its Key Characteristics
- Floral Diversity Around 8,000 species of plants are found here, which is nearly 40% the total number of plant species in India. Rhododendrons and Orchids are just a few examples.
- Animal Diversity North-East India is home to around 300 species of mammal, 195 species of reptile, 80 species amphibian, and 1500 species avian.
- Sacred Groves In Meghalaya, and Manipur communities maintain sacred groves – patches of forest that are left uncut due to religious belief. This contributes significantly to the conservation of biodiversity.
- Protected areas: Kaziranga National Park is one of the most prominent wildlife refuges and national parks in this region. Other notable ones include Manas National Park and Namdapha National Park.
Floral Diversities
North-East India has a wide range of flowers.
- Rhododendrons: It is mainly found in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and the high altitude regions of Sikkim.
- Orchids: The region is home to over 800 orchid species including Blue Vanda.
- The medicinal plants: North-East India is home to over 500 plant species with medicinal properties that are used in traditional medicines.
Faunal diversity
There is a wide variety of fauna in the region.
- Mammals: Among the notable species are the Indian elephant and rhinoceros.
- Birds: Ornithologists will be in heaven with the likes of the Snow partridge and White-winged Wood Duck.
- Amphibians, Reptiles, and Other Animals Included are the King Cobra and the Rarely seen Rainbow frog.
Sacred Groves
The sacred groves of Meghalaya and Manipur, which are revered by local communities for their spiritual and cultural significance, have been protected. These groves are reservoirs of native species including:
- Deiphonormaphia Trees: Rarely found in other places, Endemic trees.
- Holistic Habitats The areas are home to a wide range of species, from tiny insects to giant mammals. They act as a repository for biodiversity.
Protected areas
North-East India is home to a vast network of protected zones:
- Kaziranga National Park: It is also the home of elephants, birds and other species.
- Manas National Park: The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s rich in bird and mammal diversity.
- Namdapha National Park The largest of all national parks and known for the diversity of its flora.
Conservation Challenges
- Deforestation & habitat loss
- Urbanization and industrialization
- The illegal wildlife trade and poaching
- Climate Change Impacts
Included in conservation efforts are:
- Conservation projects based on community participation
- The Biological Diversity Act of 2002 is an example of a government initiative and legislation.
- Participation of NGOs in international cooperations
Questions about Biodiversity of North-East India
1. Why does North-East India have a reputation as a biodiversity hotspot in the world?
North-East India has been dubbed a biodiversity hotspot because of its high species diversity and endemism levels, as well as the unique ecosystems such tropical forests and alpine meadows. Geographic complexity, climate and cultural diversity in the region further increase its biological wealth.
2. What threats are there to the biodiversity of North-East India
Deforestation and habitat fragmentation are major threats, as well as poaching, the illegal wildlife trade, expansion of agriculture, development of infrastructure, climate change, and impacts on ecosystems. This leads to the destruction of ecosystems and loss of species.
3. How can sacred groves help conserve biodiversity?
The sacred groves consist of tracts that are preserved as part of local culture and religion. They are biodiversity repositories that protect endemic species and other rare ones.
4. What is the most prominent mammal species found in North-East India
The One-horned Rhinoceros, Indian Elephant, Red Panda, Hoolock Gibbon, Snow Leopard, and Clouded leopard are all prominent mammal types.
5. How does the Government promote biodiversity conservation?
Government promotes biodiversity through various means, including establishing wildlife protected areas, implementing legislation such as the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, conducting programs to raise awareness, and assisting community conservation initiatives.
6. What role does community-based conservation play in this region?
Conservation efforts that are community-based involve the local communities to manage and protect natural resources. These initiatives make use of traditional knowledge and practice, which fosters a sense ownership and responsibility in locals.
7. What is the main flora in North-East India?
The key flora includes Rhododendrons and Orchids. Other species are Aconitums (a medicinal plant) and Deiphonormaphias.
8. What impact does climate change have on biodiversity in North-East India
Climate change can affect biodiversity via shifts in temperatures and precipitation, resulting in species migration and increased vulnerability to illnesses. It can lead to the loss of some species and ecosystems.
9. What are the most important national parks for biodiversity in your region?
Kaziranga National Park is known for the One-horned Rhinoceros, Manas National Park which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Namdapha National Park has diverse flora & fauna and Nameri National Park for its bird diversity.
10. What can you do to help conserve biodiversity as an individual?
Volunteering with non-profits, participating in local conservation programmes, spreading awareness and reducing ecological footprints, as well as supporting sustainable practices can all help to support biodiversity conservation.
