Dandeli Forest

• 09 Oct 2023

Source: DTE

Why in News?

The Dandeli forest in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district, known for its diverse wildlife and ecosystem, faces substantial environmental shifts due to changing climate patterns and human interventions.

What are the Key Points Related to Dandeli Forest?

• Dandeli forest is located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka and is part of the Western Ghats, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot.
• The forest is known for its rich biodiversity, including a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an important wildlife habitat.
• The Kali Tiger Reserve is a protected area adjacent to the Dandeli Forest.
  • The Tiger Reserve comprises two important protected areas of the region viz., Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary and Anshi National Park.

What are the Concerns Related to the Dandeli Forest Ecosystem?

• Impact of Climate Change:
  • Changing rainfall patterns and rising temperatures due to climate change have led to alterations in the forest ecosystem and a decrease in grasses in recent years.
• Invasive Species - Eupatorium Weed:
  • The invasive eupatorium weed is replacing native grasses in the forest undergrowth, impacting herbivores as it is not a preferred food source and is susceptible to fires.
• Historical Changes:
  • Historical changes, including forest transformations during the colonial era, have affected the forest's character, changing it from semi-evergreen to moist deciduous forests.
• Forest Fires and Environmental Impact:
  • The suppression of controlled fires (Slash and Burn) during the British era and the introduction of non-native eupatorium weed have led to uncontrolled forest fires, affecting the forest ecosystem.
• Impact on Herbivores and Predators:
  • Decreased grasses have impacted the herbivore population, influencing the prey base for predators like leopards and tigers, resulting in increased conflicts with humans and predation on local cattle.

Conclusion

• Addressing these evolving environmental challenges necessitates urgent and sustainable conservation efforts.
• Adaptive strategies must be formulated to mitigate the impacts of climate change on ecosystems and the communities dependent on them.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. From the ecological point of view, which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? (2017)

(a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
(b) Nallamala Forest
(c) Nagarhole National Park
(d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve

Ans: (a)

Q. Which one of the following National Parks has a climate that varies from tropical to subtropical, temperate and arctic? (2015)

(a) Khangchendzonga National Park
(b) Nandadevi National Park
(c) Neora Valley National Park
(d) Namdapha National Park

Ans: (d)

Q. Which of the following Protected Areas are located in Cauvery basin? (2020)

1. Nagarhole National Park
2. Papikonda National Park
3. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (c)