As many as three locations in Kerala — Vellayani freshwater lake in Thiruvananthapuram, mangrove forests at Chettuva, and a sacred grove at Kalasamala that is home to a critically endangered species of tree — could soon be sporting the biodiversity heritage site (BHS) tag.
In a move that is expected to provide an impetus to the restoration and protection of the rich ecosystems, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) has initiated steps to declare the three places as BHS. The board has completed a biodiversity evaluation of the sites with the help of the panchayat-level biodiversity management committees (BMCs). The local bodies have also adopted resolutions urging the government to declare the areas as BHS.
KSBB chairman Oommen V. Oommen said the areas were identified for their ecological significance and the need for strong conservation measures. Member Secretary Dinesan Cheruvat told The Hindu that a participatory biodiversity management programme would be worked out for each of the three sites.
The Vellayani lake and its catchment of 490 hectares constitute a unique freshwater ecosystem, providing habitat for several species of birds and fish. More than 100 avian species, including 23 species of migratory birds, have been recorded from the lake and the paddy fields of Punchakkari. The lake also harbours 42 species of fish, of which four are near-threatened and two, vulnerable.
Spread over 8.75 acres, the proposed BHS at Chettuva in Thrissur comprises a dense mangrove patch on an island in the backwaters. Studies have revealed the presence of 12 mangrove species at the location. The Forest Department has initiated steps to declare the area as a bird sanctuary and reserve forest.
Less than 200
Located at the foot of a laterite hill, the sacred grove at Kalasamala, Thrissur, is part of a fragmented freshwater swamp and is known to be one of the very few natural habitats of the critically endangered tree species Syzigium travancoricum. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species estimates that the population of the tree is less than 200.
Last week, the KSBB had completed the initial formalities for the declaration of the first BHS in Kerala at Ashramam in Kollam district, home to one of the few remaining mangrove forests in the State. The board expects the formal declaration in three to six months.