Ecological Characterization of Asi Ganga Sub Basin Using Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System Technologies

Abstract

The Asi Ganga Sub-basin also displays all the characteristics of important Himalayan ecosystem. The present study conducted in the area was a documentation of state of biodiversity and community dependence on natural resources in general and floral, faunal with special emphasis on birds and butterfly, and community dependency on medicinal plants, fuelwood consumption and eco-tourism activities. The floral diversity assessment recorded a total of 508 plant species belonging to 337 genera and 110 families that include 57 tree species, 82 shrub species and 369 herb species. Soil was observed to be rich in nutrients, however, due to various anthropogenic activities soil quality in some areas has affected.The area supports a variety of faunal communities including birds (263 species), butterfly (112 species), mammals (36 species), amphibians and reptiles (13 species), fishes (4 species) along with diverse moths, dragonflies, bees, beetles and many others. Among both the flora and fauna, a number of species are globally threatened and endemic to western Himalaya or Himalaya. The practices like medicinal plants collection (78 species), fuelwood collection, grazing and tourism are widespread seems to be damaging the ecological setting of the study area. The ecosystem is observed to be affected due to anthropogenic pressure and climate change issues enhancing ecosystem vulnerability of the Asi Ganga Sub-basin. Thus, the study suggests that an integrated socio-economic and ecological approach in convergence with cross sectorial program need to be undertaken, however, enhancement in protection level from Reserve Forest to Wildlife sanctuary would be the first step for better conservation and management of the area. newline