Galathea National Park UPSC
Galathea National Park is a national park located in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. The national park covers an area of approximately 110 square kilometers (42 square miles) and was established in 1992 to protect the unique biodiversity and fragile ecosystems of the region.
The Galathea National Park is named after the Danish expedition ship "Galathea," which visited the area in the 19th century. It is known for its pristine rainforests, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning coastal landscapes. The park is home to various endemic and endangered species, including the Nicobar megapode, Nicobar pigeon, saltwater crocodile, and giant robber crab.
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Galathea National Park Location
Galathea National Park is a national park located in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It is situated on the island of Great Nicobar, which is part of the Nicobar Islands which lie in the eastern Indian Ocean (Bay of Bengal).
Campbell Bay National Park is located adjacent to Galathea National Park, separated by a 12-kilometer forest buffer zone. This buffer zone acts as a transitional area between the two parks and provides an additional layer of protection for the ecosystems and wildlife.
Galathea National Park Nearest Airport:
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have just one airport, Port Blair.
Galathea National Park Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station is Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 1623 km away.
Galathea National Park History
Galathea National Park in the Nicobar Islands has a relatively short history compared to other national parks in India. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Establishment: Galathea National Park was established in 1992. The park was named after the Danish expedition ship "Galathea," which visited the region in the 19th century.
Recognition as Biosphere Reserves: In 1989, Great Nicobar Island Biosphere Reserve was declared by the Government of India. Galathea National Park forms part of Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, which also includes the larger Campbell Bay National Park.
Recognition as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves: In 2013, the Great Nicobar Island Biosphere Reserve was designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and included in World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO.
Galathea National Park Area
Galathea National Park is estimated to cover an area of approximately 110 square kilometers (42 square miles). This area includes the diverse habitats, rainforests, coastal areas, and marine ecosystems found on the island of Great Nicobar.
Galathea National Park are is part of Great Nicobar Island Biosphere Reserve.
Galathea National Park Hills
Galathea National Park, located in the Nicobar Islands, does indeed encompass hills within its protected area. Great Nicobar Island, where the national park is situated, features a varied topography that includes hills and mountains.
The island's terrain consists of undulating hills, with the highest peak being Mount Thullier, also known as Mount Galathea, which stands at an elevation of around 642 meters (2,106 feet) above sea level. These hills contribute to the diverse ecosystems and provide habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna.
Galathea National Park River
There are several perennial rivers on Great Nicobar Island, including the Galathea River, Jubilee River, Amrit Kaur River, Dak Aniang River, and Dak Tayal River. These rivers originate from Mount Thullier and flow through the island.
(1) Galathea River:
The Galathea River is one of the prominent rivers in the area, originating from Mount Thullier and flowing southwards for approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) before emptying into the sea at Galathea Bay near the southern tip of the Great Nicobar Island.
(2) Jubilee River:
The Jubilee River is a perennial river that traverses through park. It is one of the major water bodies in the region and plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance within the park.
(3) Amrit Kaur River:
The Amrit Kaur River is another significant river within the park. It also originates from Mount Thullier and flows through the forested landscapes, contributing to the freshwater ecosystems and supporting the park's biodiversity.
(4) Dak Aniang River:
The Dak Aniang River is one of the rivers that originates from Mount Thullier. It adds to the water resources and sustains the diverse flora and fauna within the park.
(5) Dak Tayal River:
The Dak Tayal River is another river that originates from Mount Thullier and flows through the park. It contributes to the freshwater ecosystems and provides habitats for various aquatic species.
These rivers, along with their tributaries and associated riparian habitats, support a variety of flora and fauna, including aquatic plants, fish, reptiles, and birds. They also provide water sources for wildlife within Galathea National Park, making them integral to the park's overall ecosystem health.
Galathea National Park Tribe
Galathea National Park is home to the indigenous Shompen community. The Shompen are one of the indigenous tribes residing in the Nicobar Islands, including Great Nicobar Island where the national park is located. The Shompen have a unique culture, language, and way of life that are distinct from other indigenous communities in the region.
Galathea National Park Flora
Galathea National Park is known for its diverse flora and rich vegetation. The park is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, which is renowned for its high species diversity and endemism.
The flora of Galathea National Park includes a variety of plant species, ranging from lush rainforest vegetation to coastal and mangrove ecosystems. Some notable plant species found in the park may include:
(1) Rainforest Trees:
The park is home to a range of rainforest tree species, such as Dipterocarpus spp., Hopea spp., Shorea spp., and Garcinia spp. These tall, majestic trees dominate the canopy and form the backbone of the forest.
(2) Epiphytes:
Epiphytic plants, including orchids, ferns, and mosses, are common in the rainforest. They grow on the trunks and branches of trees, utilizing them for support and access to light.
(3) Medicinal Plants:
The region is known to host several medicinal plant species that have been traditionally used by local communities for their therapeutic properties. Examples may include plants like Andrographis paniculata, Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Centella asiatica.
(4) Mangroves:
The coastal areas and estuaries within Galathea National Park are likely to have mangrove ecosystems. Mangrove species like Rhizophora spp., Avicennia spp., and Sonneratia spp. thrive in these brackish water environments.
(5) Coastal Vegetation:
Along the sandy shores and rocky cliffs, you may find plants adapted to the harsh coastal conditions, including salt-tolerant species like Casuarina equisetifolia (Casuarina tree), Pandanus spp., and Ipomoea pes-caprae (beach morning glory).
Galathea National Park Fauna (Galathea National Park Animals)
What animals are in the Galathea National Park?/Galathea National Park is famous for which animal?
Galathea National Park in the Nicobar Islands is known for its diverse fauna, with a range of wildlife species that inhabit the park's various ecosystems, including rainforests, coastal areas, and marine environments.
Here are some examples of the types of wildlife that found in the park:
Mammals:
- Crab-eating Macaques
- Nicobar Tree Shrews
- Palm Civets
- Wild Boar
- Giant Fruit Bat
Birds:
- Nicobar Megapode
- Green Imperial Pigeon
- Nicobar Pigeon
- Nicobar Scrub-fowl
- Edible Nest Swiftlet
- White Bellied Sea Eagle
- Nicobar Serpent Eagle
Reptiles:
- Water Monitor Lizard
- Reticulated Python
- Saltwater Crocodiles
Turtles:
- Giant Leatherback Turtles
- Malayan Box Turtles
Top Things to do in Galathea National Park
Exploring Galathea National Park offers a range of activities and experiences that showcase the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. Here are some top things to do in Galathea National Park:
- Trekking and Hiking
- Wildlife Spotting
- Visit Beaches and Coastal Areas
- Birdwatching
- Learn about Indigenous Cultures
- Nature Photography
- Snorkeling and Diving
- Picnicking and Relaxation
Galathea National Park UPSC Questions
Q. What is Galathea National Park best known for?
A. Galathea National Park is best known for its rich biodiversity, pristine rainforests, and unique ecosystems. Here are some key features that make Galathea National Park notable:
- Rainforest Conservation
- Endemic and Rare Species
- Indigenous Communities
- Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
- Ecotourism Potential
- Remote and Untouched Nature
Q. In which union territories is Galatea National Park located?
A. Galathea National Park is located in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands situated in the eastern Indian Ocean, between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The territory is governed by the Indian central government and has its capital at Port Blair. Galathea National Park specifically lies within the Great Nicobar Island, which is part of the Nicobar Islands in the Union Territory.
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