Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve UPSC
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located in the southern Western Ghats of India. It is named after the Agasthyamala Peak, which is one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats range. The biosphere reserve is spread across the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2016, Agasthyamala is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The reserve encompasses an area of approximately 3,500 square kilometers, encompassing the Neyyar, Peppara, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries.
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is known for its tropical evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered and endemic species. The region is renowned for its medicinal plants and is often referred to as the "cradle of traditional Indian medicine."
The biosphere reserve is of great ecological significance as it acts as a vital link between the high ranges of the Western Ghats and the low-lying plains of the southern tip of India. It serves as a habitat for numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
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Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Location
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is located in the southern Western Ghats of India, spanning the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve straddles the border of Pathanamthitta, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram Districts in Kerala and Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari Districts in Tamil Nadu.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is the Trivandrum International Airport, also known as Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. It is located in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala. The airport is approximately 40-50 kilometers away from the biosphere reserve, depending on the specific location within the reserve.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station, the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station serves as the primary railway station in Thiruvananthapuram. It is well-connected to major cities and towns across India. The distance between the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station and the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve varies depending on the specific entry point, but it is generally within a range of 30-50 kilometers.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve History
What is the history of Agasthyamala?
The history of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is closely linked to the conservation efforts and recognition of the ecological significance of the region.
Pre-Conservation Era: The Agasthyamala region has been inhabited by indigenous communities for centuries. The native tribes living in and around the biosphere reserve have coexisted with the rich biodiversity of the area, utilizing its resources sustainably and preserving their traditional knowledge of the local flora and fauna.
Establishment of Wildlife Sanctuaries: In the early to mid-20th century, the Indian government recognized the need to protect the unique biodiversity of the Western Ghats. As a result, several wildlife sanctuaries were established in the region to safeguard the diverse ecosystems. The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary were created, forming the core area of what would later become the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve.
Proposal for Biosphere Reserve Status: The idea of designating the Agasthyamala region as a biosphere reserve gained momentum in the 1990s. The Western Ghats, including the Agasthyamala region, was recognized as a biodiversity hotspot of global significance. The unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and the presence of several endemic and endangered species further supported the proposal for biosphere reserve status.
Designation as a Biosphere Reserve: In 2001, government of India declared Agasthyamala as a biosphere reserve.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve UNESCO
Designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: In 2016, the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve was officially designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. UNESCO's designation is a significant recognition of the ecological importance and conservation value of the Agasthyamala region.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Area
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve covers an approximate area of 3,500 square kilometers. This area includes the core zones as well as the buffer and transition zones. The reserve is spread across the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 1828 km2 is in Kerala and 1672.36 km2 is in Tamil Nadu.
- Core area(s): 1,135
- Buffer zone(s): 1, 445
- Transition zone(s): 920
- Total : 3,500
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve consist of-
- Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
- Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Hills
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is characterized by its hilly terrain as it is located in the southern Western Ghats of India. The biosphere reserve derives its name from the Agasthyamala Peak, which is one of the prominent hills in the region.
Agasthyamala Peak, also known as Agasthya Malai, stands at an elevation of approximately 1,868 meters (6,129 feet) above sea level. It is the highest peak in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve and one of the significant landmarks in the area.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve River
Which river flows through Agasthyamalaa Biosphere Reserve?
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is traversed by several rivers and streams, which contribute to the diverse ecosystems and provide crucial water resources to the region. Here are some of the prominent rivers and water bodies associated with the biosphere reserve:
(1) Neyyar River:
The Neyyar River is one of the major rivers flowing through the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. It originates from the Agasthyamala hills and flows through the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The Neyyar Dam, located on the river, forms a reservoir that provides water for irrigation and power generation.
(2) Karamana River:
The Karamana River is not directly within the boundaries of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve but is located in close proximity. It originates from the Agasthyakoodam Peak, which is part of the biosphere reserve. The river flows through Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, passing by the outskirts of the reserve.
(3) Shendurney River:
The Shendurney River is another important watercourse in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. It originates from the Agasthyamala hills and flows through the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary. The river provides water to the surrounding ecosystems and supports the diverse flora and fauna in the sanctuary.
(4) Tamirabarani River:
The Tamirabarani River originates in the Agasthyamala Hills in the Western Ghats and flows through the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. It covers a total length of approximately 128 kilometers before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The river is considered a lifeline for the region as it provides water for various purposes, including drinking water, irrigation, and agriculture. The Tamirabarani River supports the agricultural activities in the surrounding areas, and its water is utilized for paddy cultivation and other crops.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Tribe
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is home to several indigenous tribal communities who have been residing in the region for centuries. These tribes have a unique cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and a deep connection with the land and its resources.
Kani Tribe:
The Kani tribe is one of the prominent tribal communities in the Agasthyamala region. They are primarily found in the hilly areas of the biosphere reserve and have a rich knowledge of the local flora and fauna. The Kani tribe traditionally practiced hunting, gathering, and small-scale agriculture.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Flora
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is known for its rich and diverse flora, comprising a wide range of plant species, including endemic and rare varieties. The region's location in the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot, contributes to its exceptional floral diversity.
Here are some notable flora found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:
(1) Evergreen Forests:
The biosphere reserve is characterized by dense evergreen forests that are home to a variety of tree species. These forests are dominated by trees such as Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), Indian Kino (Pterocarpus marsupium), Vateria (Vateria indica), and several species of Ficus.
(2) Medicinal Plants:
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is renowned for its rich collection of medicinal plants. It is home to numerous species with medicinal properties, including Arogyapacha (Trichopus zeylanicus), a rare herb known for its medicinal value.
(3) Orchids:
The region is also known for its diverse orchid species. Several orchid species, including the rare and endemic Agasthiella kanyakumariensis, can be found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve.
(4) Grasslands:
The biosphere reserve features extensive grassland habitats that support a unique assemblage of grass species. These grasslands play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of the region and provide habitat for several endemic plant species.
(5) Wetland Flora:
The biosphere reserve is also home to wetlands, which harbor a distinct flora. Wetland plants like reeds, sedges, and aquatic plants thrive in these habitats, providing critical ecosystems for waterbirds and other wetland-dependent species.
(6) Endemic Species:
The Agasthyamala region is recognized for its high endemism, meaning it has a significant number of plant species found only in that specific area. The biosphere reserve is known to host several endemic plant species, contributing to its conservation significance.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Fauna (Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve Animals)
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is home to a rich and diverse range of fauna, including various mammal, bird, reptile, and amphibian species. The region's varied ecosystems, ranging from evergreen forests to grasslands, support a wide array of wildlife.
Here are some of the notable fauna found in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:
Mammals:
- Bengal Tiger
- Asian Elephant
- Indian Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Gaur (Indian Bison)
- Sambar Deer
- Spotted Deer
- Nilgiri Langur
- Lion-tailed Macaque
- Indian Giant Squirrel
- Common Palm Civet
- Indian Porcupine
Birds:
- Malabar Trogon
- Great Pied Hornbill
- Indian Pitta
- White-bellied Blue Flycatcher
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
- Black-and-Orange Flycatcher
- Black Bulbul
- Malabar Whistling Thrush
- Malabar Parakeet
- Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
- Indian Cormorant
- Painted Stork
Reptiles:
- King Cobra
- Indian Rock Python
- Malabar Pit Viper
- Common Vine Snake
- Indian Monitor Lizard
- Indian Chameleon
- Green Keelback
- Malabar Flying Frog
- Travancore Tortoise
- Mugger Crocodile
Top Things to do in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve:
- Trekking
- Wildlife Safari
- Birdwatching
- Visit Tribal Villages
- Nature Photography
- Explore Waterfalls
- Medicinal Plant Tours
- Camping and Nature Walks
- Visit Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Cultural Experiences
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. In which state is the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve located?/Which are the states in which the Agasthyamala biosphere is spread?
A. The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve is located in the state of Kerala, India. It spans across the southernmost part of the Western Ghats mountain range.
Q. What does the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve consist of?
A. Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve consist of
- Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
- Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
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