Jalaplavit_vol10_no2_June-July_2020

Vol. 10, No. 2 June-July, 2020 (The World Environment Day-2020 Special) ISSN 2321-1881 exploring wetlands Biodiversity of Myristica Swamps Mangroves of India Wetland Fishes Madanpur Wetlands of Bihar Otter-An Indicator of Freshwater Ecosystems Slaty-breasted Rail in Gujarat Impact of Wetland Vegetation Removal on Whistling-Ducks Birds of Tsunami-created Wetlands Urban Wetlands

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881) Vol.10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Avichal Tatu Avichal Tatu Editorial Jalaplavit, Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Dr. Ketan Tatu…………………………………………………………….....................3 (marking World Environment Day-2020) Relics of the Past: Biodiversity of the Myristica Swamps of Founding Editor: Dr. Ketan Tatu the Western Ghats Priya Ranganathan.............................................................4 Supporting Editors: Dr. Amita Tatu & Avichal Tatu Status of Indian Mangroves and a Way Forward for their Conservation Anoop Raj Singh & Nehru Prabakaran…………………………………………...…13 Core Team Diversity of Wetland Fishes in Pailan, Southern West Bengal Directors, Foundation for Ecological Welfare(FEW) Priyankar Chakraborty & Rahul Biswas...................................22 (a not-for-profit Foundation) Madanpur Wetlands: The Last Paradise of Bihar? Principal Technical Advisor Divyashree Rana...............................................................26 Prof. James T. Anderson, USA Otter as an Indicator of Freshwater Ecosystems Dr. Akshaya M. Mane, Sanatomba Singh & Rabindra Sharma........31 Senior Advisor: Dr. Raju Vyas Current Status and Conservatory Challenges of Reviewing Support: Dr. Anika Tere Valanthakad Mangroves, Kerala, India. Dr. Vinod Kumar Nathan.....................................................38 Front Cover Photo (by Avichal Tatu) Bar-headed Geese, Chilika Lake Rare Slaty-breasted Rail in Vadodara (Gujarat, India) Hitesh M. Ameta, Hiren J. Patel and Dr. Geeta S. Padate…..........44 Views expressed by the contributors in ‘Jalaplavit’ are not necessarily those of Impact of Wetland Vegetation Removal from a Sewage Treat editors. Editors are not responsible for -ment Plant on Lesser Whistling-Duck in Tamil Nadu, India Prasath Selvaraj and Rajarathinavelu Nagarajan.....................50 any kind of plagiarism by any author. Glimpses of 2004 Tsunami-created Wetlands and their Birds, South Andaman, India Neelam Purti, V. Shiva Shankar, C. Ramayya, Satyajit Halder.....54 India’s Perspective on Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem Kanchan Puri and Dr. Ritesh Joshi.........................................62 Beauty in Swamps Sushmita Karmakar...........................................................66 Importance of a Small Village Pond for Migratory Waterbirds- A Case Study of Keorak Village, Kaithal District, Haryana Gurpreet Singh, Joystu Dutta1 and Tarun Kumar Thakur............74 Retain, Restore and Conserve Urban Wetlands Salma Sultana Barbhuiya...................................................................79

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol.10, No. 2, June-July 2020 EDITORIAL Ketan Tatu As per an estimate, half of the Avichal Tatu world's wetlands have been destroyed as compared to those which existed a political motive of claiming a huge piece century ago. As per TEEB, in Asia and of the land as its own. A nation can also some other regions of the world, coastal plan to cause water scarcity or flooding in wetlands are being destroyed at an annual a rival neighbouring country by taking rate of 1.6%. TEEB has also estimated that “smart” political decisions pertaining to 36,000 sq.km of total mangrove coverage damming/not damming a river flowing has been lost since last four decades. As through neighbouring rival countries. So, per a WRI’s estimate, the earth had lost aren’t the petty political uses of lotic her mangrove cover at a rate of 0.13% per wetlands getting priority over their “Wise annum between 2002 and 2012. Use”! A section of the human race talks and strives for the wise use of wetlands, So what; the modern man would but a large number of people have been say! Even if he may not say it openly, the doing “overwise” things with wetlands daily acts of the modern human society like draining, dredging, filling, tempering reflects that technological development with river channels, dumping our wastes and technology-intoxicated wars are in wetlands and so on...! critically important for it rather than harmonious living with nature! Human Let’s understand that wetland race can alter a river channel with a petty conservation is for men own balanced life, rather than the balance of nature! - Ketan Tatu 3

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Relics of the Past: Biodiversity of the Myristica Swamps of the Western Ghats Priya Ranganathan Email: [email protected] Priya Ranganathan Paddy fields are a common repurposing of swamps and other low-lying wetlands An Introduction to Freshwater water level fluctuations (Bhat & Swamp Ecosystems Kaveriappa, 2009). Swamps are classified as category 4C/FSI Tropical India is home to a variety of Freshwater Swamp Forests (Champion and Seth, 1980). Nowadays, swamps natural and man-made wetlands are often found in pockets of forested ranging from mangrove forests and land, relatively isolated due to coral reefs to lakes, ponds, reservoirs, increasing human activity and land use paddy fields and swamps. Swamps can change around their periphery. Major be either estuarine, such as mangrove threats to freshwater swamps in the swamps, or freshwater, as seen in the Western Ghats include conversion to hadlus, Eleocarpus swamps, and paddy fields or arecanut and teak Myristica swamps of the Western plantations (Bassi et al., 2014). Ghats biodiversity hotspot, Himalayan Swamps are India’s least understood foothills, and the Doon Valley. These wetlands and receive low conservation freshwater swamps are found in low- priority on both national and global lying regions and depend upon rainfall and seasonal flooding to maintain 4

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 policy scales. However, they are are evergreen, water-tolerant trees valuable for their many ecosystem with stilt and knee roots that help services. them stay erect and perform vital functions in a submerged environment. The Ecology of Myristica Swamps Their thin, moist bark and large leaves allow for rapid shedding of water. Myristica swamps are a type of Myristica swamps were first tropical freshwater swamp forest discovered in Travancore in 1960 and predominantly composed of species in are native to the Western Ghats of the family Myristicaceae Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and (Krishnamoorty, 1960). Four genera Maharashtra. These are some of the and 16 species within this family are most primitive ecosystems on earth. found in India. Members of this family Priya Ranganathan Knee roots allow trees to perform basic functions in this swampy ecosystem 5

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Priya Ranganathan Pneumatophores allow for gas exchange between tree roots and the atmosphere despite a submerged environment Biodiversity in These Relic Swamp the Myristicacaea family (Dharmapalan Forests & Ashokhan, 2013). Prominent tree Few studies have been conducted on Myristica swamps and a species include Syzgium small fraction of these focus on qualifying swamp biodiversity. travancoricum (Gamble), However, thus far, at least 79 tree species, 26 shrubs, 27 climbers, and 44 Gymnacranthera canarica (King), herb species have been recorded from in and around Myristica swamps and Myristica fatua var. magnifica (Bedd.), likely more species are yet to be discovered (Prabhugaonkar et al., Dipterocarpus indicus (Bedd.), 2014). More than 60 percent of trees recorded in these swamps belong to Mastixia arborea (Wight), Myristica malabarica (Lam.), and Semecarpus kathalekanensis (Das.) (Roby et al., 2014; Keshavachandra & Krishnakumar, 2016). Myristica swamps display high floristic endemism with total of 23 tree species 6

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 recorded as endemic to the Western (Karnataka), studies reported 26 Ghats. Apart from tree diversity, rare species of amphibians from Myristica tree ferns are dominant in swampy swamps (Ali et al., 2008). Few faunal areas. However, despite high diversity species are exclusively found in these in lower taxa, including algae and swamps; however, a monotypic frog fungi, there are no scientific studies on genus Mercurana myristicapalustris the diversity and composition of these was reported from Myristica swamps in taxa in swamp forests. the western foothills of the Agasthyamalai Hills of Kerala Myristica swamps also have high (Abraham et al., 2013). During the faunal diversity. A comprehensive monsoon, swamps have slower water study in the swamps of the southern flow as compared to other stretches of Western Ghats reported over 630 streams, thus forming ideal breeding species ranging from flatworms to grounds for frogs such as large mammals. The same study also Nyctibatrachus jog, N. kempholensis, recorded 14 species of freshwater and N. kumbhara in the central fishes and 56 species of amphibians Western Ghats. Post-monsoon (Nair et al., 2007; Jose et al., 2014). breeders such as those in the genus Myristica swamps serve as critical Micrixalus are found here as well. amphibian habitat and breeding grounds. In the central Western Ghats Samyamee Sreevathsa fDraofongrc, iMinsgaadFhlreuossgshePrrir-oMkjunedcoktweon'sf Micrixalus kottigeharensis, commonly known as the dancing India with ZSL inhabitant of Myristica swamps 7

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Studies have reported 206 2008). The researchers also recorded species of butterflies belonging to six 21 reptilians, including 13 species of families from the Myristica swamps of snakes. Of these, the Gunther’s Kerala (Sujitha et al., 2019). Eighty- supple skink (Lygosoma guentheri) and two plants in swamps were listed as Malabar pit viper (Trimersurus hosts for butterfly larvae, making malabaricus) are endemic to the swamps a crucial habitat for Western Ghats. Studies have recorded maintaining India’s butterfly diversity. 59 bird species from these swamps. The microclimate in and around these Large swamps such as Kathalekan in swamps makes them ideal for butterfly the central Western Ghats host the nesting and breeding. Furthermore, Indian great-horned owl (Bubo bubo). six endemic species of odonates were Birds such as the Oriental pied hornbill reported from freshwater swamps in (Anthracoceros albirostris), Malabar the Western Ghats; odonates are Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros indicators of ecosystem health and coronatus), Malabar Grey Hornbill their diversity is directly influenced by (Ocyceros griseus), and Mountain aquatic and terrestrial vegetation Imperial Pigeon (Ducula badia), as well health. Small changes in the as mammals such as the Malabar giant microhabitat within swamps can cause squirrel (Ratufa indica), lion-tailed large changes in odonate larvae macaque (Macaca silenus), and Nilgiri survival (Subramanian, 2007). Fish langur (Semnopithecus johnii) serve as species diversity extends across 16 seed dispersers for swamp-specialist species present in the perennial tree species in the Myristicaceae waters within these swamps in the family (Krishna & Somanathan, 2014). southern Western Ghats. Three of Additionally, the perennial water these species (Mystus malabaricus, sources in Myristica swamps attract Garra gotyla stenorhynchus, other large mammals endemic to the Salmostoma boopis) are endemic to Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. this biodiversity hotspot (Ali et al., 8

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Priya Ranganathan A Malabar pit viper drapes itself over the knobbly knee roots in a Myristica swamp in Sirsi, Karnataka Saving these Relic Swamp Forests small and exist outside of protected areas. Freshwater swamps are The Western Ghats is one of 34 ecologically sensitive areas, regions of global biodiversity hotspots, taking up high biodiversity and species richness, less than six percent of India’s and are known to be unique and largely terrestrial land cover (Das et al., irreplaceable if degraded. Many 2006). This ancient mountain range swamps are in reserve forests, which has high levels of topographic and are not awarded the same level of climate heterogeneity, and harbour protection as national parks or wildlife high endemism. Despite its high sanctuaries, while others fall within biodiversity, however, only nine community-protected sacred groves percent of the Western Ghats falls and are protected on religious within India’s protected area network. grounds. However, these designations Today, only 6.8 percent of the original do not protect swamps from land use 1,82,500 sq. km. of primary forest conversion, especially drainage for remain intact in the Western Ghats hydel projects or repurposing for (Gunawardene et al., 2007). paddy fields, teak, or arecanut plantations (Vijayakumar & Vasudeva, Myristica swamps face a high 2011). Draining swamps was found to threat of destruction than surrounding have higher instances of flooding and evergreen forest types as they are 9

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 erosion downstream during the swamp-dwelling trees that depend monsoons, while leading to dry upon perennially flowing water to streambeds during the rest of the year. disperse seeds and maintain ecological Simultaneously, the soil loses its processes. In order to ensure the ability to absorb and retain water, survival of these primitive swamp causing a decline in quality and forests and their astounding impacting agriculture (Chandran & biodiversity, higher protection must be Mesta, 2006). In the Western Ghats, conferred upon them. A co- remaining swamps are highly management approach involving fragmented and exploited for non- communities, local stakeholders, and timber forest products, medicinal the government will be a step towards plant collection, or diverted to irrigate increasing vigilance and protecting plantations and fields (Hegde et al., these rare freshwater swamp forests 2017). Diversion can be fatal to the that are relics of the past. Acknowledgements I am grateful to my research mentors assemblages in Myristica swamps of Dr. Jagdish Krishnaswamy, Dr. G. central Western Ghats, Karnataka, Ravikanth, and Dr. Aravind N.A. of India. In Proceedings of the ATREE, Bangalore for their continued Symposium on Environment Education support of my research work. and& Ecosystem Conservation. Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. References Bassi, N., M.D. Kumar, A. Sharma and Abraham, R.K., R.A. Pyron, B.R. Ansil P. Pardha-Saradhi (2014). Status of and A. Zachariah (2013). Two novel wetlands in India: A review of extent, genera and one new species of ecosystem benefits, threats and treefrog (Anura: Rhacophoridae) management strategies. Journal of highlight cryptic diversity in the Hydrology: Regional Studies, 2: 1-19. Western Ghats of India. Zootaxa, 3640: 177-189 Bhat, P.R. and K.M. Kaveriappa (2009). Ecological studies on Myristica swamp Ali, S., M.S. Chandran and T.V. 10 Ramachandra (2006). Faunal

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 forests of Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, assessment of landscape features and India. Tropical Ecology, 50(2): 329-33. cultural practices of sacred freshwater swamps in the central Western Ghats, Champion, H.G. and S.K. Seth (1968). India. Wetlands Ecology and A Revised Survey of the Forest Types Management, 26(1): 49-61. of India. New Delhi: Manager of Publications. Jose, J., K.K. Ramachandran, T.J. Roby, and P.V. Nair (2014). A Chandran, M.D.S and D.K. Mesta Preliminary Checklist of Amphibians in and around the Myristica swamp (2006). Myristica swamps. Sahyadri forests of Kulathupuzha, South Western Ghats. Journal of Entomology ENews, Issue 13, and Zoology Studies, 2(1): 11-18. http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/biodive rsity/sahyadri_enews/ newsletter/issue13/index.htm. Keshavachandra, K. and G. Das, A., J. Krishnaswamy, K.S. Bawa, Krishnakumar (2016). Seed M.C. Kiran, V. Srinivas and N.S. Kumar, K.U. Karanth (2006). Prioritisation of germination studies on conservation areas in the Western Ghats, India. Biological Conservation, Gymnacranthera canarica (King) Warb, 133: 16-31 a Vulnerable tree species of a highly threatened Myristica swamp ecosystem. Journal of Threatened Dharmapalan, B. and A. Asokhan Taxa, 8(7): 9009-9013. (2013). Myristica Swamps–Evolutionary Relics. Science Reporter: 45-48. Krishna, S. and H. Somanathan (2014). Secondary removal of Myristica fatua Gunawardene, N.R., D.A. Daniels, (Myristicaceae) seeds by crabs in Myristica swamp forests in India. I.A.U.N. Gunatilleke, C.V.S. Journal of Tropical Ecology 30: 259– 263. Gunatilleke, P.V. Karunakaran, G.K. Nayak and G. Vasanthy. (2007). A brief overview of the Western Ghats–Sri Krishnamoorthy, K (1960.) Myristica Swamps in the evergreen forests of Lanka biodiversity hotspot. Current Travancore. In Tropical Moist Evergreen Forest Symposium, Forest Science, 93(11): 1567-1572. Research Institute, Dehradun. Hegde, N., R. Ziegler, C. Greiser and H. Joosten (2017). A preliminary 11

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Nair, P.V., K.K. Ramachandran, K. Habitat distribution and conservation. Swarupanandan and T.P. Thomas In: Odonata-biology of dragonflies. (2007). Mapping biodiversity of the (ed. Tyagi). Scientific Publishers, Myristica swamps in Southern Kerala. Jodhpur, India: pp. 257-271. Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi 680653. Sujitha, P.C., G. Prasad and K. Sadasivan (2019). Butterflies of the Prabhugaonkar, A., D.K. Mesta and Myristica swamp forests of Shendurney M.K. Janarthanam (2014). First report Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern of three redlisted tree species from Western Ghats, Kerala, India. Journal swampy relics of Goa State, India. of Threatened Taxa, 11(3): 13320– Journal of Threatened Taxa, 6(2): 13333. 5503-5506. Vijayakumar, P.K. and R. Vasudeva Roby, T.J., J. Jose and P.V. Nair (2011). Characterization of soil (2014). Checklist of Flora of Myristica properties from freshwater swamps Swamps-A critically endangered and adjoining evergreen forest area. freshwater ecosystem of Southern Karnataka Journal of Agricultural Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Indian Sciences, 24(4): 601-602. Forester, 140: 608–616. Subramanian, K.A. (2007). Endemic Odonates of the Western Ghats: About the Author Priya Ranganathan is a researcher with ATREE, Bangalore, where she works on wetland ecosystem services and conservation. She holds a master’s degree from Duke University in ecosystem conservation science and management. She is a geologist by training and an avid science communicator, with over 30 articles published in print and online sources. 12

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Status of Indian Mangroves and a Way Forward for their Conservation 1Anoop Raj Singh & Nehru Prabakaran Email of corresponding author1: [email protected] Nehru Prabakaran Restoration projects have significantly increased mangrove cover at many sites in India, though number of restoration projects have also failed due to unscientific approaches Mangroves are coastal inter- that occur on the river mouth leading up to the sea (ii) fringing mangroves tidal vegetation occurring in the that usually occur on the island fringes (iii) deltaic mangroves that occur on lowlands of tropical and sub-tropical the large landscapes where major rivers drain into the sea. Having located regions across the world. Mangroves are in the transition zone between land and sea, mangroves act as a bio-shield typically shrubs and trees that during natural calamities (such as storm, hurricanes and tsunami) and primarily belong to the families protects the vulnerable coastal human Rhizophoraceae, Acanthaceae, Lythraceae, Combretaceae and Arecaceae. These coastal woodlands can be broadly categorized into three types, namely: (i) riverine mangroves 13

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 communities from monetary and infra- is perhaps the largest biodiversity structure loss. Also, mangroves are a record in the world mangrove great sink of carbon as they sequester ecosystem (Kathiresan, 2010). It is threefold higher carbon than any other evident from FSI (2019) report that terrestrial forest ecosystem, 20.4 times mangrove wetlands of eastern coast of higher than salt marshes and 231 times India are spatially larger, higher in higher compared to sea grasses (Alongi, diversity and have a complex network 2012). of tidal creeks as compared to western coast mangroves. This is mostly Latest estimates by FSI (2019) because the west coast is narrower and suggest that the area under mangrove steeper due to presence of Western cover in India is 4,975 km2, which is Ghats with no major west-flowing river. 0.15% of total geographic area of India On the other hand, the east coast has i.e. 3.3% of global and 8% of Asian relatively gentle slope with six major mangrove cover. These mangrove east flowing rivers, i.e. having forests are mainly found across all the presence of larger brackish water states of peninsular India, of which 58 bodies throughout the year. Apart from % of mangrove cover is shared by east- the duration and quality of fresh-water coast (West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra inflow (or salinity gradient), there are Pradesh, Tamil Nadu) with 64 vascular a few more important environmental plants (42 genera & 29 family), 29 % by factors that govern this multiple-use west coast (Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, ecosystem such as geomorphology of Gujarat) with 33 species (belong to 24 coast, micro and macro climatic genera & 19 family) and 13 % owned by conditions, tidal amplitude, sea water archipelagos of Andaman and Nicobar inundation and duration of dry period. Island with 43 plant species (30 genera and 23 family). Although India’s share Studies have indicated that in the world’s mangrove cover is small, despite the rising pressure of humans still it comprises 57% of the world’s on the coast-lines and decline in mangrove species with 46 true mangroves across the world, India has mangroves (Ragavan et al., 2016) and witnessed a steady increase in 86 mangrove associates (Kathiresan, mangrove cover over the past few 2010). In total there are 920 floral decades due to the restoration and species and 3091 faunal species, which conservation efforts from the 14

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 government and private sectors, pneumatophore roots, knee roots and especially along the western coast plank roots), viviparous mode of (Kathiresan, 2018). However, a slight reproduction, and sclerophyllous leaves decline (less the 1%) is recorded from (otherwise called as salt vomiting three Indian states, namely, Tamil leaves due to the presence of salt Nadu, West Bengal and Andaman & excreting glands on leaf surface) that Nicobar Islands that hold some of the enable mangroves to bear hot, dry largest mangrove forests of India (FSI, season with high salinity. The 2019). specialized root system and leaves of mangroves enable them to meet their Adaptation in mangrove plant to oxygen demand in waterlogged survive in harsh condition condition, through small openings in the form of sunken stomata and These forests are gifted with respiratory root. The viviparous specially structured breathing roots propagules—which encompass seeds (e.g. prop roots, small and large and embryos begins to germinate on the tree itself before falling on the Type of ground—of mangroves improves the threats probability of new recruitment. Natural Threats Man-made Mangroves are capable of coping Threats with sea level rise and inundation of salt water through accreting more 1. Sea level rise 1. Agriculture sediments either by trapping sediments expansion from the river water or degrading roots. This deposition of sediments 2. Erosion 2. Aquacultue allows coastal forest to maintain expansion surface elevation necessary for plant proliferation (Lovelock et al., 2015). 3. 3. Climate Sedimentation change Threats to mangrove Forest 4. Disease out- 4. Human These extremely important break Enchroachment coastal ecosystem are under great threats as 11(16%) of 70 mangrove 5. Invasive 5. Industrial species pollutant 6. Clear 6. Hydrological cutting alteration 7. Oil spill 7. Salinity 15

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 species in the world are at high level them into two classes i.e. natural and threat of extinction. Of these, seven man-made. Despite the categorizing, species, namely Sonneratia griffithii we understand that most of the natural (critically endangered), Heritiera threats are after effects of human fomes (endangered), and Brownlowia action. tersa, Phoenix paludosa, Aegialitis rotundifolia, Ceriops decendra and Rise in sea level induced by Sonneratia ovata (near threatened) climate change will be the greatest exist in India (Polidoro et al., 2010; challenge for mangrove conservation. Raghvan et al., 2016). With the advent The rate of sea level rise in Indo-pacific of satellite imagery, periodically region is 3.14 mm per year which (holds quantifiying the mangrove habitats loss the highest mangrove area and species is an eyeopener, especially after the diversity) is comparatively higher than disasterous effect of 2004 Indian ocean the global average 2.5 mm per year tsunami in Asia. A study suggests that (Chakraborty, 2010). Such a rapid currently mangrove forests occupy increase in sea level is resulting into 181,000 km2 area of tropical and landward shifting of mangroves, but subtropical coastline across the globe the high anthropogenic pressure on the (Alongi, 2002) with minimum loss rate coastal lines makes this impossible. of 1-3% per year, which is far ahead of Although mangrove ecosystem can cope global tropical forest loss, that is up with rise in sea level through estimated to be 0.5% per year physical (inorganic sedimentation, (Culbertson et al., 2009). This resulted ground water influx/soil swelling and in one third loss of coastal woodland deep land movements) and biological over the last 50 years. In contrast, India (litter deposition, sediment trap by has reported nominal growth of 929 sq. root and formation of algal mat) km in mangrove cover since 1987 (FSI, processes (Krauss et al., 2014), the 2017; FSI, 2019), therefore inherent slow rate of such processes environmental threats with higher may not match up to the rate of sea intensity and frequency are knoking at level rise. the fringes of Indian mangrove. To take proper preventive measures, threats Salinity is another important can be best understood by categorising factor that plays an important role in the growth and survival of mangroves. 16

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Nehru Prabakaran Dense mangrove vegetation like this plays a crucial role in maintaining coastal biodiversity and protecting coastal communities from natural disasters like tsunami Nehru Prabakaran Mangrove degradation due to natural and anthropogenic factors have immensely reduced their ecosystem services and capability to recover naturally 17

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 According to few physiological due to aquaculture development, studies mangroves are not salt lovers, agriculture expansion, climate change, rather salt tolerant, therefore clear cutting, enchroachment, chemial excessive increase in saline condition spills and industrial pollution. The retards seed germination, new major causes of world’s mangrove recruitment, stunted growth and deteriotion include agriculture (81%), development of mangroves (Ragavan et aquacalture (12%), developmental al., 2016; Sengupta and Banerjee, projects (2%) and rest (5%) by other 2010; Kathiresan, 2010). (Giri et al., 2008). Due to climate change, there is Environmental significance and increase in temperature, which may social economic values of alter root structure, seedling mangroves establishment and photosynthesis of mangroves flora (Kathiresan, 2010). Physically, mangrove ecosystem There is gradual increase in frequencies stabilizes the shores by protecting it of hurricanes and storms due to change from wind, waves and water currents in climate (Kathiresan, 2010), which in and helps in moderating the turn, changes salinity of water, site for devastating impact by natural disaster. new recruitment, inundation and Ecologically, these stabilized shores wetland sediment budget. Further, provide a conducive environment for disease outbreaks like “top dying breeding of organisms of various disease” have also played role in taxonomic groups. The complex above mangrove forest degradation, like in ground root system of mangrove retards Sundarbans, the abundance of Sundari water flow that not only encourages (Heritiera fomes) has significantly sediment to settle, but also inhibits its reduced due to top dying disease re-suspension. As a result, it provides (Kathiresan, 2010). virtuous site for innumerable flora & fauna to flourish. They also act as According to Polidoro et al. biological waste water treatment plant (2010) half (44 %) of the earth human by lowering the BOD as also possibly by population is living within the range of performing bio-remediation by 150 km from the sea coast. With such removing toxic elements carried by the heavily populated coastal zone, river water before mixing into sea. mangroves are under immense pressure 18

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 There is a large coastal human A study by Worthington & Spalding population who are directly dependent on these mangrove forest for wood, (2018) suggests that, around the logs, roof frame, columns, and beams. Apart from this, people avail specific globe, an area of 6665 km2 exists as twigs for weaving (basket, mats etc.) honey, thatch, edible fruits, medicines highly potential restoration sites, as non-timber forest product. It is also a source of livelihood in the form of within which 152 km2 area lies in coastal fisheries for them. These mono- specific stands sequester 25.5 million India. Using this mangrove tonnes of carbon per year and meets the global ocean requirement of restoration potential map, all the essential organic carbon (Polidoro et al., 2010). fringing countries should prioritise Hybrid of physical and ecological mangrove restoration. As a result, it factors gives a symbiotic relationship between mangrove forest and sea- can be a novel counter measure to grass/coral reef, as these tidal forest root prevents mud to reach sea grass reduce the impact of global and coral reef and in return sea grass and coral reef subsidise the storm warming and change in climate. water while moving towards inland. Economically, mangrove forests 2. Establishment of green belts and provide ecosystem services of worth buffer zones in and around the US$ 1.6 billion per year worldwide fringes of mangrove forest for (Polidoro et al., 2010). discouraging the direct provisional services acquired from the forest. Strategies to mitigate the threats 1. Among all the varied types of 3. Construction of dam, barrage and barriers over rivers needs to be natural ecosystems in the world, the checked on urgent basis, as the coastal woodlands seem to be the amount of sediment carriage with most sounding to be undergoing the river water is getting modified, reduction of carbon footprint. therefore changing the wetland soil elevation (which is important for plant growth). If not, there should be preparation for landward movement of mangrove (Lovelock et al., 2015). 4. Seizing the mangrove forest from isolation and connecting it with terrestrial forest system. 19

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Sundarbans is best example with 6. Core research and extensive data national park and mangrove forest collection should be focused on to in prolongation. create nationwide strong base line data. The data generated can be 5. For the protection of Mangroves used to identify important forest, strengthening of existing mangrove patches to be declared as laws like Indian Forest Act-1927, mangrove germ-plasm preservation Environmental Impact Assessment centres for better management and (EIA)-1986, Forest Conservation Act- conservation of woodlands 1980, Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) (Kathiresan, 2010). Notification, 2011 under EIA-1986 and Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act-2005 is required. References FSI. (2017). India State of forest report. Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehra Dun. Alongi, D. M. (2002). Present state and 58-59 pp. future of the world's mangrove forests. Environmental conservation, 29(3): FSI. (2019). India State of forest report. 331-349. Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehra Dun. 53-64 pp. Alongi, D. M. (2012). Carbon sequestration Giri, C., Z. Zhu, L. L. Tieszen, A. Singh, in mangrove forests. Carbon S. Gillette, J. A. Kelmelis (2008). management, 3(3): 313-322. Mangrove forest distributions and dynamics (1975–2005) of the tsunami‐ Chakraborty, S. (2010). Coastal affected region of Asia. Journal of environment of Midnapore, West Bengal: Biogeography, 35(3): 519-528. Potential threats and management. Journal of Coastal Environment, 1(1): 27-40. Kathiresan, K. (2010). Importance of mangrove forest of India. Journal of Culbertson, J., W. C. Dennison, R. W. coastal environment, 1(1): 11-26. Fulweiler, T. Hughes, E. L. Kinney, N. Marbá, I. Valiela (2009). Global loss of Kathiresan, K. (2018). Mangrove forests coastal habitats: Rates, causes and of India. Current Science, 114 (5): 976- consequences. C. M. Duarte (Ed.). Madrid, 981. Spain: Fundación BBVA. 20

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Krauss, K. W., K.L. McKee, C.E. Lovelock, areas of global concern. PloS one, 5(4), D.R. Cahoon, N. Saintilan, R. Reef, L. e10095. Chen (2014). How mangrove forests adjust to rising sea level. New Ragavan, P., A. Saxena, R. S. C. Jayaraj, Phytologist, 202(1), 19-34. P.M. Mohan, K. Ravichandran, S. Saravanan, A. Vijayaraghavan (2016). A Lovelock, C. E., D.R. Cahoon, D.A. Friess, review of the mangrove floristic of G.R. Guntenspergen, K. W. Krauss, R. Reef, India. Taiwania, 61(3). N. Saintilan (2015). The vulnerability of Indo-Pacific mangrove forests to sea-level Sengupta, K., and K. Banerjee (2010). rise. Nature, 526(7574), 559. Impact of Salinity on Mangroves of Indian Sundarbans. Polidoro, B. A., K. E. Carpenter, L. Collins, N.C. Duke, A. M. Ellison, J. C. Ellison, S. R. Worthington, T., and M. Spalding (2018). Livingstone, (2010). The loss of species: Mangrove Restoration Potential: A global mangrove extinction risk and geographic map highlighting a critical opportunity. About the Authors Anoop Raj Singh Dr. Nehru Prabakaran Anoop Raj Singh is a researcher at Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. He holds MSc in Environment Studies and Resource Management from TERI School of Advance Studies, New Delhi. His research interest are vegetation ecology and species community dynamics. Currently, he studies the coastal ecosystem changes focusing on mangroves of Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Nehru Prabakaran is a DST-INSPIRE Faculty/scientist at Wildlife Institute of India since 2018. He holds a Ph.D. in Botany from Bharathiar University. He was a recipient of Leibniz-DAAD Post- Doctoral Fellowship 2014, Germany, and DST-INSPIRE Faculty Award, India 2018. He is an ecologist focusing primarily on ecosystem recovery following natural and anthropogenic disturbances. He currently studies the mangrove ecosystem responses to sea-level change and plant-soil feedback mechanisms. 21

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Diversity of Wetland Fishes in Pailan, Southern West Bengal 1Priyankar Chakraborty & Rahul Biswas Email of corresponiding author1: [email protected] P. Chakraborty Amblypharyngodon mola (Hamilton, 1822)- a small indigenous carplet found in West Bengal A multitude of big and small contribute to the fisheries of the region. Some of the important species wetlands are strewn across the entire of the wetlands are Channa striata landscape of southern West Bengal, (Bloch, 1793) locally known as ‘Shoal’, India. Some are isolated from human Anabas sp. locally called ‘Koi’ and contact, while others are neighbouring Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch, 1794) rice paddy fields. Colloquially known called ‘Shingi’. Most of the species of as ‘Doba’ and ‘Pana Pukur’, these fishes in the wetlands are small in size wetlands harbour a diverse array of and are not consumed by humans. flora and fauna. While birds of the Nonetheless, they have significant wetlands get most of the attention, ecological value and some are even little is known about the other valued as ornamental fishes. denizens. Fishes are almost invisible to Unfortunately, an array of an observer because unlike the clear anthropogenic (i.e. human related) flowing waters of a stream or a pond, pressures in the form of land grabbing, the murky and still waters of the invasive fish aquaculture, plastic and wetlands contain thick impenetrable chemical pollution are wreaking havoc maze of reeds and other aquatic plants to the wetlands. that rarely allows a glimpse into their world. However, they greatly 22

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Fishes are some of the P. Chakraborty important indicators of the quality of water. Hence, documentation of their Mystus tengara (Hamilton, 1822) a diversity is important. A photographic catfish of the Bagridae family glimpse of the diversity of fishes from the wetlands of Southern West Bengal has been provided here. We hope to increase awareness among people about the fishes in wetlands. Rahul Biswas P. Chakraborty Typical wetland habitat in South Bengal The chameleon fish Badis badis (Hamilton, 1822) Rahul Biswas P. Chakraborty Water lilies clutter the surface during A predatory fish of the wetlands, the the rainy season but provide important Chevron snakehead, Channa striata refuge to smaller fishes (Bloch, 1793) 23

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 P. Chakraborty P. Chakraborty The Channa punctata (Bloch, 1793) A small colorful barb Pethia gelius another snakehead fish from the wetlands (Hamilton, 1822) found in the wetlands of South Bengal of Pailan P. Chakraborty P. Chakraborty Tank goby, Glossogobius giuris (Hamilton, The Flying barb Esomus danricus 1822) a goboiid fish from the wetlands (Hamilton, 1822) (below) and Zebra danio Danio rerio (Hamilton, 1822) (above). Both species are popular as ornamental fishes and are found in wetlands across south Bengal P. Chakraborty P. Chakraborty The diminutive Rice fish Oryzias The colourful Striped Gourami dancena (Hamilton, 1822) is a staple of Trichogaster fasciata Bloch and Schneider, 1801) is an anabantid fish the wetlands of South Bengal 24

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 P. Chakraborty P. Chakraborty The Climbing Perch Anabas sp. known The highly invasive African sharp tooth for their ability to cross ‘walk’ over catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, land in search for water. Found in the 1822) pose a threat to the wetlands of wetlands of Pailan the region About the Authors Priyankar Chakraborty Rahul Biswas Priyankar Chakraborty has done his MSc in Wildlife Conservation Action from BVIEER in Pune, India and he is captivated about fish systematics and conservation of elasmobranchs. He currently works as an independent researcher. Rahul Biswas is a naturalist whose interest extends from fishes to birds. He is also an avid nature photographer and he is the owner of the company Avian DNA Lab that works on identifying the gender of birds. 25

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Madanpur Wetlands: The Last Paradise of Bihar? Divyashree Rana Email: [email protected] Sourabh Verma The vast Madanpur wetlands. Wetlands like these sequester carbon in their soil in contrast to rainforests that sequester carbon in trees Valmiki Tiger Reserve, the only flourishes on the rich alluvial soil, supporting an enormous yet seasonal National Park and Tiger Reserve of wetland. Though not contiguous or Bihar is situated at the Indo-Nepal perennial, the numerous “Naalas” or border sharing contiguous forests with natural canals criss-crossing these vast Nepal’s Chitwan National Park. Spread grasslands support diverse wetland over an area of 900 sq.km, it flora and fauna. encompasses a variety of habitats ranging from dense woodlands and I recently had an exciting gorges in the north to Terai floodplains opportunity to visit many wetlands in in the south. A narrow stretch of land the country while searching for the along the river Gandak is formed by a elusive Fishing cat, a wetland unique mosaic of wetlands and specialist carnivore. My Master’s grasslands, marks the south-western dissertation revolved around these tip of the park - the range of unique landscapes ranging from the Madanpur. This landscape is regularly coastal mangroves washed by the Bay swept by the mighty Gandak and hence of Bengal to inland and riverine 26

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 wetlands in the floodplains of Terai. landscape for over ten days in the Apart from the diverse flocks of chilly month of January this year, I resident and winter migrant birds, could find no trace of them. No records another common species that often of this conspicuous and gregarious crossed my path was the otter. These species - even in the most protected charismatic fish hunters, belonging to parts of the Park - despite local the weasel family, can be caught knowledge of the species within the playing in groups in freshwater rivers, Forest Department veterans and lakes and wetlands in many parts of villagers baffled me. Could it be that, the country. The shy and nocturnal once present, now the otters have nature of my study species, the Fishing been extirpated from this landscape? cat, usually forced me to instead look Does the disappearance of this for the presence of more friendly important flagship1 species of otters, often a sympatric inhabitant. wetlands translate to impending doom My journey in the wetlands of for these habitats? But I gradually Madanpur was no different and started understood, the answer to my with the quest for the friendlier otters resounding question “Where are the to aid my search for the Fishing cat. otters?” lies deeply interwoven in the Surprisingly, unlike all the other geography, culture and management places, despite the known records of of this dwindling landscape. the latter from the landscape, there were none for the otters! But The landscape of multifaceted interestingly, my interactions with the problems long-serving field hands told a different story. When asked about a The size, shape and positioning group of squealing fish-eating animal of a Protected Area (PA) are critical to near the water, one of the most optimize its ability to conserve experienced and respected Forest biodiversity by governing management guard of Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Dara and habitat quality of the area. Singh, non-hesitantly pointed to the Though there exists an active debate sketch of a smooth-coated otter in his on the adequate size of PA, there is small pocket field guide. However, unanimous opinion favouring areas despite my intensive scouting of the with smaller edge to area ratios. 27

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Map of Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bihar. (Modified from WWF report: Maurya et al., 2014) In short, a circular area with reverberating chopping of wood least edge allows more interior conveys this sad story of neglect and habitat, hence lending more over exploitation by us. protection to biodiversity. In this aspect, the geometry of Madanpur Attitudes of the local people does it no favours. play an important role in the conservation of a habitat; hence a Resembling an airstrip, this major onus of biodiversity elongated narrow stretch of grasslands conservation lies on the cultural is flanked by the Gandak river on one practices of the area. Though, we are side and National Highway on the aware of many positive aspects of other. Moreover, the many villages culture, sometimes it can also present interspersed within and around the hurdles against better management. Tiger Reserve derive their daily needs During my escapade in this floodplain, like timer and cattle grazing from the I was made aware of an odd practice forest. These factors combined, put which involved traditional logging immense anthropogenic pressure on during the wedding season as a token this last stretch of wilderness. The of community involvement in the hoof-trodden grasslands with the festivities. Practices like these present additional challenges for the often- 28

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 understaffed Forest department; this In the wake of an optimistic mega- not just results in poor management project of rhino reintroduction, I feel outcomes, but also leads to social the fate of this landscape is standing backlashing towards these personnel. at the cusp of change. Being a rare and threatened megafauna with slow Last but not the least, while growing life history patterns, seasonal flooding in Gandak nourishes successful reintroduction of Indian these wetlands, it also makes rhinoceros would demand swathes of patrolling impossible during the change in the protection and months of monsoon continuing late management of the landscape. The into the year. Owing to its high water- vast grasslands off the edge of the table, occasional showers are also river and canals, with frequent equally capable of making many parts visitation by Nepalese rhino6 bears of the area inaccessible. I got first- witness to the potential of the hand experience of this phenomenon, landscape in harbouring a resident landing after three days of consecutive population. The presence of this rains in the peak of winter! charismatic species, protected under the Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Hope around the corner? Act, 1972 is bound to rejuvenate the landscape by alleviating profound Despite the deeply intertwined anthropogenic stress. The winds of problems, I believe not all hope is lost. The serene swamps of Madanpur Divyashree Rana 29

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 change are already in motion with a left me awestruck with its diversity multi-fold increase in the amongst diverse challenges. I hope this administrative force early this year! last paradise keeps fascinating people with its strength and beauty in years to I believe shedding light on this come. After all, it is appropriately said forgotten paradise and focused efforts that a thousand-mile journey begins could save this last wilderness. only with a single step. Changing dependencies of the locals on the forest by facilitating means of basic livelihood could go a long way in keeping this fight alive. This place has Web-links Used About the Author https://www.iucnosgbull.org/Volume28A Divyashree Rana is a Masters /Stevens_et_al_2011.html student studying Wildlife biology and Conservation from National https://science.jrank.org/pages/5532/Pr Centre for Biological Sciences in otected-Area-Design-protected- Bangalore. She is deeply fascinated areas.html by the mysterious world of small cats and hope to work towards https://www.researchgate.net/publicati understanding and conserving them on/262525815_Status_of_tigers_in_Valmi in near future. She love travelling ki_Tiger_ReserveTerai_Arc_Landscape_Bi and exploring new places, a perk of har_India_WWF-India(Mourya et al.,2014) being a wildlife biologist. https://bioone.org/journals/mountain- research-and-development/volume- 30/issue-3/MRD-JOURNAL-D-09- 00040.1/Traditional-Culture-and- Biodiversity-Conservation--Examples- From-Uttarakhand-Central/10.1659/MRD- JOURNAL-D-09-00040.1.full https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/ north-east/rhinos-to-return-to- valmiki/cid/1658508 https://news.mongabay.com/2017/09/in dia-and-nepal-team-up-to-rescue- flooded-rhinos/ 30

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Otter as an Indicator of Freshwater Ecosystems 1Akshaya Mohan Mane, Sanatomba Singh and Rabindra Sharma Email of corresponding Author1: [email protected] Rabindra Sharma Smooth-coated otters in Kaziranga National Park Otters are charismatic, clever They have speedy metabolism and generally eat between 15-25% of their and playful mammals. All otters are body weight in food every day. Otters strong swimmers, well adapted to both are from family Mustelidae. A family of marine and freshwater habitats. Their carnivorous mammals, including resting spots are called as hover or a weasels, badgers, otters, ferrets, couch, which is nothing but a bed of martens, minks, and wolverines. It reeds. Otters also use Holts - small includes 64 species from nine families underground dens where they can take (Silva et al., 2015). There are 13 otter shelter and raise their young. These are species spread around the world upland areas protected from river flood- belonging to the sub-family Lutrinae. ing impacts for breeding and nesting. 31

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 The smallest one is an Asian ecosystems. Any contaminant that small-clawed otter 2-3 feet in length enters into their food web become more and the giant otter living along Amazon concentrated with each trophic level in River which reaches 5.5 feet in length. the food chain, resulting in the highest A 12 among 13 otter species are listed as concentration at the top. Otters are Endangered (5), Vulnerable (2), and among the first species to disappear Near threatened (5) category are facing from a polluted watershed. It may be threat to the population decline (IUCN due to an increase in pollutant’s Red List). All species are vulnerable to concentration, or loss of prey due to extinction but the Hairy-nosed otter in habitat destruction, or habitat Asia is so rare. Before 1998 it was fragmentation along waterways. When thought to be extinct, then small otters disappear, we should understand population was rediscovered. Otters are right away that something is unusual or known to survive in different habitats unexpected in the ecosystem. ranging from forest, shrubland, There are three species of otters: grassland, wetlands, marine-neritic, Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra); Smooth- Intertidal, Coastal/ Supratidaland coated Otter (Lutra perspicillata) and Artificial/Aquatic areas. Small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus) found in India. Rabindra Sharma Smooth - coated otter distribution and Smooth-coated otter in its habitat natural history River otters are linked to the The Smooth-coated otters are the riparian habitat. Otters need a clean most wide-spread and common species water and abundance of prey. They are found in river floodplains of South Asia. sensitive to disruptions in the It is found in Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Southwest China, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Indonesia and southern Iraq. In India, the species is facing local extinction due to poaching and hunting. They were once common in 32

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 the wetlands and coastal areas of Asia. Similarly, along the Chambal River in Today, they are restricted to a few central India the group size recorded by protected areas. The major threat is the Hussain and Choudhury 1995, ranges growing human population across the from 1 to 9 animals. They found home Asia. The loss of wetland habitats, range of otters overlapped decline in prey density, water pollution, substantially. The home range of poaching and construction of dams, also females with cubs was estimated to be affected the species population. The 5.5 km of river, and about 17 km for Smooth-coated otter is listed as adult males. The Smooth-coated otter is Vulnerable in IUCN Red List (2020) due mainly a fish eater (75-100% fish to an anecdotal decline in population (> component in diet), but also eats 30 %) over the past 30 years. The shrimp, crayfish, crabs, frogs, Smooth-coated otters are generalist mudskippers, insects, oysters, turtles, feeders and use a range of habitat, but rodents and birds (Foster-Turley, 1992; prefer flat riverbanks with shallow Hussain and Choudhury, 1998; Anoop waters. The species likes large rivers, and Hussain, 2005). lakes, peat swamp forests, coastal mangroves, estuaries and rice fields Rabindra Sharma (Foster-Turley,1992) with an ample Smooth-coated otter eating fish riverine vegetation, rocky areas and or deep soil for digging their dens. During The study in Singapore showed 35 monsoon and winter in the terai of the % of diet of Smooth-coated otter upper Gangetic plains, Smooth-coated consists prawns (Theng et al., 2016). otters uses flooded swamps as a natal Otters forage mainly in water near den sites and nurseries. Smooth-coated fallen trees, rocks, fishing nets and otters are gregarious, often live in large rapids (Shariff 1984). Researchers groups of different age and sex. They observe them in freshwater reservoirs hunt in groups. consuming large amount of exotic fish In Kaziranga National Park, the 33 group of 9 animals was observed in Kohra- Central Range during 2019-2020.

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 species like European carp in Periyar species. Even a conflict with fishermen Tiger reserve and exotic cichlids in who consider the species a competitor is Singapore (Theng et al., 2016). Otters a threat to the species (Gupta et al., are considered to be a controllers of 2020). exotic fish species and contribute to their rapid expansion in water bodies Eutrophication and persistent use (Anoop and Hussain, 2005). Smooth- coated otter mating takes place during of agricultural pesticides made wetlands August and September in water. The prolonged playful bouts observed and waterways polluted. The major between partners (Naidu and Malhotra 1989). The litter size is 2 - 5 and born problem to the development of rice-fish after 60 – 65 days (Desai, 1974). culture was observed during 1992 due to This species is confirmed to be Vulnerable due to an inferred increased usage of pesticides (Nawab population decline due to habitat loss and exploitation. Major threats to this and Hussain, 2012). This leads to a species are loss of wetland habitats due to construction of large-scale dangerous situation to all predators hydroelectric projects, pollution from mining, conversion of wetlands for feeding on affected aquatic prey settlements and agriculture, reduction in prey species, poaching and (Melisch, 1995). The urgent actions on contamination of water by chemicals. In the last 30 years, loss of mangroves to creation of a network of Protected aquaculture throughout east coast (Azeez et al., 2016), stone quarrying, Areas, identification of important sand mining, and other habitat alterations like reclamation of wetlands wetlands under the Ramsar Convention, outside protected areas have increased, leading to reduced habitat of this will help to saveotters’ habitat. In India, the Smooth-coated otter is given protection in many protected areas created for umbrella species such as tiger, elephant and river dolphins. In the Jim Corbett and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves in northern India Periyar, Parambukulum and Kalakad - Mundanthurai Tiger Reserves, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park and Pakke Tiger Reserves, attention needs to be given to the Smooth-coated otter (Nawab and 34

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Hussain, 2012; Duplaix and Savage, confirmed their persistence from 2018). southern as well as northern Iraq (Al- Sheikhly and Nader, 2013). The Highly populated countries in Asia quantitative data on population sizes have inadequate and ineffective rural and trends are lacking and required to development programmes to address be studied. the poverty. Hence, people are more dependent on natural resources. Akshaya Mane Consequently, most of the wetlands and Romp of Smooth-coated otter after waterways do not have an adequate swimming at Kaziranga National Park prey base for sustaining otter populations (Silva et al., 2015). In the References entire south and southeast Asia there is Anoop, K. R. & S. A. Hussain (2005). severe conflict between otters and Food and feeding habits of smooth- humans, due to increase in aquaculture coated otters (Lutra perspicillata) and activities leading to indiscriminate their significance to the fish population killing of all otter species (Klenke et al., of Kerala, India. Journal of Zoology, 2013). Predominant poaching pressure is 266(1), 15-23. affecting otters’ survival in south and Azeez, P. A., G. Quadros, M. southeast Asia. The online pet trade has Mahendiran, S. Manchi, A. M. Mane, K. A emerged as a pressing threat to otters in Nishadh, V.J. Jins & M. P. Swathi (2016). Southeast Asia. A study by a TRAFFIC- The Ecological Baseline Study of the Palk IUCN Otter Specialist Group (OSG) in Bay. 2018 revealed hundreds of the animals Duplaix, N. and M. Savage (2018). The for sale on Facebook and other Global Otter Conservation Strategy. websites. It is believed that the population has been wiped out from Iraq due to intensive poaching pressure and habitat conversion during 1991-2003 (Al- Sheikhly, 2012). The recent surveys have 35

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 IUCN/SSC Otter Specialist Group, Salem, Park, Pahang. Journal of Wildlife and Oregon, USA National Parks 3: 75-88. Foster-Turly, P. 1992. Conservation Theng, M., N. Sivasothi, & H. H. Tan ecology of sympatric Asian otters Aonyx (2016). Diet of the smooth-coated otter cinerea and Lutra perspicillata. Ph.D. Lutrogale perspicillata (Geoffroy, 1826) Dissertation, University of Florida. at natural and modified sites in Singapore. Raffl. Bull. Zool. Gupta, N., V. Tiwari, M. Everard, M. Savage, S. A. Hussain, Chadwick, M. A.& Desai, J.H. (1974). Observations on the breeding habits of the Indian smooth V. K. Belwal (2020). Assessing the otter. International Zoo Yearbook 14: 123-124. distribution pattern of otters in four rivers of the Indian Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. Aquatic Naidu, M.K. and A.K. Malhotra (1989). Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Breeding biology and status of the Ecosystems, 30(3), 601-610. smooth Indian otter Lutra Hussain, S.A. & B.C. Choudhury (1998). perspicillata in captivity. Asian Otter Feeding ecology of smooth-coated otter Lutra perspicillata in National Specialist Group Newsletter 1(2): 6. Chambal Sanctuary. In: N. Dunstone and M.L. Gorman (eds), Behaviour and Klenke, R., I. Ring, K. S. Máñez, R. Ecology of Riparian Mammals, pp. 229- Habighorst, V. Weiss, H. Wittmer & K. 250. Cambridge University Press. Henle (2013). Otters in Saxony: a story of successful conflict resolution. In Melisch, R. (1995). Biology and Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Europe (pp. conservation of otters (Carnivora, 107-140). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. Mustelidae) in West Java, Indonesia (Doctoral dissertation, MSc thesis, Inst. Nawab, A. and S. A. Hussain (2012). Zool., Univ. Hohenheim, Stuttgart). Factors affecting the occurrence of smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale Shariff, S. (1984). Some observation on perspicillata) in aquatic systems of the otters at Kual Gula, Perak and National Upper Gangetic Plains, India. Aquatic conservation: Marine and freshwater ecosystems 22: 616-625. 36

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Nawab, A. and S.A. Hussain (2012). Prey About the Authors selection by smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) in response to Dr. Akshaya Mane is a Wildlife Biologist, the variation in fish abundance in Upper freelancer working on animal behavior and Gangetic Plains, India. Mammalia 76: their movements. She is based in Assam and 57-65. her key interests are landscape ecology and threatened species. Al-Sheikhly, O.F. (2012). The hunting of endangered mammals in Iraq. Wildlife Sanatomba Singh is a wildlife observer and GIS Middle East 6(2/3): Analyst working with private firm from Assam. Al-Sheikhly, O.F. and I.A. Nader (2013). Rabindra Sharma is a Wildlife Photographer and Research Officer at Kaziranga National Park, The Status of Iraq Smooth-Coated Assam. Otter Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli Hayman 1956 and Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra Linnaeus 1758 in Iraq. IUCN Otter Spec. Group Bullettin 30(1): 18-30. de Silva, P., W. A. Khan, B. Kanchanasaka, I. Reza Lubis, M. M. Feeroz & O. F. Al-Sheikhly (2015). Lutrogale perspicillata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12427A21934884. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2 015-2.RLTS.T12427A21934884.en. Downloaded on 15 May 2020. 37

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Current Status and Conservatory Challenges of Valanthakad Mangroves, Kerala, India Vinod Kumar Nathan Email : [email protected]; [email protected] Mangroves, a typical and a (Satheeshkumar, 2012a). Mangroves play an important role in detritus cycle largest group of marine ecosystem, are and contribute to carbon recycling in widely distributed throughout the coast the biosphere. lines around the globe. India being a country with a significant coastal area is Figure1. Overview of Valanthakad blessed with mangrove ecosystem, mangroves, Cochin, India habitat for many halo-tolerant typical mangrove plant species. They have Valanthakad island mangrove peculiar mechanisms to adapt to saline (9°55′10.24″N latitude and 76°20′ and moist environment. Moreover, they 01.23″E longitude) is a true mangrove are rich in microbial diversity too. There ecosystem situated at Cochin, Kerala. It are many studies focused on the is one of the typical mangrove microbial association with the mangrove ecosystems within the urban area of plant species (Mehdi et al., 2000; Vittal Cochin. This island is inhabited by and Sarma, 2006; Tariq et al., 2006 a, human population and the mangrove is b). Potential microbial isolates were connected to Maradu Village. This isolated from mangrove debris and phyllosphere for producing various bio- active compounds including enzymes. This ecosystem provides a nursery and breeding ground for most of the marine and brackish water fish and shellfish, and is also important in the daily livelihood of local communities 38

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 mangrove ecosystem consists of some al., 2018). Mesozooplankton community dominant plant species, namely Acanthus ilicifolius L., Rhizophora structure in the mangrove ecosystem apiculata Blume., R. mucronata Lam., Derris trifoliata Lour., Sonneratia was also studied (Sreelekshmi et al., caseolaris (L.) Engl. and Acrostichum aureum Linn., as the other species were 2017). Similarly, the microbial strains destroyed by human interferences and other reasons. Other than these typical were screened and studied for their mangrove flora, Pandanus odoratissimus L. and Fimbristylis ferruginea (L.) Vahl. enzyme production ability (Nathan et were seen in very high frequency. Similar reports of mangrove flora were al., 2014 a,b; Nathan et al., 2017 a,b; found for mangroves of Kundapura region, Udupi, Karnataka. Among the 12 Rishad et al., 2017; Rishad and Jisha, true mangrove species reported, Avicennia officinalis L. and Rhizophora 2017); Nathan et al., 2018; Thatoi et al., mucronata Lam. were found dominant in mangroves under the Port Trust 2020). In fact, our research group was region of Cochin. Bruguirea gymnorhiza (L.) Lamk., B. cylindrical (L.) Blume., pioneer to explore the microbial Acrostichum aureum Linn., Sonneratia alba Griff. and S. caseolaris (L.) Engl. treasures of Valanthakad mangrove are other mangrove species found (Satheeshkumar et al., 2011). Apart which began in 2011 with a preliminary from floral diversity, this ecosystem has a rich faunal and microbial diversity enzyme screening study (Rishad et al., also. A new species that belongs to the third of genus Victoriopisa from Indian 2013). Since then, many publications waters was described from the Valanthakad mangrove area (Joseph et came out that proved the importance of this ecosystem. However, a systematic diversity study of the mangrove flora and fauna has not been done till the date. Valanthakad island is connected to the city by water transport and is a major scenario for people living on the island. A primary health center is functional on the island for the benefit of people, but not sufficient to fulfill the emergency needs. Therefore, connectivity of the island with the mainland is the major issue as people need to depend fully on water ways for transport. The resulting negative impact 39

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 of human population on mangroves was b discussed by many (Thomas and Figure 2b. Present status of the Valanthakad island mangroves ecosystem- Fernandez, 1994). Human Effect of uncontrolled human interference encroachments are obvious as people Solid waste management is very poor in the island as the plastic and depend on this ecosystem for their kitchen wastes were dumped directly into the ecosystem. Plastic carry bags livelihood. Their needs include fresh clog the aerial roots of mangrove, leading to poor air exchange and water, fuel and food. People carry out hampers its survival (Satheeshkumar et al., 2012a). Apart from threat to shrimp cultivation and slake lime mangrove plants, these plastic waste has been indirectly affecting the extraction. Mangrove region is, mangrove fauna (Sandilyan and Kathiresan, 2014). Some houses are however, used typically for shrimp equipped with biogas plants using cow- dung and household wastes. Unlike in cultivation alone. Sanitation facilities urban areas, waste collection and disposal is not feasible here as proper are not advanced and mostly have roads are absent here and there are no vehicles too. All these matters outlets draining the sewage into the complicate the conservation strategy of Valanthakad mangroves. High total ecosystem. Hence the ecosystem is 40 highly susceptible to pollution and unfit for any human usage. A similar study of Puducherry mangrove revealed that sewage pollution was a threat to its conservation (Satheeshkumar et al., 2012 b). a Figure 2a. Present status of the Valanthakad mangrove ecosystem- Plastic and waste disposal into mangroves

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 sulphide (0.08-1.84 mg/l) and carbon ecosystems. Relevant Government dioxide (3-17 mg/l) resulted due to bodies and voluntary Nature hospital discharges and slaughter wastes conservation organisations should play dumped into Valanthakad mangroves active role in conserving them. was already reported (Meera and Adequate restoration measures are need Nandan, 2010). of the hour for maintaining the health of this mangrove ecosystem. Valanthakad has been considered for many major projects, References but, attempts to acquire the ecosystem for constructions and infra- structural Joseph, P., S. B. Nandan and P. R. developments had been protested by Jayachandran (2018). New species of locals and environmentalists. Ideally, it Victoriopisa Karaman Barnard, 1979 could be converted as a conservation (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Eriopisidae) from area. So, suitable conservation Vembanad backwaters, Southwest coast of measures must be implemented. Proper India. Zootaxa, 4433(1): 69-70. connectivity with mainland should be facilitated to local people to divert Meera, S. and S. B. Nandan (2010). Water them from depending on this ecosystem. quality status and primary productivity of Sanitation facilities and waste Valanthakad Backwater in Kerala. Indian management strategies should be Journal of Marine Sciences, 39(1): 105-113. promoted for the full fledge success of its conservation. It is high time to think Mehdi, F. S., I. A. Siddiqui, N. I. Ali and M. over the conservation of these rare Afzal (2000). Rhizosphere mycoflora of natural resources by which we will be Black mangrove seedling at Karachi able to survive in future. Mangroves are coast. Pakistan Journal of Biological treasure on the earth. They provide Sciences, 3(8): 1352-1353. multifarious ecosystem services and must be saved at any. It is an appeal to Nathan, V. K., S. R. Kanthimathinathan, M. the scientific community to join hands E. Rani, G. Rathinasamy and N. D. Kannan to explore the diversity of Valanthakad (2018). Biobleaching of waste paper using and other unexplored mangrove lignolytic enzyme from Fusarium equiseti VKF2: a mangrove isolate. Cellulose, 25(7): 4179-4192. Nathan, V. K., K. S. Rajam and M. E. Rani (2017 a). Plant Growth Promotion Efficacy 41

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 of Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) Produced by a Scientific Services Publication, India. pp Mangrove Associated Fungi-Trichoderma 58-72. viride VKF3. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, Rishad, K. S., M. S. Jisha (2017 a). Screening 6(11): 2692-2701. of halophilic bacteria producing extracellular hydrolytic enzymes from Nathan, V. K., K. S. Rajam, M. E. Rani, R. Valanthakad Mangroves, Kochi, Gunaseeli and N. D. Kannan (2017 b). Kerala. Journal of Microbiology and Prospecting Multiple Enzyme Systems of Biotechnology Research, 6:1-15. Mangrove Fungi for Dye Decolourization Rishad, K. S., S. Rebello, V. K. Nathan, S. Shabanamol, and M. S. Jisha (2016). Potential. In Bioremediation and Optimised production of chitinase from a novel mangrove isolate, Bacillus pumilus Sustainable Technologies for Cleaner MCB-7 using response surface methodology. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Environment. Springer, Cham. pp. 319-327 Biotechnology, 5:143-149. Nathan, V. K., M. E. Rani, R. Gunaseeli and Rishad, K. S., S. Rebello, P. S. Shabanamol, N. D. Kannan (2014 a). Potential of xylanase and M.S. Jisha (2017 b). Biocontrol potential from Trichoderma viride VKF3 in waste of halotolerant bacterial chitinase from high paper pulp characteristics modification. yielding novel Bacillus pumilus MCB-7 In Int Conf Chem Environ Biol Sci (pp. 17- autochthonous to mangrove 18). ecosystem. Pesticide biochemistry and physiology, 137:36-41. Nathan, V. K., M. E. Rani, G. Rathinasamy, K. N. Dhiraviam, S. Jayavel (2014 b). Sandilyan, S. and K. Kathiresan (2014). Process optimization and production Decline of mangroves–a threat of heavy kinetics for cellulase production by metal poisoning in Asia. Ocean & coastal Trichoderma viride VKF3. SpringerPlus, management, 102:161-168. 3(1): 92. Rishad K.S, N. Vinod Kumar and Joyal Satheeshkumar, P. (2012 a). Mangrove Jacob (2013). Molecular identification and vegetation and community structure of bioprospecting of fungi associated with brachyuran crabs as ecological indicators of Valanthakad mangroves, Kerala, India. In: Pondicherry coast, South east coast of Environmental Microbiology: Techniques and Applications. Ed.(1) Jisha M.S. Bulbul 42

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 India. Iranian Journal of Fisheries Tariq, M., S. Dawar and F. S. Mehdi (2006 Sciences, 11(1): 184-203. b). Occurrence of fungi on mangrove plants. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 38(4): Satheeshkumar, P., U. Manjusha, N. G. K. 1293. Pillai and D. Senthil Kumar (2012 b). Puducherry mangroves under sewage Thatoi, H., Mishra, R. R., B. C. Behera pollution threat need conservation. Current (2020). Biotechnological potentials of Science, 102(1): 13-14. halotolerant and halophilic bacteria from mangrove ecosystems. In Biotechnological Satheeshkumar, P., U. Manjusha and N. G. Utilization of Mangrove Resources. K. Pillai (2011). Conservation of mangrove Academic Press. pp. 413-433 forest covers in Kochi coast. Current Science, 101(10): 1400-1400. Thomas, G. and T. V. Fernandez (1994). Mangrove and tourism: management Sreelekshmi, S., C. M. Preethy, P. Joseph, strategies. Indian forester, 120(5): 406- R. Varghese and S. Bijoy Nandan, (2017). 412. Mesozooplankton community structure in a degrading mangrove ecosystem of the Vittal, B. P. R. and V. V. Sarma (2006). Cochin coast, India. Lakes & Reservoirs: Diversity and ecology of fungi on mangroves Research & Management, 22(1): 5-18. of Bay of Bengal region-An overview. Indian Journal of Marine Sciences, 35(4): 308-317. Tariq, M., S. Dawar and F. S. Mehdi (2006 a). Isolation of fungi from Avicennia marina. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 38(3): 805. About the Author Dr. Vinod Kumar Nathan is an Assistant Professor in School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur- 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India. 43

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Rare Slaty-breasted Rail (Gallirallus striatus) in Vadodara (Gujarat, India) Hitesh M. Ameta, 1Hiren J. Patel and Geeta S. Padate Email of corresponding Author1: [email protected] Vietnam, Cambodia, Andaman and Nicobar Island, Sumatra, Borneo, Java, Hitesh Ameta Slaty-breasted Rail (Gallirallus striatus) at Timbi Irrigation Reservoir, Vadodara, Gujarat Introduction Bali, Sulawesi, Sawu and Philippines (Taylor, 2010; Grimmett et al., 2011; Slaty-breasted Rail (Gallirallus Rasmussen and Anderton, 2012; BirdLife International, 2016). striatus) is a resident waterbird Although the bird’s range on the Asian species of India, Sri Lanka, eastern Nepal, NE Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Rails Rails are secretive marsh-inhabiting waterbirds having slender, chicken-shaped body, short tail, small rounded wings, large feet, and long toes. There are 127 species of rails in the world. They belong to Rallidae family which is also shared by crakes, coots, moorhens, swamphens and gallinules. They produce loud calls, mostly during nights and these calls reveal their presence amidst the marshy vegetation.During the day time, rails secretively live among the reeds at water;s edge. Crakes are rails with short and conical bills. [Source: www.britanca.com] 44

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 mainland is largely hypothetical Mokarsagar Reservoir, Porbandar (Oriental Bird Images 2020) and Amreli (Taylor, 2010), in India, it is found in (Vagadiya, 2019) of Saurashtra peninsula. Its regular presence is eastern Uttaranchal (now reported from South Gujarat (Patel, 2016). Parasharya et al. (2004) have Uttarakhand) and eastern Arunachal, stated the bird as a resident breeding species. However, the species has not lower parts of South Assam hills (East been reported earlier from Vadodara (Padate et al., 2001). Meghalaya, Cachar, Manipur), south- Here we report a sighting of the west Bengal (Calcutta area), Central species in the reed mace around Timbi Irrigation Reservoir (22.307°N, India (near Melghat), in the peninsula 73.283°E) on the outskirts of Vadodara, Gujarat. from Bombay in the west to near Madras in the east (Ali and Ripley, 1980; Rasmussen and Anderton, 2012). In Gujarat, it is a rare monsoon migrant (Ganpule, 2016), and their sporadic occurrence is reported from Barda, Porbandar (Das, 2010), Hiren Patel A typical reed mace habitat of Slaty-breasted Rail Observations sides of reeds. But before we could On 29 June 2018, when the refer to a field-guide or take a photograph it sneaked into the reeds. weather was partly cloudy, we were At 08:04 hrs we could spot the same birding at Timbi Irrigation Reservoir. bird foraging in an open patch near While walking on the earthen bund of the reeds where we took photographs. the reservoir, at 07:33 hrs one crake- like bird was observed foraging on the 45

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Closer observation through a being a new record for the area, an pair of binoculars and details of extensive search was carried out on photographs revealed its prominent subsequent days. Literature as well as rufous-chestnut crown and nape, a ‘eBird’ data for the area were also long bill, slate-grey foreneck and explored. However, we could not sight breast, white barring with spots on the the bird again. No previous records are upperparts, and white barring on available for the occurrence of the belly. These features disclosed its Slaty-breasted Rail in and around identity as a Slaty-breasted Rail. This Vadodara. Fig. 1. Map showing current distribution of Slaty-breasted Rail in Gujarat For understanding the current considered (Fig.1). In the year 2015, distribution of Slaty-breasted Rail in the first sighting of Slaty-breasted rail Gujarat, sightings of the present came from Bharuch and next year the study, records from literature (Pittie, bird was seen again (Patel, 2016). 2020) and online forums such as eBird Later, in the year 2017, one sighting and Oriental Bird Images (OBI) are came from Surat district also. Then in 46

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 2018, we sighted the bird in Vadodara probably attracted the species to and in 2019, it was sighted in Central Gujarat. Porbandar and Surat (eBird, 2020). The year 2018 was a rain deficit Discussion year in Gujarat. In that context, it is Though it has been reported as important to note that the species is known to move locally under the stress a rare monsoon visitor from Gujarat of drought or flood conditions (Ali and (Ganpule, 2016) and regularly Ripley 1980; Rasmussen and Anderton, observed in South Gujarat (Patel, 2012). Further, our sighting of the 2016), its presence in the Central species was during its breeding season. Gujarat (e.g. Vadodara) has not been So, it can be inferred that the species reported earlier or may have been might be exploring suitable areas for scarce or overlooked due to its the breeding purpose under the secretive nature. Though considered rainfall deficit conditions. Parasharya as a skulking invertebrate forager of et al. (2004), in their checklist of birds reedy swamps (Ali and Ripley, 1980), of Gujarat, have mentioned this bird as the species has been reported a breeding bird. The first sight-record occasionally to forage in the open, of this species in Vadodara by us is marsh near-reedy swamps especially valuable from the view-point of during the early morning and making further investigations to afternoon, in the vegetation of village collect breeding data for the species in irrigation tanks, inundated paddy- this region of the State. From the fields and mangroves (Ali, 1954; Ali distribution data, it is understood that and Ripley 1980; Taylor, 2010). Around the sightings of the species have been Vadodara, in Central Gujarat, the available from the year 2015. Till date, habitats that were previously monsoon the species has been found to remain dependent irrigation reservoirs have present in Gujarat for 6-7 months each changed into wetlands retaining water year. Wetland enthusiasts having throughout the year due to inundation interest in waterbirds of Gujarat from Narmada Canal. The availability should report their sightings of the of water throughout the year has species for better understanding of its resulted in the growth of emergent and status and distribution in the State. submerging vegetation which has 47

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 References Oriental Bird Images (2020). Website URL: http://orientalbirdimages.org/. Ali, S. (1954). The birds of Gujarat – Part [Accessed on 10 April 2020.] I. J. Bom. Nat. Hist. Soc. 52 (2): 374- 458. Padate, G. S., S. Sapna and R. V. Devkar (2001). Status of birds in Vadodara Ali, S. and S. D. Ripley (1980). Handbook District (Central Gujarat). Pavo 39: 83- of the birds of India and Pakistan: 94. together with those of Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Ceylon. Vol. 2, Megapodes to Parasharya, B. M., C. K. Borad and D. N. Crab Plover: synopsis nos. 225-434, Rank (2004). A checklist of the birds of colour plates 19-31. Oxford University Gujarat. Bird Conservation Society, Press. Gujarat.Pp.26. BirdLife International (2016). Lewinia Patel, J. (2016). Slaty-breasted Rail in striata. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Gujarat. Flamingo 14 (3): 13-14. Species 2016: e.T22692463A93354724. http://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.20 Pittie, A. (2019). Bibliography of South 16-3.RLTS.T22692463A93354724.en. Downloaded on 23 May 2019. Asian Ornithology. URL: Das, S. (2010). http://www.southasiaornith.in. http://www.indianaturewatch.net/disp layimage.php?id=160809 (Accessed on [Accessed on 23 January 2020.] 10 September 2019). Rasmussen, P. C. and J. C. Anderton eBird (2020). Website URL: (2012). Birds of South Asia. The Ripley https://ebird.org/india/map/slbrai1. Guide. Vols. 1 & 2. Second Edition, [Accessed on 10 April 2020.] National Museum of Natural History - Smithsonian Institution, Michigan State Ganpule, P. (2016). The Birds of University, Lynx Edicions, Washington Gujarat: Status and Distribution, D.C., Michigan and Barcelona. Flamingo, Newsletter for Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat, Taylor, B. (2010). Rails: a guide to rails, Gujarat. Vol. VIII 3 - XII 4. crakes, gallinules and coots of the world. Bloomsbury Publishing. Grimmett, R., C. Inskipp and T. Inskipp (2011). Birds of the Indian Subcontinent Vagadiya, R. (2019). Slaty-breasted Rail (Second edition). Oxford University near Dhari, Amreli District. Flamingo 17 Press and Christopher helm, London. (2): 21. 48

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 About the Authors Hitesh M. Ameta (Left) Hitesh M. Ameta has recently completed post-graduation in Zoology from the M. S. University of Baroda and has done dissertation on Mammalian diversity around Timbi Irrigation Reservoir. His main interest is to study the ecology of small carnivores. Hiren J. Patel (Center) Hiren J. Patel has done post-graduation in Zoology from the M.S. University of Baroda and is deeply interested in Avian Ecology, Mammalian diversity and Entomology. He is currently working as a Biologist in Sardar Patel Zoological Park. Geeta S. Padate (Right) Dr. Geeta S. Padate, a Professor at Department of Zoology, the M.S. University of Baroda, teaches Avian Biology to Master’s students for more than three decades. She has led students to several field studies. Her main interest is biodiversity and ecology studies related to birds in different habitats including wetlands. 49

Jalaplavit (ISSN 2321-1881), Vol. 10, No. 2, June-July 2020 Impact of Wetland Vegetation Removal from Sewage Treatment Plant on Lesser Whistling-Duck in Tamil Nadu, India 1Prasath Selvaraj and Rajarathinavelu Nagarajan Email of the corresponding author1: [email protected] Prasath Selvaraj Lesser Whistling-Ducks resting on the Typha angustifolia in the WSP Globally, waterbird populations Pond (WSP) which acts as a roosting site are adversely affected and are for the diving birds like Little Grebe, undergoing a decline in their population Common Moorhen and Lesser Whistling- due to wetland habitat degradation and Ducks. In order to understand this loss (Zou et al. 2017). On 24 January damage, we have analyzed the sighting 2019, during our preliminary of the Lesser Whistling-Ducks investigation we found that the Dendrocygna javanica in our 1.3 years of maintenance team of the Sewage study. Treatment Plant in Mayiladuthurai district has removed the Typha Typha angustifolia is a perennial angustifolia in the Waste Stabilization emergent macrophyte which grows 1.5m to 3m in length which withstands 50