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Biodiversity Survey of Etapalli
Introduction
Ladybird Environmental Consulting is conducting critical biodiversity surveys in Etapalli forests, Gadchiroli. These surveys systematically gather data on plants, insects, birds, herpetofauna, and mammals across all seasons, revealing the intricate web of life in these ecosystems. Our comprehensive methodology outlines survey tools, steps, and data publication processes, aiming to shape a Biodiversity Park that celebrates and conserves the region's rich wildlife. Discover how our findings provide insights into ecological dynamics and species relationships, supporting conservation and scientific research.
Project Overview
Project Location: Etapalli forests, Gadchiroli
Project Duration: November 2023 - November 2024
Client: Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd.
Project Interventions
Study Area
Survey Components
Survey Components
We chose 5-kilometer radius of the Etapalli region, focusing on five key sites: Ecopark, Ekra, Doddhi, Marpali, and Pandewahi.
Survey Components
Survey Components
Survey Components
Documentation of flora and fauna(insects, other arthropods, herpetofauna, birds and mammals
Outcomes
Survey Components
Outcomes
Species checklist with habitat preferences and Biodiversity Indexes calculated. The data will be useful in creation of the Etapalli Biodiversity Park
Project Updates
First Steps Towards Etapalli Biodiversity Park
Our Co-founder, Partner, Naturalist and the Butterfly Man of India Mr. Isaac Kehimkar along with Architect Mr. Vistasp Mehta, conducted the first site visit to the upcoming Etapalli Biodiversity Park, joined by Kumari Swami from Lloyds and a Forest Ranger Officer. They assessed the landscape, discussed sustainable design ideas, and explo
Our Co-founder, Partner, Naturalist and the Butterfly Man of India Mr. Isaac Kehimkar along with Architect Mr. Vistasp Mehta, conducted the first site visit to the upcoming Etapalli Biodiversity Park, joined by Kumari Swami from Lloyds and a Forest Ranger Officer. They assessed the landscape, discussed sustainable design ideas, and explored key site features. Notably, the site has its own water source, essential for nurturing a thriving ecosystem. Stay tuned for more updates on this green initiative!
October 2023 to March2024 Survey
Findings
Our latest report summarizes findings from surveys conducted between October 2023 and March 2024 within a 5-kilometer radius of the Etapalli region, focusing on five key sites: Ecopark, Ekra, Doddhi, Marpali, and Pandewahi and recording 565 species.
Highlights from the Three-Season Survey:
- Plant Species: 232
- Insect Species:229
- Herpetofauna Species:19 (3 amphibians, 16 reptiles)
- Bird Species: 80
- Mammal species: 05
Key Findings:
- Plant Diversity:188 genera across 86 families (52 Dicots, 13 Monocots, 1 Pteridophyte)
- Bird Diversity Hotspot: Marpalli
- Herpetofauna and Plant Diversity Hotspot: Ecopark
- Insect Diversity Hotspot: Doddhi
Biodiversity Index Calculation:
- Eco-park: Highest diversity with 52 species from 28 families
- Doddhi: 25 species from 18 families - Marpalli: 23 species from 19 families
- Pandhewahi: 21 species from 16 families
- Ekara:Lowest count with 18 species from 14 families
Additional Observations
- Documented sightings of the Indian Monitor and Alexandrine Parakeet, both classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, in Ekra, Doddhi, Marpali, and Pandewahi, underscoring the importance of protecting these habitats.
- Recorded the Orange Spot Jewel moth, marking a range extension and identification of a new host plant, Tendu. A short note has been published in Bionotes (Issue 26, March 2024).