Similipal Biosphere

Similipal Biosphere

Subject: Environment

Context: Massive threatening fire in Similipal biosphere has led to the Odisha govt deploying big contingent of field staff to douse it.

Concept:

• Fire started in isolated places of Similipal in Mayurbhanj district in the first week of February has spread to eight forest ranges.
• Concern has been rising over possible damage to flora and fauna.

About Similipal Biosphere reserve:

• The biosphere spread over 4,374 sq km has 845 sq km of core forest (tiger reserve), 2,129 sq km buffer area and 1,400 sq km of transition space.
• It lies within two biogeographical regions: the Mahanadian east coastal region of the Oriental realm and the Chhotanagpur biotic province of the Deccan peninsular zone.
• Volcanic sedimentary rocks are aligned in three concentric rings and accentuate the area’s geologic formations. The highest peak in the Similipal hill range is Khairiburu.
• Numerous waterfalls and perennial streams flow into major rivers, such as the Budhabalang, Baitarani and Subarnarekha.
• It has largest zone of Sal in all of India.
• A distinctive biodiversity, highlighted by 1,076 species of vascular plants is result of tropical monsoonal climate.
• Two endemic Orchid species are Eriameghasaniensis and Tainiahookeriana. Other noteworthy flora species include Callicarpaarborea (a species of beautyberry), Bombaxceiba (Cotton tree) and Madhucalongifolia (Mahua).
• Approximately 52 fauna species here are endangered.
• Paradoxusjorandensis is an example of a valuable and endemic fauna species within the area.
• In addition, Pantheratigris (Royal Bengal Tiger) and Elephasmaximus (Asiatic Elephant) have both been observed within the Similipal Biosphere Reserve.
• Approximately 73% of all inhabitants are Aboriginals. Two tribes, the ErengaKharias and the Mankirdias, inhabit the reserve’s forests and practise traditional agricultural activities (the collection of seeds and timber). Other dominant tribes include the Ho, Gonda and Munda,
• stories and paintings that date back to the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas shows its cultural significance. Ex- a sacred grove called ShamiVrikhya is said to have been the secret hiding place of the bow and arrow of the hero Arjuna