6.2.4.b. Western Ghats

It extends along a 17000 km² strip of forests in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Kerala and has 40% of the total endemic plant species.

The Western Ghats is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, specifically across four states: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. This area is approximately 17,000 square kilometers in size. The region is significant because it is home to a high diversity of plant species, with about 40% of the flowers and plants found here being endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world.

Think of the Western Ghats as a unique island of flora surrounded by a sea of land. Just like a specific island might have some unique animals or plants that cannot be found anywhere else, the Western Ghats showcases many plant species that are uniquely adapted to its specific climate and geography.

The major centers of diversity are Agastyamalai Hills and Silent valley- the new Amambalam Reserve Basin.

In the Western Ghats, the Agastyamalai Hills and Silent Valley are highlighted as major centers of biodiversity. These areas serve as strongholds for a variety of plant and animal species, hosting many unique species adapted to the local conditions. The Silent Valley, in particular, is noted for its lush greenery and rich ecosystem, making it an important area for conservation efforts.

Imagine these centers as 'museums of nature.' Just like a museum preserves important artifacts and exhibits for people to learn about history, these biodiversity centers protect unique species and give us a glimpse into the ecological history and complexity of the region.

It is reported that only 6.8% of the original forests are existing today while the rest has been deforested or degraded, which raises a serious cause of alarm, because it means we have already lost a huge proportion of the biodiversity.

Sadly, the Western Ghats has faced substantial deforestation, with only 6.8% of the original forest cover remaining. This loss poses a significant threat to biodiversity, as many species depend on forests for shelter, food, and reproduction. Deforestation can lead to habitat destruction, endangering the various unique species that thrive in this environment and resulting in ecosystem decline.

Consider the Western Ghats as a library full of rare and unique books, where each book represents a species. If a flood destroys most of the library, many of the stories (species) may be lost forever. Just like that flood, deforestation eliminates habitats where these unique plants and animals live, making it critical to protect what remains.

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