Rare Myristica Swamp Forest Discovered in Maharashtra

Researchers from Dodamarg, near the Goa-Maharashtra border, have discovered a sacred Myristica swamp forest in Kumbral, Maharashtra. The forest, part of a sacred grove protected by the local community, spans 8,200 square meters and occupies 770 square meters.

Discovery and Location of the Sacred Grove

Researchers found a Myristica swamp forest in Kumbral, Maharashtra
Located near the Goa-Maharashtra border in Dodamarg
Second such forest discovered in Maharashtra, after Hewale-Bambarde in Sindhudurg
Part of a sacred grove protected by local community
Grove spread across 8,200 square meters
Swamp forest occupies 770 square meters within the grove
Protected in the name of Lord Shiva, locally known as Bhalandeshwar

Significance of Myristica magnifica and the Swamp Forest

Myristica magnifica is an endangered plant species native to Karnataka and Kerala
70 individual Myristica magnifica trees found in the swamp forest
Part of the nutmeg family, can grow up to 50 meters tall
Provides food for threatened hornbill birds
Ecosystem supports vulnerable Asian short-clawed otter
39 different plant species documented in the sacred grove

Offers various ecological services:

- Groundwater recharge
- Carbon sequestration
- Natural barrier against floods
- Habitat and food for aquatic and aerial fauna

Research and Documentation

Discovery made by Pravin Desai during a birding trail
Research team: Pravin Desai, Vishal Sadekar, and Shital Desai
Findings published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa on August 26, 2024
Gajanan Shetye, a wildlifer, emphasized the importance of the discovery for understanding the region's ecological history
Part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot
Connected to the Tillari river basin

Conservation Importance and Community Role

Local community has protected the grove for generations
Sacred groves play crucial role in preserving rare ecosystems
Cultural beliefs tied to Lord Shiva (Bhalandeshwar) contribute to conservation
Demonstrates importance of community-led conservation efforts
Preserving the forest is vital for maintaining ecological balance in Western Ghats
Conservationists advocate for stronger protection measures
Highlights the need for recognizing and supporting traditional conservation practices

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