Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) lies in:a)Karnatakab)Keralac)Maharashtrad...
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) recently gave approval to reintroduce eight tigers into the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) in Maharashtra.
About Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR):
- Location: It is located in the Sahyadri Ranges of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra.
- The reserve spreads over Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, forming the northern portion, and Chandoli National Park, forming the southern part of the reserve. STR was created by merging the areas of these two forests in 2007.
- The region of the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve includes the area around the Koyna Dam, the Warna River, and many other small rivers and streams originating from the Western Ghats and flowing to the east.
- History:
- The history of the area dates back to the Maratha Empire, and many forts built or captured by the first Maratha Emperor Shivaji Bhonsle can be found here.
- The legendary temple from which Shivaji received the Bhavani Sword from divine providence is also said to be among the many ruins in this region.
- Habitat:
- The total area of STR is undulating, with steep escarpments along the western boundary.
- The most distinct feature of the Tiger Reserve is the presence of numerous barren rocky and lateritic plateaus, locally called “Sadas”, with less perennial vegetation and overhanging cliffs on the edges, along with numerous fallen boulders with dense thorny bushes.
- STR is the only place where climax and near-climax vegetation are plentiful and prospects of adverse anthropogenic influence in the future are minimal.
- Flora:
- The forest cover here is that of moist evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist, and dry deciduous vegetation.
- There are many medicinal and fruit-bearing trees along with the commercial hard wood trees in the reserve.
- Fauna:
- The main carnivores are the tiger, leopard, and some Lesser Cats along with the wolf, jackal, and wild dog.
- The large herbivores are several deer species like Barking Deer, Sambar, and other large and small animals like Indian Bison, Sloth Bear, Mouse Deer, Giant Indian Squirrel and Macaque.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) lies in:a)Karnatakab)Keralac)Maharashtrad...
Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) is located in Maharashtra. Here's an explanation of why the correct answer is option 'C':
Location of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve:
- Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is situated in the western ghats of India, specifically in the state of Maharashtra.
- The reserve spans across the districts of Satara, Sangli, and Kolhapur in Maharashtra.
Importance and characteristics of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve:
1. Biodiversity hotspot:
- The Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is a crucial biodiversity hotspot in India.
- It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna species, including endangered and endemic ones.
- The reserve is recognized for its rich biological diversity and is an important ecosystem for the conservation of various species.
2. Tiger population:
- As the name suggests, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is a habitat for tigers.
- It is one of the tiger reserves in India, aiming to protect and conserve the population of this majestic big cat species.
- The reserve has been working towards tiger conservation, implementing measures to ensure their safety and well-being.
3. Western Ghats:
- Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is located in the western ghats region of India.
- The western ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are known for their ecological significance.
- This mountain range is home to several unique and endemic species of plants and animals, making it a hotspot for biodiversity conservation.
4. Ecotourism:
- Sahyadri Tiger Reserve offers opportunities for ecotourism.
- Visitors can explore the reserve's natural beauty, wildlife, and engage in activities like trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks.
- Ecotourism helps in raising awareness about conservation and contributes to the local economy.
In conclusion, Sahyadri Tiger Reserve is located in Maharashtra. It is a significant biodiversity hotspot, known for its tiger population and its location in the western ghats region of India. The reserve plays a crucial role in conserving the rich flora and fauna of the area and offers ecotourism opportunities for visitors to experience and appreciate its natural beauty.
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