Biodiversity
The Lap of Greenery: The Biodiversity of Upputhara
Set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats, Upputhara Panchayat in the Idukki district is blessed with a unique climate and topography. Combining agricultural richness and wildlife wealth, this region is equally cherished by nature lovers and researchers alike.
1. Fauna & Mammals
Lying adjacent to forest borders, this landscape serves as a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The presence of rare species endemic to the Western Ghats can be observed along the forest fringes of Upputhara.
Key Species: Malabar giant squirrels, wild boars, porcupines, monkeys, mongooses, and jungle cats thrive here.
Significance: The wildlife wealth plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between humans and nature.
2. Avifauna
Upputhara is a major hub for birdwatchers. The presence of evergreen forests and plantation crops creates ideal conditions for hundreds of bird species.
Key Birds: Great Indian Hornbills, Malabar Grey Hornbills, jungle fowl, peacocks, various parrot species, bulbuls, and kingfishers are regularly spotted here.
Both migratory and resident birds add to the charm of this hill village.
3. Aquatic Ecosystem
Tributaries of the Periyar River and numerous small streams originating from the hills keep Upputhara water-abundant year-round. These freshwater sources serve as a sanctuary for indigenous aquatic life.
Aquatic Fauna: Snakeheads (Varal, Bral), barbs (Paral), freshwater catfish (Aattuvala), and freshwater prawns are abundant in these streams.
Other Species: Diverse dragonflies and butterflies found around these water bodies reflect the health of the local aquatic ecosystem.
4. Flora & Agricultural Diversity
Upputhara's economy is deeply intertwined with nature. The plant diversity here comprises giant trees, medicinal plants, and agricultural crops.
| Category | Key Species |
|---|---|
| Plantation Crops | Tea, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Coffee |
| Traditional Crops | Tapioca (Cassava), Greater Yam, Taro, Coconut, Areca Nut |
| Major Trees | Rosewood, Teak, Terminalia (Maruthu), Wild Jack (Anjili), Jackfruit, Mango |
| Medicinal Plants | Keezharnelli (Phyllanthus niruri), Shatavari, Kurumthotti (Sida cordifolia), Aloe Vera |
Located in the High Range region of Idukki district and forming part of the Western Ghats, Upputhara is an ecologically sensitive area rich in biodiversity. Key plant species adjoining forests and plantations that require special conservation include:
Medicinal Plants: Malabar nut (Aadalodakam), five-leaved chaste tree (Karinocchi), Indian birthwort (Eeshwaramulla), wild snake gourd, and heart-leaved moonseed (Amruthavalli). Many of these traditional medicinal plants face depletion due to agricultural expansion.
Orchids & Epiphytes: The humid climate of the Western Ghats hosts various wild orchids. Epiphytic species—including Malabar orchids growing on tree trunks and rock crevices—face threats from deforestation and rising temperatures.
Endemic Trees: Species unique to the Western Ghats, such as white teak, rosewood, Akil, wild nutmeg, and wild jamun, provide habitat and food for wildlife and must be protected from timber exploitation.
Ferns & Mosses: Growing along stream banks and shaded rock faces, ferns play a critical role in preventing soil erosion and maintaining ambient humidity. Uncontrolled construction work poses a threat to these species.
Key Threats Facing the Ecosystem:
Invasive Species: Exotic flora such as Siam weed (Communist Pacha), touch-me-not varieties, and Lantana camara hinder the growth of native plants.
Agricultural Expansion: Natural vegetation is frequently cleared to expand monoculture plantations of rubber, cardamom, and tea.
Conservation of sacred groves (Kavu), stream and riverbank protection, and reducing chemical pesticide usage are essential to preserving Upputhara's natural biodiversity.
Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC)
To preserve this valuable biodiversity for future generations, the Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) of Upputhara Panchayat functions with active public participation. It systematically maintains the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) and conducts local environmental awareness programs.