The Flora and Fauna of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, an Indian union territory, lie in the Bay of Bengal and are known for their natural beauty, cultural diversity, and strategic significance.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an archipelago positioned withinside the Bay of Bengal, are a treasure trove of biodiversity, web website hosting a colourful array of plants and fauna. This pristine paradise is famend for its lush tropical rainforests, mangroves, and coral reefs, which guide numerous plant and animal species, lots of which might be endemic. The islands` isolation and precise ecosystems have given upward thrust to a numerous variety of wildlife, from majestic saltwater crocodiles and colourful birds to extraordinary orchids and towering evergreen trees..
- Overview of Biodiversity
- Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Endemic Plant Species
- Mangroves and Coastal Vegetation
- Marine Flora
- Fauna of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Endemic Fauna Species
- Reptiles and Amphibians
- Flora and fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands project file
- Flora and fauna of andaman & nicobar islands essay
- Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Overview of Biodiversity
Overview of Biodiversity
The Flora and Fauna of Andaman & Nicobar Islands are famend for his or her wealthy and precise biodiversity. The region`s isolation, numerous habitats, and sundry weather make a contribution to a excessive degree of species richness and endemism.
Unique Ecosystem
1. Marine Ecosystems:
- Coral Reefs: The islands are domestic to giant coral reef systems, which includes the fringing reefs and barrier reefs.
- Mangroves: Mangrove forests alongside the coastlines offer essential breeding grounds for plenty marine species, which includes fish and birds. They additionally play a function in protective coastal regions from erosion.
2. Terrestrial Ecosystems:
- Tropical Rainforests: The islands’ rainforests are wealthy in plants and fauna. The dense forests help quite a few tree species, which includes precious hardwoods, in addition to severa understory plants.
- Unique Fauna: The forests are inhabited through precise species inclusive of the Andaman and Nicobar pigmy hog, the Nicobar pigeon, and numerous endemic reptiles and amphibians.
3. Freshwater Ecosystems:
- Rivers and Streams: Freshwater our bodies at the islands, which includes rivers and streams, are essential for maintaining each terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity. They help species like freshwater fish and amphibians.
4. Avian Diversity:
- Bird Species: The islands are a haven for birdwatchers because of the presence of endemic and migratory fowl species. Notable species encompass the Andaman Woodpecker and the Nicobar pigeon.
5. Marine Biodiversity:
- Marine Life: The waters across the islands are wealthy in marine biodiversity, which includes sea turtles, dolphins, and a huge style of fish species.
Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The plants of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is as numerous and precise as its fauna, way to the region`s numerous climatic situations and geographical isolation. The islands aid more than a few wooded area kinds and awesome plant species that make a contribution to their wealthy biodiversity.
Types of Forests
1. Tropical Rainforests:
- Characteristics: These forests are dense, evergreen, and get hold of excessive tiers of rainfall for the duration of the year. They are discovered withinside the lowlands and are characterised through a multi-layered canopy, with tall timber, a wealthy undergrowth, and excessive humidity.
- Flora: Includes numerous species of hardwood timber, ferns, orchids, and epiphytes. The lush flowers helps a complicated ecosystem.
2. Mangrove Forests:
- Characteristics: Located alongside the coastal regions and estuaries, mangrove forests are tailored to saline situations and tidal influences. They play a critical position in coastal safety and aid numerous marine life.
- Flora: Dominated through mangrove timber including Rhizophora (Red Mangrove), Avicennia (Grey Mangrove), and Sonneratia (Mangrove Apple). These timber have specialised root structures that assist stabilize the soil and clear out out seawater.
3. Semi-Evergreen Forests:
- Characteristics: These forests are discovered in regions with mild rainfall and encompass a mixture of evergreen and deciduous species. They are much less dense than tropical rainforests and feature a greater open canopy.
- Flora: Includes a mixture of hardwood timber, shrubs, and herbs tailored to each moist and dry situations.
4. Bamboo and Grasslands:
- Characteristics: These regions are normally discovered in areas with periodic disturbance or at decrease elevations. Bamboo groves and grasslands are frequently transitional zones among forests and greater evolved regions.
- Flora: Dominated through numerous species of bamboo, grass species, and a few shrubs.
Endemic Plant Species
Endemic Plant Species
Definition:
Endemic plant species are the ones which can be local to and constrained to a selected geographic area. They aren’t determined certainly everywhere else withinside the world. Endemism can arise on diverse scales, from a specific island or area to a whole united states or continent.
Examples of Endemic Plant Species withinside the Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
1. Andaman Padauk (Pterocarpus dalbergioides):
- Description: A big tree species recognised for its vibrant yellow plant life and terrific timber. It is determined solely withinside the Andaman Islands and is essential for neighborhood ecosystems.
2. Nicobar Pigeon Tree (Corypha umbraculifera):
- Description: A palm species with big, fan-fashioned leaves, local to the Nicobar Islands. This palm affords habitat and meals for diverse chook species, consisting of the Nicobar pigeon.
3. Andaman Rosewood (Pterocarpus indicus):
- Description: Known for its reddish-brown timber, this tree is local to the Andaman Islands and is vital for its ecological and financial value.
4. Andaman Mahua (Madhuca latifolia):
- Description: A big tree with fit for human consumption plant life and fruits, utilized in conventional diets and medicine, determined handiest withinside the Andaman Islands.
5. Andaman Bamboo (Dendrocalamus longispathus):
- Description: A bamboo species endemic to the Andaman Islands, used for construction, crafts, and as a meals source.
6. Andaman White Wood (Artocarpus chaplasha):
- Description: A tree with light-coloured timber, determined withinside the rainforests of the Andaman Islands. It is valued for its timber and fruit.
7. Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila):
- Description: A small, creeping plant determined withinside the rainforests of the Andaman Islands, utilized in landscaping and decoration.
Mangroves and Coastal Vegetation
Importance of Mangroves
1. Coastal Protection:
- Erosion Control: Mangroves act as herbal boundaries towards coastal erosion. Their complicated root structures stabilize the coastline and decrease the effect of typhoon surges and excessive waves.
- Flood Mitigation: They assist take in and sluggish down the motion of water at some stage in heavy rainfall and excessive tides, decreasing the threat of flooding in coastal regions.
2. Biodiversity Support:
- Habitat Provision: Mangrove forests offer vital habitats for a huge variety of species, which includes fish, birds, and invertebrates. Many marine species use mangrove regions as breeding and nursery grounds.
- Nutrient Cycling: Mangroves make a contribution to nutrient biking in coastal waters, assisting the productiveness of marine ecosystems.
3. Carbon Sequestration:
- Climate Regulation: Mangrove timber sequester big quantities of carbon dioxide thru their increase and decomposition approaches. This enables mitigate weather extrade through decreasing greenhouse fueloline concentrations withinside the atmosphere.
4. Livelihood Support:
- Fishing and Aquaculture: Mangrove regions aid neighborhood fisheries through imparting breeding and nursery grounds for commercially essential fish species. They additionally play a function in conventional aquaculture practices.
- Resource Use: Communities regularly depend on mangroves for diverse resources, which includes wood, honey, and conventional medicine.
5. Water Quality Improvement:
- Filtration: Mangrove roots assist clear out out and entice sediments, pollutants, and vitamins from land runoff, enhancing the fine of coastal and marine waters.
6. Education and Research:
- Scientific Study: Mangroves are treasured for medical studies on coastal ecology, weather extrade, and species adaptation. They function herbal laboratories for analyzing ecological approaches and conservation methods.
Marine Flora
Coral Reefs and Algae
1. Coral Reefs:
- Stony Corals (Scleractinia): These are the number one reef-constructing corals, consisting of species consisting of Acropora (Staghorn corals), Porites, and Montipora. They shape the tough shape of coral reefs and create complicated habitats for marine life.
- Soft Corals (Alcyonacea): Examples encompass Sea Fans (Gorgonia) and Leather Corals (Sarcophyton). Soft corals upload to the range and shape of reefs however do now no longer make contributions to reef constructing.
Coral Reef Ecosystem:
- Importance: Coral reefs offer crucial habitat for severa marine species, shield coastlines from erosion, and aid neighborhood fisheries and tourism industries.
- Threats: Coral reefs face threats from weather change, ocean acidification, pollution, and overfishing. Conservation efforts are essential to retaining those colourful ecosystems.
2. Algae:
Types of Algae:
Macroalgae (Seaweeds):
- Green Algae (Chlorophyta): Includes species consisting of Codium and Cladophora, that are regularly discovered in shallow waters and make contributions to the marine meals web.
- Brown Algae (Phaeophyta): Includes Sargassum and Padina, which shape large, dense mats that offer habitat and meals for marine organisms.
- Red Algae (Rhodophyta): Includes species like Gracilaria and Eucheuma, that are essential for reef fitness and are utilized in meals and industry.
Microalgae:
- Phytoplankton: Includes diverse species that shape the bottom of the marine meals web, consisting of Diatoms and Dinoflagellates. Phytoplankton are essential for oxygen manufacturing and nutrient cycling.
Importance:
- Habitat and Food Source: Algae offer habitat and meals for a huge variety of marine species, consisting of herbivorous fish and invertebrates.
- Ecosystem Function: They make contributions to nutrient cycling, number one productivity, and the general fitness of marine ecosystems.
Fauna of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Mammals
1. Endemic Mammals:
Wild Pig (Sus scrofa andamanensis):
- Description: A subspecies of the wild pig determined solely withinside the Andaman Islands. It is smaller and darker than its mainland opposite numbers and performs a position withinside the island`s.
Krait (Bungarus andamanensis):
- Description: Although typically a reptile, it’s far sizeable withinside the mammalian meals net as prey for numerous mammals. It is local to the Andaman Islands and is thought for its mighty venom.
Nicobar Nicobar (Macaca fascicularis umbrosus):
- Description: A subspecies of the long-tailed macaque determined withinside the Nicobar Islands. It is a important a part of the nearby ecosystem, interacting with different species and influencing wooded area dynamics.
2. Notable Mammals:
Nicobar Pig (Sus scrofa nicobarensis):
- Description: A awesome subspecies of untamed pig determined withinside the Nicobar Islands. It has tailored to the nearby surroundings and is crucial for the wooded area ecosystem.
Dugong (Dugong dugon):
- Description: A marine mammal determined in shallow coastal waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Dugongs feed on seagrasses and are an crucial indicator species for the fitness of marine environments.
Andaman Sea Cow (Hydrodamalis gigas):
- Description: Often improper for dugongs, those are ancient references to big marine mammals that when inhabited the region. They are actually extinct however have been important to the marine ecosystem.
Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae):
- Description: These big marine mammals are now and again noticed withinside the waters across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for the duration of their migratory journeys. They are acknowledged for his or her acrobatic presentations and complicated songs.
Indian Starred Tortoise (Geochelone elegans):
- Description: Though extra typically determined in mainland India, this tortoise species may be determined on a few islands and is terrific for its distinct star-patterned shell.
Endemic Fauna Species
Unique Animal Species
1. Andaman and Nicobar Endemic Mammals:
Wild Pig (Sus scrofa andamanensis):
- Description: This subspecies of untamed pig is smaller and darker than its mainland counterparts. It performs a position in seed dispersal and is customized to the forested environments of the Andaman Islands.
Nicobar Pig (Sus scrofa nicobarensis):
- Description: A wonderful subspecies of untamed pig located withinside the Nicobar Islands, acknowledged for its precise variations to the nearby surroundings and its position withinside the island`s ecosystems.
Andaman Krait (Bungarus andamanensis):
- Description: An endemic venomous snake of the Andaman Islands, vital withinside the meals chain and acknowledged for its amazing venom.
2. Endemic Birds:
Nicobar Pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica):
- Description: A big pigeon with hanging iridescent plumage, endemic to the Nicobar Islands. It is essential for seed dispersal in tropical forests.
Andaman Teal (Anas albogularis):
- Description: A duck species endemic to the Andaman Islands, inhabiting freshwater and brackish wetlands. It performs a position in preserving the ecological stability of those habitats.
Andaman Woodpecker (Dryocopus hodgei):
- Description: This woodpecker is local to the Andaman Islands, acknowledged for its exclusive drumming and position in controlling insect populations.
3. Endemic Reptiles and Amphibians:
Andaman Water Monitor (Varanus salvator andamanensis):
- Description: A big display lizard subspecies located withinside the Andaman Islands, it’s far an vital predator withinside the island’s ecosystems.
Nicobar Tree Frog (Polypedates maculatus):
- Description: An endemic frog species located withinside the Nicobar Islands, acknowledged for its arboreal conduct and position withinside the nearby amphibian community.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Notable Species
1. Reptiles
Andaman Water Monitor (Varanus salvator andamanensis):
- Description: A big subspecies of the water screen lizard, it’s miles observed withinside the Andaman Islands. This screen lizard can develop as much as 2.5 meters in length.
- Habitat: Prefers quite a number habitats together with mangroves, riverbanks, and coastal areas.
Nicobar Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei):
- Description: An endemic species observed withinside the Nicobar Islands. It is a notably smaller screen lizard acknowledged for its arboreal life-style.
- Habitat: Primary forests and mangrove areas.
Andaman Python (Python molurus andamanensis):
- Description: A subspecies of the Indian python observed withinside the Andaman Islands. It is a big constrictor snake that may develop as much as five meters in length.
- Habitat: Dense forests and close to water bodies.
2. Amphibians
Nicobar Tree Frog (Polypedates maculatus):
- Description: An endemic frog species observed withinside the Nicobar Islands. It is customized to an arboreal life-style and is understood for its vocalizations and camouflage.
- Habitat: Rainforests and wet forested areas.
Andaman Pond Frog (Rana cancrivora):
- Description: A species of frog observed withinside the Andaman Islands, frequently observed in freshwater ponds and marshes.
- Habitat: Wetlands and slow-transferring water bodies.
Andaman Leaf Litter Frog (Indosylvirana andamanensis):
- Description: An endemic frog species acknowledged for its cryptic color that facilitates it combo into the leaf muddle of its woodland habitat.
- Habitat: Forest ground and leaf muddle.
Flora and fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands project file
1. Introduction
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a collection of 572 islands withinside the Bay of Bengal, regarded for his or her particular and numerous ecosystem. Their isolation has resulted withinside the upkeep of uncommon species of flora and animals.
2. Tropical Rainforests
The islands are blanketed through dense tropical rainforests that encompass evergreen, deciduous, and mangrove species, which offer safe haven to numerous sorts of life.
3. Endemic Flora
Many plant species are endemic to those islands, inclusive of Andaman Padauk, Andaman Redwood, and wild orchids, making them exceptional to this region.
4. Mangroves and Coastal Vegetation
Mangrove forests are ample alongside the coastline, protective the islands from erosion and serving as a essential habitat for marine and terrestrial species.
5. Marine Biodiversity
The islands are surrounded through colourful coral reefs and seagrass beds which might be domestic to marine species like sea turtles, dugongs, and a whole lot of fish.
6. Unique Fauna
The fauna consists of endemic species inclusive of the Andaman wild pig, Nicobar megapode (a flightless fowl), and saltwater crocodiles that inhabit the islands` dense forests and wetlands.
7. Avian Diversity
Over 270 fowl species, consisting of Andaman Woodpecker and Nicobar Pigeon, are located here, with lots of them being endemic.
8. Threatened Species
Several species withinside the islands are endangered, consisting of the leatherback turtle and the dugong, necessitating sturdy conservation efforts.
9. Tribal Coexistence with Nature
Indigenous tribes of the islands, inclusive of the Great Andamanese and Nicobarese, stay in concord with the herbal environment, counting on its assets sustainably.
10. Conservation Efforts
The islands are included beneathneath strict environmental regulations, with numerous flora and fauna sanctuaries, country wide parks, and biosphere reserves installed to keep this wealthy biodiversity.
Flora and fauna of andaman & nicobar islands essay
Flora and Fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a fascinating archipelago withinside the Bay of Bengal, are a sanctuary of extraordinary biodiversity. Comprising over 572 islands, this far off area is famend for its specific and thriving ecosystems, domestic to an extraordinary form of plant life and fauna. The herbal splendor and ecological importance of those islands cause them to a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The islands are included with the aid of using lush tropical rainforests that encompass evergreen, deciduous, and mangrove plant life. Towering timber like Andaman Padauk, Mahua, and wild fruit-bearing plant life dominate the forests, at the same time as colourful orchids upload a hint of elegance. Coastal plant life consists of mangroves that guard the islands from erosion and function important breeding grounds for marine life. Several plant species, consisting of Andaman Redwood and Nicobar Breadfruit, are endemic, that means they may be observed nowhere else withinside the world.
Fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The islands host a high-quality variety of flora and fauna, each terrestrial and marine. Unique species consisting of the Andaman wild pig, Nicobar long-tailed macaque, and saltwater crocodile inhabit the dense forests and wetlands. Avian variety is astonishing, with over 270 species of birds, together with the Andaman Woodpecker, Nicobar Pigeon, and White-bellied Sea Eagle. Coral reefs surrounding the islands teem with marine creatures, together with sea turtles, dugongs, and colourful fish, contributing to the colourful underwater ecosystem.
Endemic Species
The isolation of the islands has given upward thrust to severa endemic species. Animals just like the Nicobar megapode (a flightless bird) and the Andaman teal are observed completely here, underscoring the area`s ecological uniqueness.
Conservation Challenges and Efforts
Despite their ecological richness, the islands face massive threats from human activities, habitat destruction, and weather change. Rising sea levels, coral bleaching, and invasive species are urgent concerns. To cope with those challenges, numerous countrywide parks, flora and fauna sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves were established. The authorities additionally enforces strict policies to shield the surroundings and its inhabitants.
Freqently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What types of forests are found in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Ans. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands host a variety of forest types, including tropical rainforests, mangrove forests, and montane forests. These forests support a diverse range of plant and animal species.
Q2: What are some notable plant species endemic to the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Ans.Endemic plant species include the Andaman Padauk (Pterocarpus dalbergioides), Andaman Bamboo (Dendrocalamus andamanensis), and Nicobar Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum). These species are adapted to the unique climatic and soil conditions of the islands.
Q3: Why are mangroves important in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Ans. Mangroves are crucial for coastal protection, providing habitats for various marine species, including fish and birds. They help prevent coastal erosion, improve water quality, and support biodiversity.
Q4: What are some notable reptile species found in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Ans. Notable reptile species include the Andaman Water Monitor (Varanus salvator andamanensis), Nicobar Tree Monitor (Varanus macraei), and Andaman Python (Python molurus andamanensis). These species are integral to the islands’ ecosystems.
Q5: Can you name a few endemic amphibians of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Ans.Endemic amphibians include the Nicobar Tree Frog (Polypedates maculatus), Andaman Pond Frog (Rana cancrivora), and Andaman Leaf Litter Frog (Indosylvirana andamanensis). These species are adapted to the islands’ unique habitats.
Q6: What is the flora and fauna of Andaman Nicobar island?
Ans.The forest coverage is estimated to be 86.2% of the total land area with about 2,200 varieties of plants of which 200 are endemic and 1,300 do not occur in mainland India. There are more than 200 species used for timber. There are more than 8300 species of fauna of which 1117 are endemic to the islands.
Q7: What are the plants found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
| Sl. No. | Name of Plants | Family |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Abrus precatorius L. | Fabaceae |
| 2. | Acacia auriculiformis Benth. | Mimosaceae |
| 3. | Acalypha hispida Burm.f. | Euphorbiaceae |
| 4. | Acalypha indica L. | Euphorbiaceae |
| 5. | Acalypha wilkesiana Müll.Arg. | Euphorbiaceae |
| 6. | Acampe rigida (Buch.-Ham. ex Sm) P.F. Hunt | Orchidaceae |
| 7. | Achyranthe saspera L. | Amaranthaceae |
