Subject: GS-1 – India and World Geography
Context:
- Agumbe in Shivamogga district of Karnataka had been christened as the ‘Cherrapunji of the South’ for receiving over 8,000 mm of rainfall during the monsoon.
More on News about Agumbe:
- Agumbe Rainforest Complex received its peak rainfall of 6,000 mm during the monsoon months of June and August. In the past two years, the peak monsoon rainfall has decreased (5,250-5,500 mm), causing Agumbe to lose its title to Nadpal, a town in Udupi district.
- The IMD predicted that India would receive less rain than usual this year, but the Western Ghats would receive more rain than usual. However, the monsoon stalled for over 22 days in August, which means that the Western Ghats received no rain at all.
About Agumbe Rainforest Complex:
- Agumbe Rainforest Complex (ARC) is a biodiversity hotspot located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
- It is known for its heavy rainfall, which can exceed 8,000 mm per year.
- The first rain gauge was installed in 1882 in Agumbe by the British.
Unique Features of the Agumbe Rainforest Complex:
- It is home to the world’s only natural habitat of the King Cobra.
- It is a biodiversity hotspot, with over 500 species of birds, 130 species of mammals, and 60 species of reptiles and amphibians.
- Agumbe Rainforest Complex is an important watershed for the region, feeding a number of rivers and streams.
- It is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and its diverse wildlife.
- Threats to Agumbe Rainforest Complex: The ARC is also facing a number of threats, including climate change, deforestation, and poaching.
Tropical Evergreen Forests in India:
- Found in heavy rainfall areas of the Western Ghats, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar, Assam, and Tamil Nadu coast.
- Best in areas with >200 cm rainfall and a short dry season.
- Trees reach great heights (up to 60 meters or above).
- Multilayered structure with luxuriant vegetation of trees, shrubs, and creepers.
- No definite time for trees to shed their leaves, so forests appear green all year round.
- Flora: Ebony, Jackfruit, Mahogany, Rosewood, Rubber, and Cinchona.
- Fauna: Elephant, Monkey, Lemur, Deer, One-horned Rhinoceros (Assam and West Bengal). birds, bats, sloths, scorpions, and snails.
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Source: DTE
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September 20, 2023
