India’s Assam region is embarking on a unique conservation program aimed at preserving the area’s turtle population. The initiative, which intertwines religious faith, local community involvement and ecological preservation, utilizes the extensive network of temples across the state as breeding grounds for several turtle species that have gone extinct in the wild. The article delves into the specifics of this innovative approach, the challenges faced, and lists some of the important turtle species found in the area.
Temple-based Turtle Breeding
Across Assam, numerous temples are involved in a distinctive effort to conserve and breed endangered and extinct-in-the-wild turtle species. The profound reverence attached to these creatures anguishes their plight. Many locals believe that turtles are the earthly embodiment of Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Their survival in temple ponds is a testament to this faith. In this system, the temples act as sanctuaries where these turtles are bred before they are released back into the wild.
The Challenges
Despite the initial success, the temple-based breeding programme faces a series of hurdles. Due to excessive population, many temple ponds house more turtles than they can sustainably support. This overpopulation has resulted in a lack of adequate egg-laying space, mainly induced by beautifications like concrete boundaries around these ponds. Another significant concern is the diet of these turtles. They are often fed unnatural food items such as bread and wheat balls, which disrupts their biology significantly.
Endemic Turtle Species in India
India is home to an astounding 28 species of turtles, and out of these, 20 are found in the state of Assam. These include a variety of both endangered and common species.
| Species Name | Scientific Name |
|---|---|
| Black Softshell Turtle | Nilssonia Nigricans |
| Indian Roofed Turtle | Pangshura Tecta |
Threats to Turtle Survival
The survival of turtles, despite their religious significance, is hindered by several threats. Consumption of turtle meat and eggs poses a significant issue, predominantly in remote areas. Encroachment of wetlands, habitat loss due to silt mining, and changes in flooding patterns due to climate change are other major threats to these aquatic creatures’ existence. Concerted efforts from all sectors of society are crucial to mitigate these challenges and ensure the survival of these vital members of our ecosystem.