A maiden voyage into uncharted territories is underway as the Forest Department, along with specialists from Kerala and northeastern States, kick-start a unique survey of butterfly species in the Papikonda National Park. Located in Andhra Pradesh, this park extends over 1012.86 square kilometres across the East and West Godavari districts.
The Rich History of the Papikonda National Park
The journey of Papikonda from being a reserved forest to a national park signifies increased levels of protection it has received over time. The initial tag of a reserved forest was assigned in 1882. This status levelled up to a wildlife sanctuary in 1978, ultimately culminating into being declared a national park in 2008.
It encompasses a variety of geographical features, positioned on both the left and right banks of the river Godavari, and intrudes into the Papikonda hill range of Eastern Ghats. The lush landscape is completed by the River Godavari that embellishes the park with its natural grandeur.
Diverse Flora and Fauna of the Park
The Papikonda Park is predominantly clad in a lush cover of moist deciduous forest. A rich assortment of animal species, big and small, are found here. Significant inhabitants like tigers, mouse deer, gaur and more find their home in the protective shelter of this park.
| Year | Status Transformation |
|---|---|
| 1882 | Reserved Forest |
| 1978 | Wildlife Sanctuary |
| 2008 | National Park |
Present Scenario and Future Prospects
Undertaking the maiden survey of butterfly species in this park is a testament to the diverse ecological significance of the area. This expedition marks an important step in understanding the biodiversity of this region and potentially uncovering new species. The information gathered during this survey will not only increase our knowledge about butterflies and their habitats but will also aid in planning effective conservation strategies.
The presence of butterfly species can act as an important indicator of the health of the park’s ecosystem. Butterflies are sensitive to environmental changes and their populations can indicate the impact of environmental stressors such as climate change, pollution or habitat degradation.
In the larger picture, the results of this survey will contribute significantly towards biodiversity conservation efforts at both regional and national levels. By unveiling the biodiversity secrets hidden in the heart of Papikonda National Park, we are underlining the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.