kerala study tour

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Kerala Study Tour AGR 492 A study tour report for the assessment of course of AGR 492 submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of B.sc Forestry Submitted By: Ankush Moran Section- B2339 Regd. No. : 11308049 Supervised by: Mr. Vivek Srivastava Lovely Professional University Phagwara, Punjab, 144402, India

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Page 1: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

AGR 492

A study tour report for the assessment of course of AGR 492 submitted

in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of

B.sc Forestry

Submitted By:

Ankush Moran

Section- B2339

Regd. No. : 11308049

Supervised by:

Mr. Vivek Srivastava

Lovely Professional University

Phagwara, Punjab, 144402, India

Page 2: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Mr. Ankush Moran has attended the study tour to Kerala in the partial

fulfillment for the award of degree of B.Sc Forestry. The tour has been carried out in Forest

Department of Kerala under the guidance of Mr. Vivek Srivastava, Assistant Professor at Lovely

Professional University, Phagwara.

Mr. Vivek Srivastava Dr. Madhu Sharma

Tour Supervisor HOD in Forest Department

Page 3: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I would like to thanks our Professor Mr. Vivek Srivastava who took such pain and helped making

this tour possible for all of us. He is not only a Professor but he is a true guide who enlightens

the future of a student. He was always with us in the tour and guided wherever we faced

problems. I am thankful to him for his efforts in planning this study tour and making it

wonderful for all.

I would also like to express my sincere thanks to our HOD, Dr.Madhu Sharma for providing me

opportunity to undergo such wonderful tour, which helps us in getting practical knowledge

about our field work.

With deep respect I express my unfeigned gratitude and unforgettable indebtedness to the

principal, Kerala Forest School, Walayar for providing all the facilities and support during my

study tour.

I wish to pay high regards to my loving parents and grandparents for their sincere

encouragement and motivation throughout my career and lifting me uphill in this phase of life. I

owe everything to them and Iam grateful to my Grandfather, Dad and Mom for their overall

support, which gave me immense strength to face real life confrontation.

I acknowledge a very special thanks to the scientist, forest officers, officials and guides of KFRI,

Parambikulam tiger reserve and silent valley national park for providing the detailed

information about the various aspects of their respective departments and area for their

support during the entire tour.

Page 4: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

List of Figures

Pic1 Dance of onam festival 8

Pic2 Caprisoned elephants during temple festival 8

Pic3 Kerala people celebrating festivals 9

Pic4 Entrance of KFRI 13

Pic5 KFRI campus 13

Pic6 KFRI peechi campus map 14

Pic7 Tree Ring Station 16

Pic8 Xylarium 16

Pic9 Bambusetum 17

Pic10 KFRI Palmetum 18

Pic11 JRF showing herbarium file 19

Pic12 Various medicinal tree species 20

Pic13 Xylarium 20

Pic14 Preserved specimens inside KFRI wildlife museum 21

Pic15 Some pictures of butterfly garden 22

Pic16 Teak saplings inside mist chamber at KFRI 23

Pic17 Seed centre at KFRI 24

Pic18 Front view of KFRI guest house 25

Pic19 Group photo with Scientist Dr. Mohan Das 26

Pic20 Side view of peechi dam 26

Pic21 Entrance of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve 27

Pic22 Wild gaurs blocking passing vehicles 27

Pic23 Facts of Kannimara Teak 28

Pic24 Me and my colleagues standing near the Kannimara teak 28

Pic25 Group photo in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve 28

Pic26 Group photo with Range Officer 28

Pic27 View of Athirapally falls 29

Pic28 Looking down at the falls 29

Pic29 Entrance gate of Silent Valley National Park 30

Pic30 Lion tailed macaque 31

Pic31 Nilgiri wood pigeon 31

Pic32 Malabar Giant Squirrel 31

Pic33 Hanging bridge across the Kuntipuzha river 31

Pic34 Kollam beach, Quilon 32

Pic35 Mahatma Gandhi Park in Kollam beach 32

Page 5: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Table of Contents

Certificate……………………………………………………………………………………………………2 Acknowledgement………………………………………………………………………………………3 List of Figures………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………………….5

1 .PREFACE…………………………………………………………………6

2. INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………...7-9

2.1 Socio-cultural Diversity of Kerala…………………………7

2.2 Onam………………………………………………………………8

2.3 Elephants in Kerala Culture………………………………8

2.4 Temple Festivals…………………………………………….9

3 OBJECTIVES OF STUDY TOUR…………………………………….10

4 Daily Diary………………………………………………………………11

5 LEARNING FROM STUDY TOUR………………………………….12

6 STUDY AREA…………………………………………………………..13-32

6.1 Kerala Forest Research Institute………………………..13-26

6.2 Parambikulam Tiger Reserve………………………………27-28

6.3Athirapally Falls………………………………………………….29

6.4Silent Valley National Park……………………………………30-31

6.5Kollam Beach……………………………………………………….32

7 CONCLUSION………………………………………………………….33

Page 6: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

1. PREFACE

“I consider them wretches who strut about in their fineries not doing anything for the suffering

millions”. Swami Vivekananda

It is just about unfurling our sails of countless yearnings and catching the wind of

scenic views, wonderful wildlife, ritualistic culture, dynamic mountains, perennial rivers, caves

falls and beaches of incredible India. It is the nature only which turns as a cradle of all flora and

fauna. Now it is our turn, what we give to our nature. However it is very shameful matter that

we are ruining the nature. We are responsible for air and water pollution, population explosion,

poverty, loss of wildlife, degradation of moral values and terrorism etc. In our scriptures, we

have always regarded the Earth as Dharti Mata with the motive of Vasudevkutumbkam i.e.

Global Village. Undoubtedly, technology has made it possible today by means of transportation,

communication and socio-economic affiliations. So let us hope for the best because hope sees

the invisible, feels the intangible and achieve the impossible. We should preserve our ancestral

values, so that the nature could be saved for the generations to come. For our youth study

tours to different places enriched with natural beauty play a vital role.

Page 7: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

2. INTRODUCTION

Lovely Professional University as a part of its goodwill organized a study tour to Kerala for B.Sc

Forestry 2nd year students. It really made a difference. The students witnessed a wonderful

flora and fauna of South India, which they almost have found in the text books. LPU organized a

tour to Kerala from May 30th to June 12th 2015 for a group of nine students and a Professor. The

group was transported to Kerala from New Delhi by Mangla Express train. It took total 13 days

when the group reached back to New Delhi by Amritsar Express. It was a wonderful tour; the

group has got wonderful experiences. Truly speaking, me and my team mates enjoyed the

whole tour for our love for nature, socio-cultural diversity of India besides academic benefits.

SOCIO CULTURAL DIVERSITY OF KERALA

The culture of Kerala is a synthesis of Aryan and Dravidian cultures, developed and mixed for

centuries, under influences from other parts of India and abroad. It is defined by its antiquity

and the organic continuity sustained by the Malayali people. Modern Kerala society took shape

owing to migrations from different parts of India throughout Classical Antiquity. Kerala trace its

non-prehistoric cultural genesis to its membership (around the 3rd century CE) in a vaguely

defined historical region known as Thamizhagom — a land defined by a common Tamil culture

and encompassing the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms. At that time, the music, dance,

language (first Dravida Bhasha — "Dravidian language" — then Tamil), and Sangam (a vast

corpus of Tamil literature composed between 1,500–2,000 years ago) found in Kerala were all

similar to that found in the rest of Thamizhagom (today's Tamil Nadu). The culture of Kerala

evolved through the Sanskritization of Dravidian ethos, revivalism of religious movements and

reform movements against caste discrimination. Kerala showcases a culture unique to itself

developed through accommodation, acculturation and assimilation of various faculties of

civilized lifestyle.

Page 8: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Onam

Figure 1 Dance of onam festival

(Malayalam: ഓണം) Onam is a harvest festival celebrated by the people of Kerala, India. It is

also the state festival of Kerala with State holidays on 4 days starting from Onam Eve (Uthradom) to the 4th Onam Day(Aug - Sep) and marks the commemoration of homecoming of King Mahabali, Kerala's agrarian past, as it is considered to be a harvest festival. It is one of the festivals celebrated with most number of cultural elements. Some of them are Vallam Kali, Pulikkali, Pookkalam, Onatthappan, Thumbi, Thullal, OnavilluAtthachamayame etc.

Elephants in Kerala culture

Figure 2Caparisoned elephants during Sree Poornathravesa temple festival.

The elephants are an integral part of the daily life in Kerala. These Indian prestigious place in the state's culture. Elephants in Kerala are often referred to as the 'sons of the sahya. The elephant is the state animal of Kerala and is featured on the emblem of the Government of Kerala.

Kerala Study Tour

) Onam is a harvest festival celebrated by the people of Kerala, India. It is

also the state festival of Kerala with State holidays on 4 days starting from Onam Eve (Uthradom) to the 4th Onam Day. Onam festival falls during the Malayalam month of Chingam

Sep) and marks the commemoration of Vamana avatar of Vishnu and the subsequent who Malayalees consider as their King. Onam is reminiscent of

ast, as it is considered to be a harvest festival. It is one of the festivals celebrated with most number of cultural elements. Some of them are Vallam Kali, Pulikkali,

an, Thumbi, Thullal, Onavillu, Kazhchakkula, Onapottan,

Elephants in Kerala culture

Caparisoned elephants during Sree Poornathravesa temple festival.

The elephants are an integral part of the daily life in Kerala. These Indian elephantsprestigious place in the state's culture. Elephants in Kerala are often referred to as the 'sons of

. The elephant is the state animal of Kerala and is featured on the emblem of the

) Onam is a harvest festival celebrated by the people of Kerala, India. It is

also the state festival of Kerala with State holidays on 4 days starting from Onam Eve month of Chingam

avatar of Vishnu and the subsequent who Malayalees consider as their King. Onam is reminiscent of

ast, as it is considered to be a harvest festival. It is one of the festivals celebrated with most number of cultural elements. Some of them are Vallam Kali, Pulikkali,

, Kazhchakkula, Onapottan,

elephants are given a prestigious place in the state's culture. Elephants in Kerala are often referred to as the 'sons of

. The elephant is the state animal of Kerala and is featured on the emblem of the

Page 9: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Temple Festivals

Figure

Kerala has a large number of temples. The temples celebrate annual festivals which are not only unique to the region but sometimes have features that are unique to each temple. Each temple describes each interesting history behind its creation.

Kerala Study Tour

Figure 3Kerala people celebrating festival

Kerala has a large number of temples. The temples celebrate annual festivals which are not only sometimes have features that are unique to each temple. Each temple

describes each interesting history behind its creation.

Kerala has a large number of temples. The temples celebrate annual festivals which are not only sometimes have features that are unique to each temple. Each temple

Page 10: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

3. OBJECTIVES OF STUDY TOUR

A dense forest to acquire an in-depth knowledge about the forests, which helps us to

know about various ecosystems, identification of different tree species, study about the

invasive exotics, various threats to the biodiversity and diseases affecting the growth of

the tree.

A wildlife sanctuary is to know about the different species of wildlife, their habitats and

niche, their interaction with various ecosystems, threat due to poaching and hunting,

and the conservation practices carried out in the sanctuary. The western ghats is a

biodiversity hotspot. A visit would provide a conceptual knowledge and experience.

A research institute to look into the advances into the field of forestry and it would also

help in knowing about how research work is carried out. We will know about the

sustainable and economical ways of conserving the forests and ways of increasing forest

cover.

Page 11: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

4. DAILY DIARY

30/05/2015 – Started our trip from Phagwara Railway Station to Delhi.

31/05/2015 – We arrived the Hazrat Nizzammudin Railway Station and joined with our

tour supervisor and other team mates. We departed from there to kerala in the morning

by Mangla Express.

1/06/2015 – The train travelled through various stations and we sighted many new

places from inside the train.

2/06/2015 – Reached Shornur by morning and hired a traveler to KFRI. Sighted Malabar

giant squirrel in the KFRI campus and had a conference with scientist DR. Mohan Das.

3/06/2015 – Next morning had breakfast and visited various departments of KFRI and

also visited Peechi dam.

4/06/2015 – Woke early in the morning and approached towards Parambikulam Tiger

Reserve.

5/06/2015 – Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

6/06/2015 – Atthirapally falls / Wallayar Forest School

7/06/2015 – Silent Valley National Park

8/06/2015 – Silent Valley National Park

9/06/2015 – Kollam Beach

10/06/2015 – Return via Amritsar Express

Page 12: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

5. LEARNING FROM THE STUDY TOUR

After attending this tour, I have acquainted myself with the objective of

conservation and management of Biodiversity, Forests and Ecosystems.

I have learnt about the use and function of certain instruments used in wood science

technology department which are important for determining various standards in

the field of forestry. Some of the instruments are Tree Ring Station and Microtome

which are used for determining the age of tree and tree sectioning respectively.

I have familiarized myself with the function of herbarium, xylarium, arboretum,

palmatum and bambusetum.

I have acquainted myself with the various techniques such as tissue culture, genetic

engineering, gas chromatography and their application in forestry.

I have also learnt about the zoological museum in which specimens of dead animals

are preserved.

This study tour has helped me a lot in getting the knowledge about the cultural,

social and biological diversity in kerala.

I have also acquainted myself with the knowledge of climatic conditions prevailing in

Kerala.

Page 13: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6. STUDY AREA

6.1 Kerala Forest Research Institute

Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) is a multidisciplinary team of experts conducting

research on tropical forests and

in tropical forestry and biodiversity conservation over the past three decades of its existence.

Founded in 1975, Institute is envisioned as a Centre of Excellence in Tropical Forestry to p

scientific support for decision making on matters related to forestry, with particular emphasis

on conservation, sustainable utilization and scientific management of natural resources. KFRI

became a part of the Kerala State Council for Science, Tech

along with five other R&D Centre’s of the State, when the KSCSTE was constituted in 2002.

Figure 4 Entrance of kerala forest research institute Figure

KFRI has 56 highly qualified scientific staff and about 150 supporting and administrative staff.

The man power is organized in to 17 Research Departments which are grouped as nine

Programme Divisions so that the researc

KFRI.

Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Forest Research Institute

Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) is a multidisciplinary team of experts conducting

research on tropical forests and forestry. This Institute has contributed significantly to research

in tropical forestry and biodiversity conservation over the past three decades of its existence.

Founded in 1975, Institute is envisioned as a Centre of Excellence in Tropical Forestry to p

scientific support for decision making on matters related to forestry, with particular emphasis

on conservation, sustainable utilization and scientific management of natural resources. KFRI

became a part of the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)

along with five other R&D Centre’s of the State, when the KSCSTE was constituted in 2002.

Entrance of kerala forest research institute Figure 5 KFRI campus

KFRI has 56 highly qualified scientific staff and about 150 supporting and administrative staff.

The man power is organized in to 17 Research Departments which are grouped as nine

Programme Divisions so that the research activities converge to contribute to the Vision of

Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) is a multidisciplinary team of experts conducting

forestry. This Institute has contributed significantly to research

in tropical forestry and biodiversity conservation over the past three decades of its existence.

Founded in 1975, Institute is envisioned as a Centre of Excellence in Tropical Forestry to provide

scientific support for decision making on matters related to forestry, with particular emphasis

on conservation, sustainable utilization and scientific management of natural resources. KFRI

nology and Environment (KSCSTE)

along with five other R&D Centre’s of the State, when the KSCSTE was constituted in 2002.

KFRI has 56 highly qualified scientific staff and about 150 supporting and administrative staff.

The man power is organized in to 17 Research Departments which are grouped as nine

h activities converge to contribute to the Vision of

Page 14: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

We undertake research and consultancy programmes for national and international agencies on

the issues relating to biological conservation and management of natural resources. KFRI has

about fifty scientists supported by a strong team of skilled and qualified man power in various

areas including documentation, accounting, administration, engineering etc. Institute is

accredited as research centre of the FRI University Dehradun, University of Calicut and Cochin

University of Science and Technology for enrolling students for research programme leading to

award of PhD Degree.

Institute has well maintained state of the art instrumentation centre besides specialized

laboratories for research in Tissue-culture, Clonal Multiplication, Physiology, Wildlife Biology,

Soil Science, Biotechnology, Wood Sciences, Biochemistry, Mycology, Entomology, and

Silviculture.

Institute staff over the period of three decades of their field visits to remote forest localities

across India has accumulated impressive collections of plant and animal specimens, and

pedological samples which are organised as: Arboretum, Bambusetum, Cane and Palmetum,

Herbarium, Medicinal Plants, Soil museum, Xylarium, Wildlife Museum, Teak Museum. The

Guided Nature Trails and Thematic Displays on forestry and environment with the extension

and training division deserve special mention.

Visiting KFRI

Main Campus of KFRI is situated in central Kerala at Peechi, Thrissur a sylvan location situated

in the Western Ghats- one of the global biodiversity hotspots. Campus is located in 28 ha

Reserve Forest area adjacent to Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.

Figure 6 KFRI: Peechi campus

KFRI is well connected by rail and road. The institute is located about 20 km east of Thrissur

town along the Pattikkad-Peechi road. Nearest railway station is at Thrissur (TCR, 20 km from

KFRI). Nearby airports are Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery (COK, 65 km from

KFRI) and the Coimbatore Airport (CJB, 115 km from KFRI) in Tamil Nadu.

Page 15: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6.1.1 Laboratories:

Tissue Culture

Tissue culture lab is a facility in Department of Biotechnology under Forest Genetics and

Biotechnology Division.

In this lab tissue culture technology of various forest trees viz. teak, sandal, bamboo, calamus

etc. as well as many endangered, endemic and threatened tree taxa has been standardised.

Most of these technologies are commercially recommended for large scale propagation of

forest trees.

Plant tissue culture relies on the fact that many plant cells have the ability to regenerate a

whole plant (totipotency). Single cells, plant cells without cell walls (protoplasts), pieces of

leaves, or (less commonly) roots can often be used to generate a new plant on culture media

given the required nutrients and plant hormones. The main advantage of this technique is the

production of exact copies of parent plant.

Equipments include laminar airflows, autoclaves, bioreactor, high speed refrigerated

centrifuges, PCR machines, spectrophotometer, nanodrop, gel electrophoresis and gel

documentation units, ice flaker machines and deep freezers etc.

Clonal Multiplication

Commercial propagation of Teak, Bamboo and around 25 medicinal plants such as Aegle

marmelos, Gmelina arborea, Saraca asoka, Terminalia arjuna, Stereospermum colais, Oroxylum

indicum, Clerodendrum serratum, Salacia fruticosa etc. for which KFRI has standardised the

clonal propagation procedure. Research programme for standardization of clonal propagation

of imported forest trees are also in progress at the institute.

A clonal nursery for vegetative multiplication of E. grandis, the high range species, a mist

chamber and a store/office cum potting shed was constructed at Devikulam. The facility is

established at about 1.5 km away from Munnar Forest Division Office in the 1994-Kacheriland

E. grandis plantation.

Wood science & Technology Lab

Wood Science and Technology Laboratory is attached to Wood Science and Technology Division

and it is the only one of its sort with R & D orientation in Wood Science and Technology in the

state. The laboratory was established in1980 and has facilities for Wood Preservation, Wood

Seasoning, Wood Anatomy and Timber Identification, Wood Quality Assessments, Wood

Page 16: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Utilization, Bamboo and Rattan Processing, Bamboo House, Rubber wood processing, Charcoal

and Activated Carbon, etc. The lab is equipped with Sledge Microtome, Leica Image Analysis

system, Olympus Dual-view Microscope, Nikon T

microscope, Universal Testing Machine, FT

Refrigerated Centrifuge, Automated Soxtec Extraction System, and Homogenizer etc.

Figure 7 Tree Ring Station

6.1.2 Collections & Interpretations

Arboretum

The Arboretum in the main campus of Kerala Forest Research Institute at Peechi is spread in

five hectares. The biotope is moist deciduous forests with 33 tree species. The present holding

of the Arboretum is 3089 accessions belonging to 170 species under 5

genera, with more than 50 taxa endemic to southern Peninsular India. Arboretum is maintained

with grid maps with markings of the location details of each of the live collection. The

Arboretum is also recognized internationally by inclusi

1518 and is also enlisted in the National Network of Botanical Gardens in India, the Arboretum

promises to be a rewarding experience to visiting students.

Seedlings of different arborescent species belonging to the mois

along with those of endemic species from the semi evergreen, evergreen and dry deciduous

forest types are present in the Arboretum.

At present, there are 170 taxa of woody species in the arboretum. They belong to one

gymnosperm and 169 angiosperm species. Among the angiosperms, 162 taxa are dicotyledons

belonging to 118 genera and 47 families. Monocotyledons are represented by 7 species of 3

genera and 2 families. Among the total 170 species in the Arboretum, 49 species are

Peninsular Indian endemics.

Kerala Study Tour

Utilization, Bamboo and Rattan Processing, Bamboo House, Rubber wood processing, Charcoal

and Activated Carbon, etc. The lab is equipped with Sledge Microtome, Leica Image Analysis

view Microscope, Nikon Trinolcular Polarized and Fluorescence

microscope, Universal Testing Machine, FT-NIR spectroscopy, UV-VIS Spectrophotometer,

Refrigerated Centrifuge, Automated Soxtec Extraction System, and Homogenizer etc.

Figure 8 Xylarium

& Interpretations

The Arboretum in the main campus of Kerala Forest Research Institute at Peechi is spread in

five hectares. The biotope is moist deciduous forests with 33 tree species. The present holding

of the Arboretum is 3089 accessions belonging to 170 species under 50 families and 122

genera, with more than 50 taxa endemic to southern Peninsular India. Arboretum is maintained

with grid maps with markings of the location details of each of the live collection. The

Arboretum is also recognized internationally by inclusion in the Index Seminum with ID No.

1518 and is also enlisted in the National Network of Botanical Gardens in India, the Arboretum

promises to be a rewarding experience to visiting students.

Seedlings of different arborescent species belonging to the moist deciduous forests of the State

along with those of endemic species from the semi evergreen, evergreen and dry deciduous

forest types are present in the Arboretum.

At present, there are 170 taxa of woody species in the arboretum. They belong to one

sperm and 169 angiosperm species. Among the angiosperms, 162 taxa are dicotyledons

belonging to 118 genera and 47 families. Monocotyledons are represented by 7 species of 3

genera and 2 families. Among the total 170 species in the Arboretum, 49 species are

Utilization, Bamboo and Rattan Processing, Bamboo House, Rubber wood processing, Charcoal

and Activated Carbon, etc. The lab is equipped with Sledge Microtome, Leica Image Analysis

rinolcular Polarized and Fluorescence

VIS Spectrophotometer,

Refrigerated Centrifuge, Automated Soxtec Extraction System, and Homogenizer etc.

The Arboretum in the main campus of Kerala Forest Research Institute at Peechi is spread in

five hectares. The biotope is moist deciduous forests with 33 tree species. The present holding

0 families and 122

genera, with more than 50 taxa endemic to southern Peninsular India. Arboretum is maintained

with grid maps with markings of the location details of each of the live collection. The

on in the Index Seminum with ID No.

1518 and is also enlisted in the National Network of Botanical Gardens in India, the Arboretum

t deciduous forests of the State

along with those of endemic species from the semi evergreen, evergreen and dry deciduous

At present, there are 170 taxa of woody species in the arboretum. They belong to one

sperm and 169 angiosperm species. Among the angiosperms, 162 taxa are dicotyledons

belonging to 118 genera and 47 families. Monocotyledons are represented by 7 species of 3

genera and 2 families. Among the total 170 species in the Arboretum, 49 species are southern

Page 17: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Bambusetum

Figure 9 Bambusetum

The KFRI-Bambusetum was established during 1988

FRC campus Veluppadam. 63 different

this, 55 species are in the Field Research Centre, Velupadam and the remaining 8 species (3 of

them yet to be identified) in a high elevation site at Devikulam. Valuable information on clump

development, culm production and growth parameters like culm length, culm girth, etc. are

being gathered, computed and analyzed for productivity of these valuable Bamboos. Effect of

management practices like weeding, soil working, selective cutting etc. on the producti

potential of each of these species is being closely monitored. The KFRI

have an exhaustive collection of sympodial bamboos that can be grown in a typical agro

climatic zone and to gather invaluable scientific information on bamboo gro

Bambusetam also serves as genetic resource for future crop improvement programmes and for

forest managers and farmers.

Kerala Study Tour

Bambusetum was established during 1988-95 as part of the IDRC Bamboo project at

FRC campus Veluppadam. 63 different species of bamboos are present in the Bambusetum of

this, 55 species are in the Field Research Centre, Velupadam and the remaining 8 species (3 of

them yet to be identified) in a high elevation site at Devikulam. Valuable information on clump

culm production and growth parameters like culm length, culm girth, etc. are

being gathered, computed and analyzed for productivity of these valuable Bamboos. Effect of

management practices like weeding, soil working, selective cutting etc. on the producti

potential of each of these species is being closely monitored. The KFRI-Bambusetum aims to

have an exhaustive collection of sympodial bamboos that can be grown in a typical agro

climatic zone and to gather invaluable scientific information on bamboo growth in state. The

Bambusetam also serves as genetic resource for future crop improvement programmes and for

95 as part of the IDRC Bamboo project at

species of bamboos are present in the Bambusetum of

this, 55 species are in the Field Research Centre, Velupadam and the remaining 8 species (3 of

them yet to be identified) in a high elevation site at Devikulam. Valuable information on clump

culm production and growth parameters like culm length, culm girth, etc. are

being gathered, computed and analyzed for productivity of these valuable Bamboos. Effect of

management practices like weeding, soil working, selective cutting etc. on the production

Bambusetum aims to

have an exhaustive collection of sympodial bamboos that can be grown in a typical agro-

wth in state. The

Bambusetam also serves as genetic resource for future crop improvement programmes and for

Page 18: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Cane and Palmetum

Figure 10 KFRI Palmetum

Palms are woody monocotyledons belonging to the plant family Arecaceae (Palmae). Palms are

vital component of the tropical forest ecosystem. With their graceful architecture, palms form

characteristic features of some tropical habitats. Palms are managed by the indigenous

populations for food, fodder, handicrafts, thatches and construction materials. Owing to their

aesthetic value, palms are cultivated for both i

There are as many as 2600 species of palms (within 200 genera) in the world. A to

species of palms belonging to 22 genera are found distributed across the three major

geographical regions of India viz., Peninsular India, North eastern India and Andaman and

Nicobar Islands. Although conservation and sustainable utilization of

great importance, conservation attempts have not received significant world

KFRI Peechi Campus has a palmetum with live collections of indigenous and exotic palms, which

serves as a facility for educating the public

Palmetum contains 125 species of palms under 52 genera. Of these, 70 are indigenous palms

and 55 are exotic. The exotic species include those which are commonly seen in Indian parks,

gardens and along avenues. The rare species like Bentinckia condapanna Berry, Bentinckia

nicobarica (Kurz) Becc., Calamus nagbettai Fernandez & Dey, Wallichia disticha T. Anderson,

Korthalsia laciniosa (Griff.) Mart., Korthalsia rogersii Becc. and Calamus brandisii Becc.

& Hook. f. and mangrove species like Phoenix paludosa and Nypa fruticans Wurmb are

represented in the collection.

Kerala Study Tour

KFRI Palmetum

monocotyledons belonging to the plant family Arecaceae (Palmae). Palms are

vital component of the tropical forest ecosystem. With their graceful architecture, palms form

characteristic features of some tropical habitats. Palms are managed by the indigenous

populations for food, fodder, handicrafts, thatches and construction materials. Owing to their

aesthetic value, palms are cultivated for both indoor and outdoor decoration.

There are as many as 2600 species of palms (within 200 genera) in the world. A to

species of palms belonging to 22 genera are found distributed across the three major

geographical regions of India viz., Peninsular India, North eastern India and Andaman and

Nicobar Islands. Although conservation and sustainable utilization of this resource assumes

great importance, conservation attempts have not received significant world

KFRI Peechi Campus has a palmetum with live collections of indigenous and exotic palms, which

serves as a facility for educating the public about the need for conservation of palms. The KFRI

Palmetum contains 125 species of palms under 52 genera. Of these, 70 are indigenous palms

and 55 are exotic. The exotic species include those which are commonly seen in Indian parks,

ues. The rare species like Bentinckia condapanna Berry, Bentinckia

nicobarica (Kurz) Becc., Calamus nagbettai Fernandez & Dey, Wallichia disticha T. Anderson,

Korthalsia laciniosa (Griff.) Mart., Korthalsia rogersii Becc. and Calamus brandisii Becc.

& Hook. f. and mangrove species like Phoenix paludosa and Nypa fruticans Wurmb are

monocotyledons belonging to the plant family Arecaceae (Palmae). Palms are

vital component of the tropical forest ecosystem. With their graceful architecture, palms form

characteristic features of some tropical habitats. Palms are managed by the indigenous

populations for food, fodder, handicrafts, thatches and construction materials. Owing to their

There are as many as 2600 species of palms (within 200 genera) in the world. A total of 106

species of palms belonging to 22 genera are found distributed across the three major

geographical regions of India viz., Peninsular India, North eastern India and Andaman and

this resource assumes

great importance, conservation attempts have not received significant world-wide attention.

KFRI Peechi Campus has a palmetum with live collections of indigenous and exotic palms, which

about the need for conservation of palms. The KFRI

Palmetum contains 125 species of palms under 52 genera. Of these, 70 are indigenous palms

and 55 are exotic. The exotic species include those which are commonly seen in Indian parks,

ues. The rare species like Bentinckia condapanna Berry, Bentinckia

nicobarica (Kurz) Becc., Calamus nagbettai Fernandez & Dey, Wallichia disticha T. Anderson,

Korthalsia laciniosa (Griff.) Mart., Korthalsia rogersii Becc. and Calamus brandisii Becc. Ex. Becc.

& Hook. f. and mangrove species like Phoenix paludosa and Nypa fruticans Wurmb are

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Kerala Study Tour

Herbarium

Figure 11 JRF showing herbarium file

KFRI herbarium was started in early 1980s with regular field collections of specimens. Now it

holds over 11,074 specimens and recognized internationally by the acronym ‘KFRI’ by the

International Association of Plant Taxonomists (IAPT). Apart from general

herbarium has a complete collection of medicinal plants in South India and a pan Indian

collection of palms and bamboos of India including Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The species

in the herbaria are indexed in alphabetical order with col

plant families. The families are arranged according to the system of classification of flowering

plants by Benthem and Hooker with delimitation to certain families in accordance with their

current concepts. The 11,074 speci

families. The lone Gymnosperm in the herbarium is from Gnetaceae. The predominant plant

families in the collection are Graminae

Fabaceae (115 spp.), Fabaceae

Compositae (52 spp.). The herbarium also represented with 90 species of pteridophytes.

The herbarium attracts researchers from all over the state and elsewhere. The digitization of

the Herbarium is completed and it will be soon made available on

Kerala Study Tour

herbarium file

KFRI herbarium was started in early 1980s with regular field collections of specimens. Now it

holds over 11,074 specimens and recognized internationally by the acronym ‘KFRI’ by the

International Association of Plant Taxonomists (IAPT). Apart from general collections, KFRI

herbarium has a complete collection of medicinal plants in South India and a pan Indian

collection of palms and bamboos of India including Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The species

in the herbaria are indexed in alphabetical order with collection numbers under respective

plant families. The families are arranged according to the system of classification of flowering

plants by Benthem and Hooker with delimitation to certain families in accordance with their

current concepts. The 11,074 specimens representing more than 2,200 species form 159

families. The lone Gymnosperm in the herbarium is from Gnetaceae. The predominant plant

Graminae (203 spp.), Orchidaceae (184 spp.), Arecaceae

Fabaceae (111 spp.), Euphorbiaceae (107 spp.), Rubiaceae

(52 spp.). The herbarium also represented with 90 species of pteridophytes.

The herbarium attracts researchers from all over the state and elsewhere. The digitization of

he Herbarium is completed and it will be soon made available on-line.

KFRI herbarium was started in early 1980s with regular field collections of specimens. Now it

holds over 11,074 specimens and recognized internationally by the acronym ‘KFRI’ by the

collections, KFRI-

herbarium has a complete collection of medicinal plants in South India and a pan Indian

collection of palms and bamboos of India including Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The species

lection numbers under respective

plant families. The families are arranged according to the system of classification of flowering

plants by Benthem and Hooker with delimitation to certain families in accordance with their

mens representing more than 2,200 species form 159

families. The lone Gymnosperm in the herbarium is from Gnetaceae. The predominant plant

Arecaceae (118 spp.),

Rubiaceae (80 spp.) and

(52 spp.). The herbarium also represented with 90 species of pteridophytes.

The herbarium attracts researchers from all over the state and elsewhere. The digitization of

Page 20: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Medicinal Plants

Medicinal plant garden has more than 400 medicinal herbs, shrubs, trees and climbers. The raw

materials used in the Indian Materia Medica has been assembled as a refere

the Institute

Figure 12

Xylarium

Figure 13 Xylarium

Xylarium is a collection of well-curated authenticated wood specimens. It is mainly intended to

display collection of wood specimens for scientific research, teaching, environmental education

and other programmes. The word ‘xylarium’ has been originated from Greek word ‘xylon’

meaning ‘wood’ and is used as ‘wood collection with proven and certified accuracy’. Wood

collections may seem to be primarily of interest to wood anatomists, botanists and foresters,

but they hold specimens and information applicable to many other fields such as

furniture restoration, forensics, history, ecology, palaeontology, archaeology, conservation

biology and climate change etc. As a service to the wood anatomical community, these

Kerala Study Tour

Medicinal plant garden has more than 400 medicinal herbs, shrubs, trees and climbers. The raw

materials used in the Indian Materia Medica has been assembled as a refere

12Various medicinal tree species

curated authenticated wood specimens. It is mainly intended to

display collection of wood specimens for scientific research, teaching, environmental education

and other programmes. The word ‘xylarium’ has been originated from Greek word ‘xylon’

g ‘wood’ and is used as ‘wood collection with proven and certified accuracy’. Wood

collections may seem to be primarily of interest to wood anatomists, botanists and foresters,

but they hold specimens and information applicable to many other fields such as

furniture restoration, forensics, history, ecology, palaeontology, archaeology, conservation

biology and climate change etc. As a service to the wood anatomical community, these

Medicinal plant garden has more than 400 medicinal herbs, shrubs, trees and climbers. The raw

materials used in the Indian Materia Medica has been assembled as a reference collection in

curated authenticated wood specimens. It is mainly intended to

display collection of wood specimens for scientific research, teaching, environmental education

and other programmes. The word ‘xylarium’ has been originated from Greek word ‘xylon’

g ‘wood’ and is used as ‘wood collection with proven and certified accuracy’. Wood

collections may seem to be primarily of interest to wood anatomists, botanists and foresters,

but they hold specimens and information applicable to many other fields such as antiques,

furniture restoration, forensics, history, ecology, palaeontology, archaeology, conservation

biology and climate change etc. As a service to the wood anatomical community, these

Page 21: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

collections will be of great use in wood anatomical studies, wood identification etc. Since India

is a net importer of industrial wood from abroad and most of the species are unfamiliar neither

to the user agencies nor to the common man, proper diagnostics of the timber species signifies

the importance of xylarium.

KFRI xylarium was established in the year 1979, and has a collection of 587 specimens (133

samples representing 68 genera and 114 species from India/Kerala and the rest are from 13

foreign countries). The xylarium database has detailed records such as family name of the tree

from which the wood was collected, species name, original wood specimen no., date of

collection, collector(s) name, herbarium no. of the voucher specimen, country, altitude,

latitude, longitude, habit, habitat, note on collection or accession etc. For each wood specimen,

there will be a corresponding voucher herbarium specimen deposited in the KFRI Herbarium

with the same accession number. Without this cross-reference, the wood collection is of no

value. The dimension of the KFRI xylarium sample is: 10 x 6 x 1 cm for small specimens and 16 x

10 x 2 cm for large specimens following international standard. The Xylarium of KFRI has been

indexed in Kew Royal Botanic Garden, in its Index Xylariorum- a directory of Institutional Wood

Collections from around the World. With a view to improve our collection of wood samples,

KFRI has few xylarium samples (Indian species) available for mutual exchange.

Wildlife Museum

Figure 14 Preserved specimens inside KFRI Wildlife Museum

Institute has a Wildlife museum and an Insect collection. Wildlife museum has a collection of specimens

of Mammals (67), Reptiles (113), Amphibians (80), Fishes (45) and Invertebrates (16). In addition there

are 140 wet specimens of species from Myristica swamps and 116 wet specimens from the Mangroves.

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Kerala Study Tour

Butterfly Garden

Figure 15 Some pictures of butterfly garden

Butterfly garden developed by KFRI is an important achievement in the field of nature education. Butterflies are reared in the laboratory and released into semiwhere their food plants are grown. Practically a large number of butterflies of the visitors in the background of which they receive elucidative lessons on ecology, environment, biodiversity, food web and biological balance.

KFRI has two butterfly gardens; one in its main campus at Peechi and another in the Subccampus at Nilambur. Some of the butterflies that can generally be seen in the garden include lemon butterfly (Papilio demoleus), southern birdwing (Troides minos), common rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae), light blue tiger (Tirumala limniace), dark bluseptentrionis) and common crow (Euploea core). Plants that are raised in the garden for forage by butterflies include Clerodendrum paniculatum, Crotalaria pallida, Crotalaria retusa, Cuphea hyssopifolia, Gardenia sp., Gloriosa superba, Hesp., Ixora spp., Jasminum spp., Jatropa spp., Lantana spp. Plants such as Aristolochia indica, Thottea siliquosa, Tylophora indica, Asclepias sp., Carissa carandus, Ruta graveolens, Aegle marmelos, Cassia spp., Albizzia spp., Kalanchoe spp., Musaenda luteosa, Citrus spp. and Murraya koenigii are introduced as larval host plants to sustain various butterflies in the garden.

Kerala Study Tour

Some pictures of butterfly garden

Butterfly garden developed by KFRI is an important achievement in the field of nature education. Butterflies are reared in the laboratory and released into semi-natural enclosure where their food plants are grown. Practically a large number of butterflies captivate the eyes of the visitors in the background of which they receive elucidative lessons on ecology, environment, biodiversity, food web and biological balance.

KFRI has two butterfly gardens; one in its main campus at Peechi and another in the Subccampus at Nilambur. Some of the butterflies that can generally be seen in the garden include lemon butterfly (Papilio demoleus), southern birdwing (Troides minos), common rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae), light blue tiger (Tirumala limniace), dark blue tiger (Tirumala septentrionis) and common crow (Euploea core). Plants that are raised in the garden for forage by butterflies include Clerodendrum paniculatum, Crotalaria pallida, Crotalaria retusa, Cuphea hyssopifolia, Gardenia sp., Gloriosa superba, Heliotropium keralense, Hibiscus spp., Impatiens sp., Ixora spp., Jasminum spp., Jatropa spp., Lantana spp. Plants such as Aristolochia indica, Thottea siliquosa, Tylophora indica, Asclepias sp., Carissa carandus, Ruta graveolens, Aegle

, Albizzia spp., Kalanchoe spp., Musaenda luteosa, Citrus spp. and Murraya koenigii are introduced as larval host plants to sustain various butterflies in the

Butterfly garden developed by KFRI is an important achievement in the field of nature natural enclosure

captivate the eyes of the visitors in the background of which they receive elucidative lessons on ecology,

KFRI has two butterfly gardens; one in its main campus at Peechi and another in the Subcentre campus at Nilambur. Some of the butterflies that can generally be seen in the garden include lemon butterfly (Papilio demoleus), southern birdwing (Troides minos), common rose

e tiger (Tirumala septentrionis) and common crow (Euploea core). Plants that are raised in the garden for forage by butterflies include Clerodendrum paniculatum, Crotalaria pallida, Crotalaria retusa, Cuphea

liotropium keralense, Hibiscus spp., Impatiens sp., Ixora spp., Jasminum spp., Jatropa spp., Lantana spp. Plants such as Aristolochia indica, Thottea siliquosa, Tylophora indica, Asclepias sp., Carissa carandus, Ruta graveolens, Aegle

, Albizzia spp., Kalanchoe spp., Musaenda luteosa, Citrus spp. and Murraya koenigii are introduced as larval host plants to sustain various butterflies in the

Page 23: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6.1.3 Plant Propagation

Mist chamber

Figure 16 Teak saplings inside mist chamber at

Nursery plants propagated by cuttings are grown in mist chambers. In Mist Chamber, Relative

humidity is maintained artificially at high level with the help of mist installations, which spray

water under pressure. Fog formation induces rooting and acclimati

humidity facilitates better root initiation and cooling effect prevents the cutting from drying

out. This method results in faster rooting of the cuttings, create optimum microclimate for

better root initiation and development and hig

cuttings. Temperature and humidity control in the mist chamber is affected through automated

control systems.

At KFRI mist chamber is used for research purpose as well as commercial propagation of Teak,

Bamboo and around 25 medicinal plants such as

asoka, Terminalia arjuna, Stereospermum colais, Oroxylum indicum, Clerodendrum serratum,

Salacia fruticosa etc. for which KFRI has standardised the clonal propagation procedure.

Kerala Study Tour

saplings inside mist chamber at KFRI

Nursery plants propagated by cuttings are grown in mist chambers. In Mist Chamber, Relative

humidity is maintained artificially at high level with the help of mist installations, which spray

water under pressure. Fog formation induces rooting and acclimatization. High relative

humidity facilitates better root initiation and cooling effect prevents the cutting from drying

out. This method results in faster rooting of the cuttings, create optimum microclimate for

better root initiation and development and higher success rate in propagation of hard wood

cuttings. Temperature and humidity control in the mist chamber is affected through automated

At KFRI mist chamber is used for research purpose as well as commercial propagation of Teak,

and around 25 medicinal plants such as Aegle marmelos, Gmelina arborea, Saraca

asoka, Terminalia arjuna, Stereospermum colais, Oroxylum indicum, Clerodendrum serratum,

etc. for which KFRI has standardised the clonal propagation procedure.

Nursery plants propagated by cuttings are grown in mist chambers. In Mist Chamber, Relative

humidity is maintained artificially at high level with the help of mist installations, which spray

zation. High relative

humidity facilitates better root initiation and cooling effect prevents the cutting from drying

out. This method results in faster rooting of the cuttings, create optimum microclimate for

her success rate in propagation of hard wood

cuttings. Temperature and humidity control in the mist chamber is affected through automated

At KFRI mist chamber is used for research purpose as well as commercial propagation of Teak,

Aegle marmelos, Gmelina arborea, Saraca

asoka, Terminalia arjuna, Stereospermum colais, Oroxylum indicum, Clerodendrum serratum,

etc. for which KFRI has standardised the clonal propagation procedure.

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Kerala Study Tour

Seed Centre (KFSC)

Figure 17 Seed centre at KFRI

The Kerala Forest Seed Centre (KFSC), established in 2003, is a collaborative venture of Kerala

Forest Department (KFD) and Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI). KFSC is headed by a senior

scientist of KFRI having professional training and experience in the field of Forestry/Silviculture.

A Forest Range Officer and a Forester on working arrangement is deputed to KFSC from KFD.

KFSC is administered by an advisory committee comprising of the officials from both KFD and

KFRI.

The main objective of the Centre is to collect seeds of superior trees/stands, process, grade,

store and supply to Kerala Forest Department (KFD) and other government departments, non

governmental agencies, farmers and others interested in seed of forest tree species for

propagation. Soon after collection the seeds are processed and graded through appropriate

methods depending on the nature of the fruit. Seed quality of the processed seed will be

assessed through rapid viability tests like cutting test and Tetrazolium test. The seeds are then

subjected to germination tests prescribed by the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA),

Switzerland and their viability will be assessed. The viable healthy seeds will be stored at

optimum storage condition (ambient/ controlled Temperature and Humidity) either in plastic

bins, gunny bags or plastic bags depending on the orthodox / recalcitrant nature of the seed.

Prior to long-term storage in air tight plastic bins, fumigation with carbon dioxide is carried out

in order to slow down the respiration rate of seeds and to prevent insect / pest infestation. The

seeds stored at KFSC are being subjected to routine tests at regular intervals for viability and

germination. Seed lots with a germination rate less than 20 percent are discarded.

KFSC has also an important mandate to supply graded quality teak seeds to KFD for raising high

quality planting stock for their extensive plantation programmes. Processed good quality seeds,

are also sold to entrepreneurs, farmers, research institutions and students also at nominal

rates, fixed by the Government of Kerala.

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Kerala Study Tour

In addition to supply of quality seeds of forestry species, facilities are also used to undertake

research in seed science and technology in tropical forestry species and to provide training to

forestry professionals, researchers, students and others interested in seeds. Training

programmes, covering aspects such as seed collection, processing, storage and management of

teak seed production areas are conducted for forest officials, farmers and students.

Guest House

Figure 18Front view of KFRI guest house surrounded with lush greenery

KFRI have two well maintained and full furnished Guest houses namely International Guest

House (IGH) & Guest house (GH) both are

The Guest House (GH) have 3 A/C

The International Guest House (IG

ladies) A/C Dormitory and 4 Bed non

International Guest House has: Full power back

computer and internet access, 30 seater Dining Hall and attached Kitchen, Roofed open

multipurpose lounge and TV room.

Kerala Study Tour

In addition to supply of quality seeds of forestry species, facilities are also used to undertake

cience and technology in tropical forestry species and to provide training to

forestry professionals, researchers, students and others interested in seeds. Training

programmes, covering aspects such as seed collection, processing, storage and management of

teak seed production areas are conducted for forest officials, farmers and students.

Front view of KFRI guest house surrounded with lush greenery

KFRI have two well maintained and full furnished Guest houses namely International Guest

House (IGH) & Guest house (GH) both are located at our Peechi Campus.

The Guest House (GH) have 3 A/C Double bed and 1 Non

The International Guest House (IGH) have 16 A/c Double Bed Rooms, 50 seater (24gents and 26

ladies) A/C Dormitory and 4 Bed non-A/C Dormitory (Driver’s Room). Additionally the

International Guest House has: Full power back-up, Recreation Facility, Lounge, limited

ess, 30 seater Dining Hall and attached Kitchen, Roofed open

multipurpose lounge and TV room.

In addition to supply of quality seeds of forestry species, facilities are also used to undertake

cience and technology in tropical forestry species and to provide training to

forestry professionals, researchers, students and others interested in seeds. Training

programmes, covering aspects such as seed collection, processing, storage and management of

teak seed production areas are conducted for forest officials, farmers and students.

KFRI have two well maintained and full furnished Guest houses namely International Guest

located at our Peechi Campus.

Double bed and 1 Non-A/C Room

H) have 16 A/c Double Bed Rooms, 50 seater (24gents and 26

A/C Dormitory (Driver’s Room). Additionally the

up, Recreation Facility, Lounge, limited

ess, 30 seater Dining Hall and attached Kitchen, Roofed open

Page 26: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

Figure 19 Group photo with Scientist Dr. Mohan Das at KFRI Extension and Training Centre

Peechi Dam

Peechi Dam is situated 22 km (14

as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in Thrissur. At the same time, it catered the

drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. It serves as

out to the paddy fields in and around Thrissur city. Built across the Manali River, the dam is a

vast catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres (1,300

cascading fountains offer numerous invit

bank of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1958 covering 125 square kilometres

(48 sq mi).

Figure 20 Side view of peechi dam

Kerala Study Tour

Group photo with Scientist Dr. Mohan Das at KFRI Extension and Training Centre

km (14 mi) outside Thrissur city in Kerala, India. The dam was started

as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in Thrissur. At the same time, it catered the

drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City. It serves as an irrigation dam, reaching

out to the paddy fields in and around Thrissur city. Built across the Manali River, the dam is a

vast catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres (1,300 ha) with extensive botanical gardens and

cascading fountains offer numerous inviting avenues for tourists. One can see tuskers on the

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1958 covering 125 square kilometres

Group photo with Scientist Dr. Mohan Das at KFRI Extension and Training Centre

mi) outside Thrissur city in Kerala, India. The dam was started

as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in Thrissur. At the same time, it catered the

an irrigation dam, reaching

out to the paddy fields in and around Thrissur city. Built across the Manali River, the dam is a

ha) with extensive botanical gardens and

ing avenues for tourists. One can see tuskers on the

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1958 covering 125 square kilometres

Page 27: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6.2 Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Figure 21 Entrance of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, which also includes the erstwhile 'Parambikulam Wildlife

Sanctuary', is a 391 square kilometres (151.0

district of Kerala state, South India. The wildlife sanctuary, which had an area of 285 square

kilometres (110 sq mi), was established in 1973. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was declared

as part of the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve on February 19

Fauna

Figure 22 Wild gaurs blocking passing vehicles

The sanctuary has a rich diversity of animal life including: Mammals 39 species, Amphibians 16 sp., Birds 268 sp., Reptiles 61 sp., Fish 47 sp., Insects 1049 sp. and Butterflies 124 sp.

Important mammals include: lionIndian leopards, wild boar, sambar, bonnet macaques, Nilgiri langurs, sloth bears, Nilgiri marten small Travancore flying squirrel and gaur.

Kerala Study Tour

6.2 Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Entrance of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

, which also includes the erstwhile 'Parambikulam Wildlife

Sanctuary', is a 391 square kilometres (151.0 sq mi) protected area in Chittur taluk i

district of Kerala state, South India. The wildlife sanctuary, which had an area of 285 square

mi), was established in 1973. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was declared

as part of the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve on February 19, 2010.

Wild gaurs blocking passing vehicles

The sanctuary has a rich diversity of animal life including: Mammals 39 species, Amphibians 16 sp., Birds 268 sp., Reptiles 61 sp., Fish 47 sp., Insects 1049 sp. and Butterflies 124 sp.

Important mammals include: lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri tahr, elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, wild boar, sambar, bonnet macaques, Nilgiri langurs, sloth bears, Nilgiri marten small Travancore flying squirrel and gaur.

, which also includes the erstwhile 'Parambikulam Wildlife

mi) protected area in Chittur taluk in Palakkad

district of Kerala state, South India. The wildlife sanctuary, which had an area of 285 square

mi), was established in 1973. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was declared

The sanctuary has a rich diversity of animal life including: Mammals 39 species, Amphibians 16 sp., Birds 268 sp., Reptiles 61 sp., Fish 47 sp., Insects 1049 sp. and Butterflies 124 sp.

ephants, Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, wild boar, sambar, bonnet macaques, Nilgiri langurs, sloth bears, Nilgiri

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Kerala Study Tour

47 species of fish are recorded in the Sanctuary of which seven species are listed as endangered and 17 are endemic to Western Ghats.

268 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. 134 species are listed as rare and 18 species are endemic to Western Ghats. Greybroad-billed roller and great pied hornbblack eagle, black-capped kingfisher, great Indian hornbill, and black woodpecker.

There are 124 species of butterflies recorded in the sanctuary of which 34 are rare and endemic.

Flora

Figure 23 Facts of Kannimara Teak Figure

The sanctuary has a variety of trees mainly teak, neem, sandalwood and rosewood. Even the oldest ever teak tree, Kannimara Teak exists here. It is about 450 years old and has a girth of 6.8 metres (22Mahavriksha Puraskar given by the Indian Government.

Figure 25 Group photo in Parambikulam tiger reservoir Figure

Kerala Study Tour

47 species of fish are recorded in the Sanctuary of which seven species are listed as gered and 17 are endemic to Western Ghats.

268 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. 134 species are listed as rare and 18 species are endemic to Western Ghats. Grey-headed fish-eagle Peninsular bay owl,

billed roller and great pied hornbill. Other birds include: darter, little cormorant, capped kingfisher, great Indian hornbill, and black woodpecker.

There are 124 species of butterflies recorded in the sanctuary of which 34 are rare and

Facts of Kannimara Teak Figure 24 Me and my colleagues standing

near the kannimara teak

The sanctuary has a variety of trees mainly teak, neem, sandalwood and rosewood. Even the oldest ever teak tree, Kannimara Teak exists here. It is about 450 years old and has a girth of 6.8 metres (22 ft) and a height of 49.5 metres (162Mahavriksha Puraskar given by the Indian Government.

Group photo in Parambikulam tiger reservoir Figure 26 Group photo with Range Officer

47 species of fish are recorded in the Sanctuary of which seven species are listed as

268 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. 134 species are listed as rare and eagle Peninsular bay owl,

ill. Other birds include: darter, little cormorant, capped kingfisher, great Indian hornbill, and black woodpecker.

There are 124 species of butterflies recorded in the sanctuary of which 34 are rare and

The sanctuary has a variety of trees mainly teak, neem, sandalwood and rosewood. Even the oldest ever teak tree, Kannimara Teak exists here. It is about 450 years old and

ft) and a height of 49.5 metres (162 ft). It won the

Group photo with Range Officer

Page 29: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6.3 Athirapally Falls

Figure 27 View of Athirapally water fall

Athirapalli Falls is situated in Athirappally panchayath, Chalakudy Taluk in of Thrissur district,

Kerala on the southwest coast of India. Located on the west

Vazhachal Forest Division and the Sholayar ranges, this 24

nearby Vazhachal Falls are popular tourist destinations. There is another waterfall on the way

from Athirapalli to Vazhachal Falls, in close proximity to the road and is locally called “Charpa

Falls”. Athirapalli Falls is the largest waterfall in

Figure 28 Looking down at the falls

Kerala Study Tour

View of Athirapally water fall

is situated in Athirappally panchayath, Chalakudy Taluk in of Thrissur district,

Kerala on the southwest coast of India. Located on the west-flowing Chalakudy River near the

Vazhachal Forest Division and the Sholayar ranges, this 24-metre (80 ft) waterfal

nearby Vazhachal Falls are popular tourist destinations. There is another waterfall on the way

from Athirapalli to Vazhachal Falls, in close proximity to the road and is locally called “Charpa

Falls”. Athirapalli Falls is the largest waterfall in Kerala and is nicknamed "The Niagara of India".

is situated in Athirappally panchayath, Chalakudy Taluk in of Thrissur district,

flowing Chalakudy River near the

ft) waterfall and the

nearby Vazhachal Falls are popular tourist destinations. There is another waterfall on the way

from Athirapalli to Vazhachal Falls, in close proximity to the road and is locally called “Charpa

Kerala and is nicknamed "The Niagara of India".

Page 30: Kerala Study Tour

Kerala Study Tour

6.4 Silent Valley National Park

Figure 29 Entrance gate of Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley National Park is a national park with a core zone of 236.74 square kilometres

(91 sq mi) (making it the largest national park in Kerala). It is located in the Nilgiri Hills, within

the Palakkad District of Kerala, South India. This region was explored in 1847 by the botanist

Robert Wight. This park is one of the last undisturbed tracts of South Western Ghats mountain

rain forests and tropical moist evergreen forest in India.

Silent Valley is home to the largest population of lion-tailed macaques, an endangered

species of primate. Public controversy over their habitat led to the establishment of

Silent Valley National Park.

Silent Valley is rectangular, twelve kilometres from north to south and seven from east

to west. Located between 11°03' to 11°13' N (latitude) and 76°21' to 76°35' E (longitude)

it is separated from the eastern and northern high altitude plateaus of the (Nilgiris

Mountains) by high continuous ridges including Sispara Peak (2,206 m) at the north end

of the park. The park gradually slopes southward down to the Palakkad plains and to the

west it is bounded by irregular ridges. The altitude varies from 658 m to 2328 m at

Anginda Peak, but most of the park lies within the altitude range of 880 m to 1200 m.

Soils are blackish and slightly acidic in evergreen forests where there is good

accumulation of organic matter. The underlying rock in the area is granite with schists

and gneiss, which give rise to the loamy laterite soils on slopes.

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Kerala Study Tour

Fauna and flora

The valley areas of the park are in a Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests Ecoregion. Hilly areas above 1,000 m are in the South Western Ghats montane rain forests region. Above 1,500 m, the evergreen forests bwith open grassland, both of which are of interest to ecologists as the rich biodiversity here has never been disturbed by human settlements. Several threatened species are endemic here. New plant and animal species are often discovered here.

There are at least 34 species of mammals at Silent Valley including the threatened lion

tailed macaque, Niligiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri tahr, Peshwa’s bat (

peshwa) and hairy-winged

Figure 30 Lion tailed macaque Figure

The tiger, leopard (panther), leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, common palm civet,

small Indian civet, brown palm civet, ruddy mongoose, stripe

clawless otter, sloth bear, small Travancore flying squirrel

anteater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer,

elephant and gaur also live here.

The flora of the valley include about a 1000 species of flowering plants, 108 species of

orchids, 100 ferns and fern

majority of these plants are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Figure 33 Hanging bridge across the Kuntipuzha River

Kerala Study Tour

The valley areas of the park are in a Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests Ecoregion. Hilly areas above 1,000 m are in the South Western Ghats montane rain forests region. Above 1,500 m, the evergreen forests begin to give way to stunted forests, called sholas, interspersed with open grassland, both of which are of interest to ecologists as the rich biodiversity here has never been disturbed by human settlements. Several threatened species are endemic here.

plant and animal species are often discovered here.

There are at least 34 species of mammals at Silent Valley including the threatened lion

tailed macaque, Niligiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri tahr, Peshwa’s bat (

winged bat. There are nine species of bats, rats and mice.

Lion tailed macaque Figure 31 A nilgiri wood pigeon Figure 32 Malabar giant squirrel

The tiger, leopard (panther), leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, common palm civet,

small Indian civet, brown palm civet, ruddy mongoose, stripe-necked mongoose, dhole,

clawless otter, sloth bear, small Travancore flying squirrel, Indian pangolin (scaly

anteater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer,

elephant and gaur also live here.

The flora of the valley include about a 1000 species of flowering plants, 108 species of

orchids, 100 ferns and fern allies, 200 liverworts, 75 lichens and about 200 algae. A

majority of these plants are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Hanging bridge across the Kuntipuzha River-Silent Valley National Park

The valley areas of the park are in a Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests Ecoregion. Hilly areas above 1,000 m are in the South Western Ghats montane rain forests region. Above

egin to give way to stunted forests, called sholas, interspersed with open grassland, both of which are of interest to ecologists as the rich biodiversity here has never been disturbed by human settlements. Several threatened species are endemic here.

There are at least 34 species of mammals at Silent Valley including the threatened lion-

tailed macaque, Niligiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri tahr, Peshwa’s bat (Myotis

bat. There are nine species of bats, rats and mice.

Malabar giant squirrel

The tiger, leopard (panther), leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, common palm civet,

necked mongoose, dhole,

, Indian pangolin (scaly

anteater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer,

The flora of the valley include about a 1000 species of flowering plants, 108 species of

allies, 200 liverworts, 75 lichens and about 200 algae. A

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Kerala Study Tour

6.5 Kollam Beach

Figure 34 Kollam Beach, Quilon

Kollam Beach also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is a beach at Kollam city in the Indian state of Kerala. The beach also features an park of international standard, the Mahatma Gandhi Park, which was inaugurated on 1Hussain. Kollam beach is one among the few beaches in Kerala with lifeguardoutpost.Lifeguards were stationed at the beach from 2005.

Figure 35 Mahatma Gandhi Park in Kollam Beach

Kerala Study Tour

also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is a beach at Kollam city in the Indian state of Kerala. The beach also features an park of international standard, the Mahatma Gandhi Park, which was inaugurated on 1 January 1961 by the then Vice President of India, ZHussain. Kollam beach is one among the few beaches in Kerala with lifeguardoutpost.Lifeguards were stationed at the beach from 2005.

Mahatma Gandhi Park in Kollam Beach

also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is a beach at Kollam city in the Indian state of Kerala. The beach also features an park of international standard, the Mahatma Gandhi

January 1961 by the then Vice President of India, Zakir Hussain. Kollam beach is one among the few beaches in Kerala with lifeguardoutpost.Lifeguards

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Kerala Study Tour

7 Conclusion

Forests and the products they provide are universally required for the continuation of human society as we know it. To change our society to one that does not depend on the forest (to the forest's detriment) and its associated benefits requires such an enormous paradigm shift that we generally do not even consider it worthy of further investigation. Given this situation therefore, it is imperative that we discover mechanisms to manage the forest for all the benefits it can provide, in a sustainable manner.

Few countries have all the answers to all the issues faced, thus there exists a real need for international cooperation. Loss of forest resources transcends national boundaries and affects the entire planet. Given this, the roles of various agencies become vitally important in order to minimize any potential downside and to maximise the upside. Governments, NGOs, intergovernmental panels and the like must work more closely in order to resolve the pressing issues facing the forests. In many cases a collaborative approach will provide a solution which is more acceptable to all parties, and more robust than a solution that is developed unilaterally.

Societies around the world are beginning to face up to the reality that as a species man requires forest resources - both the wood and non-wood products a sustainably managed forest can provide. As the guardians of those resources our performance has to date been abysmal. It is with a great deal of urgency that we must turn that record around and ensure that we have sustainably managed forests for the generations that are to follow. Only a long term global commitment to conservation and sustainable development can reverse the tide of uncontrolled deforestation. A sound policy framework is central to this commitment.

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Kerala Study Tour

.