Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve UPSC

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its unique high-altitude cold desert ecosystem, characterized by barren landscapes, rugged mountains, and scarce vegetation.

The biosphere reserve encompasses several protected areas, including the Pin Valley National Park, the Chandratal and Sarchu Wildlife Sanctuaries. 

The region is home to various rare and endangered species, such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan ibex, and Tibetan gazelle.

The designation of the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve aims to promote the conservation of this fragile ecosystem, support sustainable development practices, and safeguard the traditional cultures and livelihoods of the local communities living in the area.

Table of Contents Location History Area River Flora Fauna Mammals Birds Reptile UPSC Questions

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Location

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve located in the Western Himalayas, within the state of Himachal Pradesh in North India. It is situated in the Spiti Valley, a remote and rugged region known for its high-altitude cold desert landscapes. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is the Kullu-Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport. It is located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) away from the reserve. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Spiti Valley.

Nearest Railway Station:

When it comes to railway stations, the closest major railway station is the Shimla Railway Station.

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve History

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, has a rich history tied to its ecological and cultural significance. Here's an overview of its history:

1. Ecological History: The Spiti Valley and the surrounding cold desert region have evolved over millions of years. The area was once covered by the Tethys Sea, and as the sea receded, it left behind sedimentary rocks, creating the unique geological features found in the region today. The extreme climatic conditions, with low precipitation and cold temperatures, have shaped the cold desert ecosystem and its biodiversity.

2. Cultural History: The Spiti Valley has a history of human habitation dating back thousands of years. It has been inhabited by several indigenous communities, including the Tibetan-speaking people. The region has been an important part of the ancient trade routes connecting India with Tibet and Central Asia. Over time, Buddhism has become a prominent religion in the area, and numerous monasteries and cultural sites dot the landscape.

3. Recognition as a Biosphere Reserve: The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve was established to protect and conserve the unique ecological and cultural heritage of the region. It was designated as a biosphere reserve by the Indian government in 2009. The aim of the biosphere reserve is to promote sustainable development practices, conservation of biodiversity, and the preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural practices.

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Area

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve covers an approximate area of 7,770 square kilometers (3,000 square miles) in Himachal Pradesh, India. This vast expanse of land encompasses diverse landscapes, including high-altitude cold deserts, rugged mountains, and deep river valleys. 

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve includes various protected areas within its boundaries, such as the Pin Valley National Park, Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary, Sarchu Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary.

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve River

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is traversed by several rivers that play a crucial role in shaping the landscape and supporting the local ecosystems. One of the prominent rivers in the region is the Spiti River.

The Spiti River, also known as the "Middle River" in the local language, flows through the heart of the Spiti Valley. It originates from the Kunzum Range of the Western Himalayas and passes through rugged mountainous terrain before eventually joining the Sutlej River in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The Spiti River is fed by glacial meltwater and has relatively low water flow, especially in the winter months.

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Flora

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, exhibits a unique and diverse flora despite its harsh high-altitude cold desert environment. The flora of the biosphere reserve has adapted to the extreme climatic conditions, including low precipitation, cold temperatures, and rocky terrain. 

Here are some key features of the flora found in the region:

(1) Alpine Grasses and Herbs:

The biosphere reserve is home to various alpine grasses and herbs that have adapted to the cold desert ecosystem. Species such as Kobresia, Poa, and Carex are commonly found. These plants have adapted to survive in the rocky and arid conditions, with low-growing habits and specialized root systems to access water and nutrients.

(2) Wildflowers:

The region boasts a vibrant display of wildflowers during the short summer season. Species like Primula, Saxifraga, Potentilla, and Gentiana can be found dotting the landscape, adding bursts of color to the otherwise barren terrain.

(3) Dryland Shrubs:

Several hardy shrubs are found in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve. Species like Caragana, Ephedra, and Rosa can be found clinging to the rocky slopes and providing crucial habitat and food sources for wildlife.

(4) Cold Desert Endemics:

The biosphere reserve is known for harboring several endemic plant species, meaning they are found exclusively in this specific region. These plants have evolved to survive in the extreme conditions and have unique adaptations. Examples include the Spiti Poppy (Meconopsis spitiensis) and the Spiti Juniper (Juniperus pseudosabina).

(5) Riparian Vegetation:

Along the banks of rivers and streams, some vegetation thrives with access to water. Willows (Salix spp.), Alpine Birch (Betula utilis), and other riparian species can be found in these areas, creating small pockets of greenery.

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Fauna (Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Animals)

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, is home to a diverse range of fauna, including several rare and endangered species. Despite the harsh conditions of the high-altitude cold desert environment, the region supports a surprising variety of wildlife. 

Here are some notable examples of fauna found in the biosphere reserve:

Mammals:

• Snow Leopard
• Himalayan Ibex
• Tibetan Wolf
• Himalayan Brown Bear
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Tibetan Gazelle
• Himalayan Musk Deer
• Red Fox
• Eurasian Lynx
• Himalayan Marmot
• Woolly Hare

Birds:

• Golden Eagle
• Himalayan Snowcock
• Lammergeier
• Himalayan Griffon Vulture
• Black-necked Crane
• Tibetan Sandgrouse
• Himalayan Snow Partridge
• Bearded Vulture
• Common Rosefinch
• Wallcreeper

Reptiles:

• Ladakh Agama
• Spiti Agama
• Tibetan Sand Gecko
• Common Gartersnake
• Tibetan Toad-headed Agama
• Ladakh Ratsnake

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve UPSC Questions

Q. Where is cold desert Biosphere Reserve is located?/Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in which state?

A. The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Western Himalayas, in the northern part of Himachal Pradesh. 

Q. What does the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve consist of?/Which national parks are under cold desert Biosphere Reserve?

A. Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve consist of

• Chandra Taal Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary
• Pin Valley National Park
• Sarchu Wildlife Sanctuary

Q. Which endangered species live in cold desert biosphere reserve?

A. The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, is home to several endangered species that are protected and conserved within its boundaries. Here are some of the endangered species found in the biosphere reserve:

(1) Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia): The elusive snow leopard is a critically endangered species and one of the iconic inhabitants of the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve. The region serves as an important habitat for these majestic big cats, which are adapted to survive in high-altitude, mountainous environments.

(2) Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos isabellinus): The Himalayan brown bear is a subspecies of the brown bear that is considered vulnerable and endangered. It inhabits the higher reaches of the biosphere reserve and is rarely encountered due to its elusive nature and limited population.

(3) Tibetan Gazelle (Procapra picticaudata): Also known as the Bharal or Blue Sheep, the Tibetan gazelle is a vulnerable species that inhabits the open grasslands and slopes of the region. It is known for its agility and its ability to navigate steep terrains.

(4) Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus chrysogaster): The Himalayan musk deer is a small deer species that is classified as vulnerable. It is sought after for its musk gland, leading to illegal hunting and poaching. The biosphere reserve provides protection and a suitable habitat for this endangered species.

(5) Himalayan Snowcock (Tetraogallus himalayensis): The Himalayan snowcock is a bird species that is classified as vulnerable. It is known for its striking appearance and inhabits the rocky slopes and grassy areas of the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve.