Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary UPSC
The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is located in the state of Meghalaya in northeastern India. This sanctuary is known for its unique and diverse collection of pitcher plants, particularly the Nepenthes khasiana species, which is native to the region.
The Nepenthes khasiana species of pitcher plant is one of the most prominent species found in this sanctuary. It is endemic to the Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya and is known for its distinctive pitcher morphology.
Pitcher plants are carnivorous plants that are known for their modified leaves, which form a pitcher-like structure to trap and digest insects and other small prey.
Pitcher plants play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to control insect populations. They also contribute to scientific research and education about carnivorous plants.
In addition to the ecological role it plays, the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary serves as a bulwark against soil erosion and a source of water for the neighboring villages, reinforcing its position as a guardian of the region's environmental well-being.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the monsoon season.
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Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Location
The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is located in the South Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India. It is situated in the town of Baghmara, which is approximately 112 kilometers away from Tura and about 332 kilometers from Guwahati.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is the Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport), located approximately 332 kilometers away. Guwahati is a major city in Assam and has good connectivity to other parts of India.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is also in Guwahati, which is approximately 332 kilometers from Baghmara. Guwahati Railway Station is well-connected to various cities across India and serves as a transportation hub for the northeastern region.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary History
Establishment: Established on May 24, 1984, as per Gazette Notification No.FOR.79/84/5, the sanctuary was born out of a shared commitment to preserve this botanical wonder and its precious habitat. Nepenthes khasiana, the sole endemic species of the Nepenthes genus in India, found refuge here. Its presence, along with its habitat, is a testament to the ancient endemic remnants of bygone eras, revealing the mysteries of geological antiquity. The species, with its scarcity, stands as a biological marvel of paramount importance.
Name and Pitcher Plant: The sanctuary derives its name from its location and is home to the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant, which is locally known as "Me'mang-Koksi," meaning 'Ghost Basket.' The Garo people consider this plant sacred.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Area
The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary covers a total area of approximately 2.7 hectares. This relatively small but ecologically significant sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant and its unique habitat in the South Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Flora
The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, with a particular focus on the conservation of the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant. Here are some of the notable flora species that can be found in the sanctuary and the surrounding region:
Nepenthes khasiana (Pitcher Plant): The sanctuary is renowned for its namesake, the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant. This unique carnivorous plant with its distinctive pitcher-shaped traps is the centerpiece of the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
Drosera Species (Sundews): Sundews are another group of carnivorous plants that are likely to be found in the region. They have sticky, glandular tentacles to capture insects.
Schima wallichii: This evergreen tree is native to the region and belongs to the Theaceae family. It's known for its timber and the oil extracted from its seeds.
Myrica esculenta (Box Myrtle): This deciduous shrub or small tree produces edible fruit and is found in various parts of India.
Erythrina arborescens: Also known as the coral tree or flame tree, it's a striking flowering tree with bright red blossoms.
Rhus javanica (Java Sumac): This small to medium-sized tree is known for its fruit, which is used in traditional medicine.
Rhododendron arboretum (Indian Rhododendron): This species of rhododendron is native to the eastern Himalayas and is known for its attractive flowers.
Quercus Species (Oak Trees): Various species of oak trees may be found in the sanctuary. Oaks are important components of forest ecosystems.
Castanopsis indica (Indian Chinkapin): A tree native to India, it is part of the Fagaceae family and produces edible nuts.
C. Tribuloides: This species is part of the coffee family (Rubiaceae) and may be found in the sanctuary's flora.
Dysoxylum Species: Dysoxylum is a genus of trees belonging to the mahogany family (Meliaceae).
Elaeocarpus Species: Elaeocarpus trees are known for their beautiful, often fragrant, flowers and are native to the region.
Engelhardtia spicata (Indian Olive): This is a species of flowering plant in the walnut family (Juglandaceae).
Syzygium Species: Syzygiums are often referred to as "jamuns" in India and produce edible fruits.
Tetrameles nudiflora: A species of tree found in the region.
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Fauna (Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary Animals)
While the primary focus of the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary in Meghalaya, India, is the conservation of the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant, it is also home to a variety of fauna due to its location within the South Garo Hills District and the broader Baghmara-Balpakram region.
Here are some of the notable fauna species that can be found in the sanctuary and the surrounding area:
Mammals:
- Asian Elephants
Birds:
- Grey-headed Fish Eagle
- King Vulture
- Longbilled Vulture
- White-backed Vulture
- White-legged Falconet
- White-cheeked Hill Partridge
- Tawny Fish Owl
- Blyth’s Kingfisher
- Spangled Drongo
Reptiles:
- Snakes
- Lizards
Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which state Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is located?
A. The Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary is located in the state of Meghalaya, which is in northeastern India. Specifically, it is situated in the South Garo Hills District of Meghalaya.
Q. What is Baghmara Forest Reserve famous for?
A. Baghmara Forest Reserve is primarily famous for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Located in the South Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India, this forest reserve is renowned for the following:
(i) Flora and Fauna: Baghmara Forest Reserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The forest is part of the Meghalaya subtropical forest region and hosts a variety of tree species, including valuable timber trees. It is also home to numerous wildlife species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers.
(ii) Wildlife Sanctuary: Within the Baghmara Forest Reserve, there is the Baghmara Pitcher Plant Sanctuary, which is famous for the conservation of the Nepenthes khasiana pitcher plant, a rare and unique carnivorous plant species. This sanctuary also provides habitat for other native flora and fauna.
(iii) Cultural Significance: The region surrounding Baghmara has a significant indigenous tribal population, including the Garo people. Visitors to the forest reserve can often learn about the rich cultural traditions and practices of these tribal communities, adding to the area's cultural significance.
(iv) Biodiversity Conservation: Baghmara Forest Reserve plays a crucial role in the conservation of the region's biodiversity. It helps protect various plant and animal species, contributing to the ecological health of the area.
(v) Natural Heritage: The forest reserve is part of India's natural heritage and contributes to the country's efforts to conserve its unique ecosystems and wildlife.
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