Manas Tiger Reserve
Prelims:
Environment & Ecology
Mains:
GS Paper III-Environment
Current relevance:
A recent assessment has revealed that 14 invasive plant species have contributed significantly to the loss of over 43% of grassland cover in Manas Tiger Reserve, Assam.
Highlights:
The grassland cover in Manas Tiger Reserve declined from 53.61% in 1990 to 30.24% in 2019, representing a 43.59% relative loss over three decades.
The shrinking grasslands threaten several grassland-dependent species, including: Indian Rhinoceros, Pygmy Hog, Hispid Hare, Tiger and other associated wildlife.
Invasive Alien Species:
Non-native organisms introduced outside their natural range that spread rapidly and negatively affect native biodiversity, ecosystems, and ecological balance.
About Manas Tiger Reserve:
Located in Assam, Manas Tiger Reserve is one of India's first Tiger Reserves, established under Project Tiger in 1973.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Inscribed in 1985 for its outstanding biodiversity.
It was declared as National Park in 1990, strengthening its protection as one of India's most important biodiversity conservation areas.
Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve under India's Biosphere Reserve Programme.
Designated as an Elephant Reserve, providing protected habitat for the conservation of the Asian Elephant.