| Theme: 1. Ecosystem Conservation | Paper 1 | Paper 2 |
Ecological Scenario of Kodachadri, Karnataka , India |
| 1. Abstract |
The Kodachandri is one of the highest mountains peaks of Shimoga district. The Study covers 15 Km radius from the temple complex which is located almost at the top of the mountain. The area harbour different types of vegetation which is classified into wet evergreen forest, semi evergreen forest, shoal forest and the grass lands. The shola forests and the grasslands which are situated at the top of the mountain are least effected and the wet evergreen and the semi evergreen forest which are found at the foot hills of the mountain have been damaged by human interferences. The flora has been grouped into medicinal plants, timber yielding plants, gum and resin yielding plants and bee flora. The fauna includes lion tailed macaque which is ( Macaca silenus ), an endangered primate. The impact of construction of roads, buildings and temple complexes, introduction of exotic species, encroachment of vegetation and tourism have been discussed. The conservation methods to be taken as been briefed.
Key words : Bee flora, conservation, endangered, gum and resins, medicinal plants, vegetation, tourism.
2. Introduction |
Rising above the general level of Western ghats and forming the source of few rivers and many tributaries, the Kodachadri hill is one of the several high altitude hills of the Sahyadrian riange. Clothed with a mantle of evergreen forest, the hill occupies the pride of a place among the hill ranges of the Western ghats in Karnataka. From its commanding height, Kodachadri overlooks the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Shimoga and the Arabean Sea which is barely about 20 Km. away.
The distinctive ecological characters of the place rests on such attributes as a significant height (1343 mts) a heavy rainfall, a thick forest cover and a red or reddish brown loamy soil. This place is a tourist paradise with its salubrious climate and scenic on its function as a treckers spot and pilgrimage center, and attracts tourists from Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, Kodachadri is situated at a distance of about 125 km. from Shimoga and about 140 km from mangalore.
The area along with its surrounding region is named after a medicinal plant “Kutacha” (Holarrhena antidysenterica) for which the area is well known.
The present study entitled “Ecological Scenario of Kodachadri” is taken to know the present status of Kodachandri and its surrounding areas, the different types of vegetation, their characteristic features and their importance, plant resources of Kodachandri, Fauna of Kodachandri and the impact of developmental activities on Kodachandri and its surroundings.
3. Study Area and Methodology |
Location :
Kodachandri is in 14”8' north latitude and 75”8' east longitude, much of it lying over 3000 feet and covered by forests and surrounded by agricultural lands from almost all sides. The boundary between Shimoga and Dakshina Kannada district passes through Kodachandri.
Description of the Area :
Kodachadri is a hamlet of Kattinahole village (Taluk: Hosanagara) which is situated at a distance of about forty six km west of Hosanagara town and about hundred fifteen km west of Shimoga City. Kodachandri which is a conspicuous land mark, forms the boundary between the Kundapur Taluk of Dakshina Kannada district and Hosanagara taluk of Shimoga district. The height of the peak is 1343 m above the mean sea level, and more than six hundred ten meter above the level of the villagtes below. The mountain is clothed with splendid evergreen forests. The top of the peak commands a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and Dakshina Kannada district. The first portion of the hill is very steep and diffiult to ascent. Above this is a temple of Huli Deva whose image is made of stone and it has 32 arms. The top of the hill is a narrow ridge and is in some places only about 3.66 m with precipice on either side.
On the west, the hill descends almost perpendicularly for about 1,220 mtr. And Dakshina Kannada forests spread out below. The sea appears quite close, and on clear days the ships can be seen with the naked eye. The bays and the Kundap[ ur town lie opposite. There is a thick forest in the foothill region called “Ambavana”. It is said that many rare medicinal herbs are available here. There are two shrines below the peak dedicated to Kala Bhairava and Parvatedeeshwara, in between there is a tank. The place has a Government Bungalow.
At the summit of the Kodachandri mountain meet the two boundaries of Shimoga and Dakshina Kannada district. There are two peaks in Kodachandri (1) Venkatayyanagiri and (2) Sarvajna Peetha. Sarvajna Peeta. At the top of the hill, near to Vigneshwara and Parvatadeeshwara temple, there is one small pond.
Ecology, developmental activities floral and faunal diversity and impact assessment were made personnel visits and observations. The detail methodology is given by Srirama Bhat (1994-95).
The Honey bee verities which are found in around Kodachandri and the plants which provide nectar and pollen grains were studied by Syed Tabraz Basha, (1996). The plants which provide timbers and the distribution were studied by Sharanappa (1996). The Gum and Resin Yielding Plants of Kodachandri were studied by Ganapathi (1996)
4. Observations |
Observation are described below :
Vegetation:
Variation in the Vegetation types can be clearly observed in the Kodachadri region. The four main types of vegetation that can be observed in this region are: semi evergreen forests, wet evergreen forests, Shola forests and Grass lands.
Semi evergreen forests:
These are observed in the foot hills of Kodachadri hills. Generally these types of forests observed in those areas, where rainfall is above 200 cm per year. Here the deciduous species are intermixed with evergreen species. Hence the name semi evergreen. Some common trees are Albizzia, Acacia, Vateria, Shorea, Terminalia, Machilus etc.,
Wet evergreen forests:
These are observed in the foot hills and in the proper hill region. These forests are generally observed in those regions where rainfall exceeds 250 cm per year. Tropical wet evergreen forests are climatic climax forests with dense growth of trees which are more than forty five mtr. high, vegetation is very rich and diversified. The shrubs, lianas, climbers and epiphytes are abundant. The grasses and herbs are very rare because the dense leaf canopy does not allow enough light penetration to the ground level. Dipterocarpus is common in these areas. In Kodachadri region stratification is not so clear. Climbers and woody lianas are present and are conspicuous. Bamboos are present. Plams, canes and other climbers are forming tangled masses in the undergrowth. Cane breaks replace high forests along streams. The trees have smooth bark and plank buttresses. Leaves are fleshy, glossy, thick, stout with thick leaf sheath and wrinkles to overcome, the mechanical force of rain. Leaves are showing characteristic pink and white colour when they are young. Trees are closely arranged to check the collision. Epiphytes are abundant. Some of the important flora of the region include Vateria, Hopea, Shorea, Cinnamomum, Mimosops, Machilus, Calophyllum, phoenix, and Orchids. In some portions of the forest, extensive growth of palms are observed.
Shola forests:
These are observed in Kodachadri hill and its adjoining hill ranges, where the unique ecological conditions for the growth of shoals prevails. There shoals and grasslands are in a state of dynamic equilibrium. This is a case of two climax vegetation type that co-exist in a delicate equilibrium. The term shoal is derived from similar sounding Tamil name for these forests. Classically they are defined as stunted montane forests. Stuntedness is characteristic of shoal. The height of the canopy tree rarely exceeds 15-20 metres. The shoals occur at folds of the converging slopes, in sheltered sites such as ridges, hallows and depressions, where moisture is higher. Their occurrence is shaped by the presence of adequate moisture and protection from winds. Sholas are basically rainforest. The shoals have 2-3 layers of woody strata rich in epiphytes, mosses, orchids and ferns. Though not well defined, there is a second starum with trees of 7-12 m height and a shrubby stratum with the dense and profusely branched plants. Leaves are generally small and coriaceous. Ecologists are of the opinion that shoals are slow growing and it may take tens of thousands of years for a shoal to assume its best complete shape. The timber value of shoal trees are poor (Frontline, 1994).
Sholas are ecologically rich and in fact are one whole complex ecosystem. Damage to one part effects the other portions. The canopy is dense, with direct sunlight never penetration inside. The sum total of biomass inside a shoal is one of the best organised, from the point of optimal utilization of energy, soil nutrients, moisture, symbiosis and even microclimatic manipulations and gaseous exchanges. One other strange feature is that forests never occurs inside the shoals, though these are in some of the most frost prone areas like ridges and ravines. This is because of their specialised microlimatic and hygromorphic features.
The miracle of shoals for which man has to be grateful is their water conservation properties and their natural function of giving rise to springs which are the basis for streams and rivers. It is from the hydrological point of view that shoals came to assume a unique place. In fact all the rhetoric on the need to protect shoals can be cut down to one “Sholas means Water”. When precise definitions of shoals become difficult they say shoals as a rule must be surrounded by naturally occurring grasslands. In Kodachadri area also shoal forests are surrounded by grasslands.
The climatic conditions essential for the establishment and survival of the Shola forests are rainfall – 1000-1500 mm per year, average dry season of maximum one month and Mean temperature of the coldest month may reach 10 0 C. The climatic condition of Kodachadri are more or less in the above mentioned range.
Grass lands:
Grasslands are dispersed here and there. These are found on flat plains. Top areas of Venkatayyanagiri are covered with grasslands. Kodachadri hill and an adjoining hill is connected by a ridge, which is also covered by grasses.
Floral landscape of Kodachadri:
As already mentioned, we come across with semi evergreen and wet evergreen forests in Kodachaeri along with Shola forests and grasslands. As in all other ever green forests here also the floral diversity and density are very high. The floral diversity of Kodachadri is attributed to its height, has the effect of not only lowering the temperature, but also indirectly reducing the amount of evapotranspiration. Heavy or very heavy rainfall ensures greater availability of moisture for a longer duration as a result of moisture storage in the soil.
In the given limited time, it was impossible to study the entire flora of the region. Therefore only some important trees are identified, classified and listed (Table No. 1 to 5). This includes economically important trees also. As in other evergreen forests here also Dipterocarpaceae members are more in number.
Fauna of Kodachadri:
Kodachadri forest is a sweet home for diversified species of animals, which includes even some endangered species. This region includes hilly terrains, valleys and level areas. Hilly terrains and valleys provides full protection for these animals. At present the poaching activities are very negligible. As far as forest department is concerned they listed only some important animals. The detailed survey reports are not available. Local people witnessed some more animals which are left in the department list. The list of some of these animals is given (Table 6).
GSI Survey:
Several decades ago the Geological Survey of India, conducted a survey, to identify the mineral resources of Kodachadri area. They identified some Iron ore in this region, but the percentage of iron in this ore is very less. Therefore they dropped the idea of mining.
Developmental activities
International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
Activity:
ISKCON is constructing a temple complex at the foot hills of Kodachadri, near Karekatte, (4 km from Nagara Kollor state highway) for the purpose they are utilising around hundred acres of land in the middle of the thick forest.
• Building constructions:
Half way between the hill, some building construction activities are going on. Karnataka Government is building one Traveller's bungalow in Kodachadri. Two families residing in Kodacahdri hill, are also involved in some construction activities like extension of house and temple.
• Chakra diversion dam:
It's 8 km away from Kodachadri, on the way to Kodachadri from Nitoor. Here a small dam is constructed across the channel, which carries water from Chakra reservoir to Linganamakki reservoir. Channel passes through underground in some places.
Plantations:
Mysore Paper Mill has undertaken plantations in some places. They are surveying and planning for plantation in some other places also. The main plant, planted here is Acacia. Physico – Chemical characters of the water of temple pond of Kodachadri:
The water sample of the temple tank was collected on 27 th February 1995 and analysed. The results are given in table No. 6.
5. Discussions |
Vegetation: Semi evergreen forests:
In the Semi evergreen forests of foothills encroachment activity has been observed, local people are cleaning, the forests and growing arecanut especially in and around natural water bodies. Thus reducing and destroying the natural habitat and corridors for our wild animals.
Wet evergreen forest:
These are mainly effected by the construction activities and road widening and repairing. ISKCON complex is coming up in the middle of these forests. Even though they are not destroyed forests, as this temple complex is coming up in the middle of these evergreen forests, it will interfere with the movement of animals and their activity, seed dispersal, pollination ect., Thus these activities will imbalance the intricate balance of the ecosystem. Along with these complex there is one road connection the complex with main road, which also passes through this forest.
Grasslands:
In grasslands, MPM (Mysore Paper Mills) is undertaking the plantation work, that is also of monoculture type. Grasslands are considered as one of the important ecological components. These are acting as both controllers and promoters of forest fires. Recent studies are revealing that forest fires are important factors in regulating the ecosystem balance. If these grasslands are converted into plantations, the ecosystem balance will be altered, which may result in ecological alterations.
Grasslands are of immense importance to shoals. They are intricately interwoven. Thus conversion of grasslands into plantation will effect this climax vegetation type of shoal, that co-exist in a delicate equilibrium.
These grassland are supporting large number of herbivores like buffaloes sambhars etc., If these grasslands are altered, herbivores will be severely effected, which caused imbalance in food chain.
Sholas:
As far as shoal is considered, no destruction has been taken place, till date. So this can be considered as one of the best preserved shoals of our country. In other places like Nilgiri hills of Tamilnadu, shoals have been destroyed and tea plants have been grown and still they are continuing the same practice. In Kodachadri no such practices have been observed. Thus they are well preserved.
Plant Wealth:
In Kodachadri area evergreen forests are observed. Evergreen forests are not so valuable as deciduous forests, economically. Some of the economically important species are gulmavu, mavu, hebbalsu, halasu, kai doopa, ramapatre, bamboo, holegara etc., During the year 1960-67, some Bamboo were removed by the forest department.
Kodachadri hill is well known for its medicinal plants. Ayurveda pandiths from various parts of the country are visiting t6his area, several times in a year, for the collection of these medicinal plants.
FAUNA:
Kodachadri forests are rich in their faunal diversity. As this area is known for their geographical variation like level areas to mountains areas with ridges and furrows, valleys open spaces etc., various types of animals are living here Different types of vegetation like evergreen forests, shoals and grasslands are also influencing diversity of fauna. Some endangered and threatened animals like lion tailed macaque, tiger, indian giant squirrel, civet cat, bison, sloth bear, king cobra, python etc., are observed. The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) reported two troupes of lion tailed macaque, an endangered primate, from this forest. They also reported that, macaques are disturbed by the ISKCON activities, as macaques are inhabiting this area.
These forests are well known for their faunal diversity and richness since time immemorial. In “sthala puranas” of Kolloor this is mentioned. (Rama Rao K.S.)
Economical importance of plants of Kodachadri:
To evaluate the economical importance of forests of Kodachadri an attempt has been made to identify and list the medicinally important plants, Gum and Resin Yielding plants and Timber yielding plants. The list of which is presented in Table 1 to 4 respectively.
These above mentioned factors are just a foundation stone for the further economical study of the area. As far as medicinal importance is concerned only traditional practitioners (Ayurveda Pandits) are collecting medicinal plants. Therefore it cannot be considered as an economical exploitation.
Regarding timber yielding plants, the listed species of this area are common to the entire evergreen belt of Western Ghats . They are in economically expoitable proportions. Forest department also identified, listed and counted some important economically exploitable trees. But because jof transportation problems and unsuitable surface features, exploitation is difficult.
Gum and resin yielding plants are also present here. Extraction of gum and resin is observed in such places, where transportation is feasible, and not in thick forest areas. This can be considered as an important economical resource, if proper extraction practices are followed.
Thus by establishing proper extraction, exploitation practices and following proper management practices forest department can gain some income from these forests. We are stressing that proper management practices should be followed. Otherwise it will lead to destruction of well preserved thick evergreen forests.
Development activities:
ISKCON Activities:
(ISKCON International Society for Krishna Consciouseness)
(Popularly known as Chaitanya Pantha or Harekrishna Harerama Pantha)
In the foothills of Kodachadri (On the way to Kodachadri from Karekatte) the ISKCON devotees are constructing a temple complex, surrounded by residential cottages and guest house, for the purpose, they purchased around hundred acres of land amidst the thick forest of Kodachadri . They are introducing there a self sustained village. According to their plan they will above hundred families to live there, and for each family they will allot half an acre of land. They will have to grow food themselves in these allotted field, and they should not use any modern fertilizers, pesticides etc., They should depend only on natural manures. They will also allot cattles to each family. They don't use modern cooking media such as heaters, LPG etc., They will only use fire woods. They are of the opinion that this food is tastier and healthier. They diverted one natural stream from Kodachadri to their colony and using that water for their various activities. Previously there was a road from Karekatte to foothills of Kodachadri, which was very narrow and in very bad condition, now the ISKCON people are repairing and also thinking of metalling this road. This road passes through thick forests.
The BNHS and press persons are of opinion of that they are collecting construction materials from these thick forest and disturbing the wildlife there. Vehicular movement is quite common there now, daily nearly fifteen to twenty vehicles (both light and heavy) are passing through this road, along with hundreds of people and thus disturbing the natural ecosystem. However ISKCON People are arguing that they are not disturbing the nature. They don't fell down even a single tree. They are also against that. They are constructing their structures without disturbing the nature. They purchased the land from farmers and not from forest department and also that is agricultural land and not forest land.
Whatever may be the arguments and counter arguments it is sure that the human dwelling and activities amidst the thick forest will definitely effect the ecological balance of the area.
Karnataka Government's Tourism development project: The Karnataka state government pointed out that the Kodachadri hill is having the full potential to develop into a tourist spot. Therefore in 1991 the then Chief Minister Sri. S. Bangarappa visited the area, during his visit to this region of the state and sanctioned 1 crore Rupees for the development of this area. Under this programmes following plans are proposed and they are in progress.
• 14 km of tar road upto Kodachadri from Sampekatte.
• Construction of the Travellers bungalow at the top of the hill.
• Telephone connection to bungalow.
• Electricity supply to bungalow.
• Construction of path ways to a) Sarvagna Peetha b) Venkatayyanagiri.
• Construction of platform to view the sunrise and sunset.
This connecting road passes through the thick evergreen forests and they destroyed large area of the forest for the construction purpose and once again they will have to destroy vast areas of forest for the construction of the ways to two peaks. Experts from their experience in some other hilly terrains are of opinion that, even after the construction of roads, landslides will be quite common and this is the major problem for forest ecosystem.
For the construction of Travellers bungalow also they cleared some land.
Prior to minister's visit, the concerned department prepared a helipad, halfway between the Kodachadri, Helipad is on a clear land. There isn't any forest, so to say it is a grassland at the top of the ill. So there wasn't any destruction of forest, and also this helipad was used only once. This helipad is crude one and there isn't any permanent structures.
When all these above mentioned projects are completed, the tourist pressure will be increased, vehicular movement will also be enhanced. Now itself, there are some jeep facilities from Kollur to Kodachadri. These are carrying people from early morning till late night to Kodachadri. Thus all these activities will drastically effect the very fragile forest ecosystem of the region.
Extension of residential areas:
The two residential families of the region are also involved in their own construction activities. Already they occupied nearly 2-3 acres of land and cleared forests there. One family is now involved in the renovation of its temple complex as well as their residence. The second family is also clearing nearly half an acre of thick forest, for commercial and residential purposes. They are completely dependent on the forests for their, as well as tourist's, needs of firewood. Thus they are destroying the forests in their surrounding areas, where Souparnika (Kolloor) river originates.
In the foot hills, forest encroachment and shifting cultivation are quite common.
Forest encroachment and deforestation:
Forest encroachment and deforestation are two common phenomena everywhere in the world, wherever there is forest. In proper Kodachadri hills the deforestation is very less and so also the encroachment, compared to the total area. But these are observed in surrounding areas of Kodachadri. When we are travelling from Sampekatte to Kodachadri the road passes through thick forests. But here encroachment and deforestation had been taken place, by local people, several years back itself. In some places, entire forest cover has been removed and plantation of areca nut has been taken place, so also paddy cultivation. In this route we came across with two small villages Kattinahole and Harivekanjad, where vast areas of forests were cleared and converted into agricultural lands. Here the people are dependent entirely on these agricultural lands and they are dependent on the remaining forests for their fuel woods.
All these above mentioned activities ae limited to foothills only. In the proiper Kodachadrihill there isn't any deforestation or encroachment except that observed near the travellers bungalow and temples.
Mining Activity:
As mentioned in observation chapter, GSI identified iron ore in this region. Even though percentage is very less here they will be forced to undertake mining operation, when all other mines are exhausted. If once mining operations are started, then it will lead to complete destruction of the area, as the area is very small compared to other mining areas of our state. There fore prior to undertaking any such operation, a detailed study of the area should be under taken.
Chakra Dams:
Generally during the study of lKodachadri two Dams, Chakra Dam and Chakra diversion Dam are considered. Chakra river originates in Kodachadri and flows towards eastern side of Kodachadri after flowing through several hills and valleys. A small dam is contructed across chakra river in a place eight km away from Nagara. This reservoir submerged some four cubic feet of forest in its surrounding area. But this area is several km, away from proper kodachadri and this reservoir is separated from kodachadri by several small mountains.
Chakra diversion Dam is a small controlling gate, across the channel, which carriess water from charka reservoir to linganamakki reservoir. It also serves as a storage place for water which is flowing into it during rainy season, from its surrounding areas. This is stored there till water level decreases in linganamakki reservoir. Whenever the water level decreases in Linganamakki, charka water is let into Linganamkki. This channel construction displaced some families, some forests are destructed during channel construction. But these are very meagre. Channel also passes through tunnels in some places. The secondary effects of which are not visible.
Plantations :
As already mentioned, mysore paper mill (MPM) Bhadravathi is planted Acacia plants in foot hills of Kodachadri, (at present fifty hectares) midway between Karekatte and proper foot hill of kodachadri. (nearer to ISKCON complex). They surveyed the grasslands between the shoals and the level areas in kodachadri hills and its surrounding areas to extend plantations. Two main factors to be considered here are the monoculturing and introduction of exotic species in the thick, fragile evergreen forests and in between shoals.
Introduction of exotic species is major threat to our natural vegetaions and it has been considered as one of major reasons for the extinction and threat to our wild flora and fauna, by ecologists. They may invade the forest, and may compete with natural vegetation and evade them out. They may drastically effect the ecological balance, especially in shoal areas, as shoals and grasslands are intimately interlinked. If grasslands are replaced by plantations, the herbivores will have to face the problem of fodder as they are dependent solely on these grassland. Then they will either enter in to crop fields in foot hills or they may starved to death. Decrease in herbivore number drastically effects carnivore population. Thus the entire food chain will be effected. Monoculturing practice effect the ecosystem in various ways. It will absorb water from the same level, thus depleting water table, absorb same nutrients, resulting in the nutrient depletion.
Impact of Tourists :
As already mentioned Kodachadri is an important pick nick spot and pilgrimage center of the area. The people visiting this place for two purposes-to enjoy the beauty of nature, and to serve the god. Let us first consider the pilgrims, pilgrims from the surrounding villages, districts and even from neighbouring states are visiting this plac. Malayalees stands first in this list, followed by Thmilians. Those who can afford the jeeps, can hire the jeep at Kolloor. As far as impact on ecosystem is considered, they are less dangerous, as they will return within half an hour or so, after having darshana of gods. Those who can't or won't hire the vehicle for various reasons, (economical or ethical) are very dangerous, because, it is very difficult to return from Kodachadri on the same day, Therefore they will have to stay there. Here starts the problem. To serve them, the concerned ‘poojaries' have to burn wood, (to cook food and to overcome the low temperature) which comes from well preserved evergreen forests, thus results in deforestation. Second group of people are very very dangerous compared to first group, from ecological point of view. In addition to the above mentioned wood consumption (that is for cooking etc), they will also purposefully destruct forests for their camp fires at night. They will also play recorders in high volume, which again disturbs the activities of wild animals. The one major problem is that of bottles and plastic bags and other non biodegradable materials. Scars of camp fires and burnt wood and the above mentioned wastes are very common, in the surrounding areas of temples and government bungalow.
According to some rough estimate nearly 50-75 people are visiting Kodachadri daily, during seasons. This number rises to 200-400 during weekends. The so called nature lovers and treckers are generally avoiding rainy seasons. Pilgrims are visiting almost throughout the year, irrespective of the season of the year.
Therefore, there should be some check over the number of visitors as well as to their activities, for proper conservation and preservation of one of the best preserved ecosystems of state. Usage and throwing of non biodegradable substances should be banned. Strict legislative measures should be imposed by concerned departments. If is is not done now itself, this Kodachadri, will be converted to a garbage disposed ground within few years.
Physico – Chemical characters of the water of the temple pond of Kodachadri:
The water was acidic in nature due to high content of carbon dioxide. The values of total hardness, chlorides, sulphates, calcium, alkalinity, and pH values were below the permissible level of drinking water standards (Table No. 7)
For the conservation of this unique ecosystem, the government announced the forest cover in this region as reserve forest, under the name “ Kodachadri Reserve Forest ”. (in 1970)
The forest is situated on the western boundary of the district. The Nagara-Kolloor road passes in the middle of the forest. This forest forms the boundary of the district towards, west, south, a small portion in the east. Configuration of the ground is steep. Kodachadri is the highest point in this reserve forest area and this reserve forest comes under Hosanagara range.
Kodachadri is situated on the southernmost corner of the forest. The underlying rock is generally gneiss. The soil is sandy loam with varying depth. The forest is wet evergreen.
Even though the forest has been announced as reserve forest, several decades back, no developmental activities or the study of the forest area has been undertaken.
No timber extraction, Authorities are leasing the permission to private parties for the collection of Dalchini and Ramapatre, once in a year.
Total area of this reserved forest is 2404. 21 acres.
One researcher, Mr. Nandakumar Kamath identified eitght “Hotspots” of fungal diversity in Western Ghats . Kodachadri is one amongst them. So he suggests dedicate this to the preservation of fungal biodiversity. (Fredrick Noronha 1994)
Fungal culture collection contain many novel genomes, so could have much use in the biotechnology for food, medicine, agriculture and industry.
Proposal for Biosphere Reserve:
Taking into consideration the vegetation type, diversity in species and percentage of endemic and endangered species in the region, Dr. Sundara Raghavan of Botanical Survey of India, in 1981, recommended that Kodachadri –Kolloru region of Western ghat should be served as “Biosphere Reserve”. (Sundara Ragavan -1981)
The forest department is also mentioned in its report that “by providing strict protection” a Biosphere “Kodachadri Chakra” can be developed. (Details of Kodachadri reserve forests)
Thus experts are of opinion that “Kodachadri” region is having essential characters to develop it into a “Biosphere Reserve”.
Biosphere Reserves have been described as undisturbed natural areas for scientific study as well as areas in which conditions of disturbance are under control. They have been set aside for ecological research and habitat preservation. Ramde (1984 of Arora -1992) described them as the means to protect ecosystems, whether natural or modified by human activity, in order to preserve ecological ‘evidence' for the purpose of scientific research.
A protected area that can be declared as a biosphere, should satisfy the following essential criteria.
• Should provide a network of protected terrestrial and coastal environments which form a coherent system on a world scale.
• Should occur in each of the 193 bio geographic provinces of the world distinguished in the classification of Udvardy (1970) so as to exhibit the maximum genetic diversity.
• Should show a complete range of the different types of human interferences, from ecosystems untouched to those which have been degraded by humans.
• Structure and size should ensure the efficient conservation of the desired ecosystems.
• Should have sufficient resources available fore ecological education, training and research to be carried on in respect to conservation of nature.
• If possible should have geographic continuity with other types of protected areas.
• Should have adequate long term legal protection.
In Kodachadri area, almost all these criteria can be fulfilled. Kodachadri shows a complete range of the different types of human interference, from ecosystem untouched to those which have been degraded by humans.
In Mathikai area forests have been completely degraded and in Chitramoola area and in various other areas the ecosystem are is untouched. Structure and size will ensure the efficient conservation of the desired ecosystems.
Sufficient resources are available for ecological education, training and research to be carried on in respect to conservation of nature. It is also having geographical continuity with other types of protected areas. It is also having adequate long term legal protection. So the authorities and experts are properly selected Kodachadri for the declaration of Biosphere Reserve. As far as the legislative measures are concerned no proper action and study has been taken to declare it as a “Biosphere Reserve”. It is only a proposal.
The programme concerned to Biosphere Reserves known as Biosphere Reserve Network programme was launched by UNESCO in 1971. The main objectives of this programme are;
• Conserve biotic diversity for ecological evidence.
• Safeguard genetic diversity for the process of evolution to act upon.
• provide natural areas for basic and applied research in ecology and environmental Biology.
• Provide opportunity for environmental education and training.
• Promote international co-operation.
• Promote appropriate sustainable management of the available biotic resources.
• Disseminate the experience so as topromote sustainable development elsewhere.
As of January 1989, 274 Biosphere Reserves have been established in 68 countries. The list includes 14 sites in India .
6. Acknowledgement |
We thank the Chairman, Department Applied Botany and The Chairman Department of Environmental Science, Kuvempu University , Shankaraghatta – 577 451, for providing laboratories facilities and other facilities.
7. Bibliography |
• Agarwal K.C. – 1993, Environmental Biology – Second Edition, Agro Batanical Publishers, India .
• Arora M.P. – 1992 Ecology – Second Edition, Himalaya Publishing House, Delhi .
• Chakra Scheme Published by Karnataka Power Corporation, Varahi Project Chakra Nagara.
• Dodda Ashwatha Narayana Swamy – 1995 Nashada Anchinalli Kodachadri” Prajavani Sapthahika Puravani” – 21-05-1995 .
• Fredrick Noronha – 1994 “Preserving Zone for Fungi” Indian Express “ – 07-02-1994 .
• Gamble J.S. Flora of Madras Presidency (1935) – Volume – I to 3 Published by Botanical Survey of India Calcutta .
• Ganapathi G.N. – 1996, A project report on “Gum and Resin Yielding Plants of Kodachandri”
• Karnataka State Gazetter – Dakshina Kannada District and Shimoga District.
• Rama Rao K.S. Skanda Puranatargata “Sree Mokabika Kshetra Mahatme”.
• Rangarajan A – 1994 “Battered Nilgiris” Frontline ( 30-07-1994 – 12-08-1994 ) Printed and Published by Rangarajan .S. on behalf of M/s. Kasturi and Sons Ltd., Madras .
• Sharanappa . P 1994 - A project report on “Timber Yielding Plants of Kodachandri”, Post Graduate Studies in Applied Botany, Kuvempu University, Shankaraghatta – 577 415.
• Srirama Bhat .K. 1994-95 – A project report on “Ecological Scenario of Kodachandri” Department of Environmental Sceinces, Kuvempu University , Shankaraghatta – 577 415.
• Socio Ecological Evaluation of Sharavathy tail race Project Edited and Published by – Samagra Vikasa Bangalore.
• Sreenivasa .B.N. – 1995 “Malenadina Kodachadri – Ulisi” Manjuvani, - 1995.
• Sundrara Raghavan .R. 1981 “Conservation Forestry and Biosphere Reserves along Western Ghats ” Published in report of National Seminar on Forest and Environment held on 2 nd and 3 rd of December – 1981.
• Syed Tabraz Baha, 1996 – A project report on “Bee Flora of Kodachandri” , Post Graduate Studies in Applied Botany, Kuvempu University, Shankaraghatta – 577 415.
• Tyler Miller G. Jr. “Resources Conservation and Management” Worlds Worth Publishers California
• Working Plan – (1989 – 90) of Sagara Division Published by – Karnataka Forest Department, Bangalore .
Table No . :1 Timber yielding plants of Kodachadri and its surrounding areas
| Sl. No. | Common Name | Botanical Name | Family | Distribution |
| 1 | Antuvala | SapSapindus emarginatus vahl | Sapindaceae | Sampe Katte |
| 2 | Appe mara | Mangifera sp., | Anacardiaceae | Kattina Hole |
| 3 | Athi mara | Ficus glomerata Roxb | Moraceae | Throughout forest |
| 4 | Beete | Dalbergia latifolia Roxb | SF: Papilionaceae | Near Sampekatte, Kattina Hole. |
| 5 | Bilkambi | Albizia amara Biov | Mimoseae | Sampetatte, Shola forest. |
| 6 | Bettada Kanagalu | Dellenia sp., | Delliniaceae | Shola Forest |
| 7 | Buruga | Bombax malabaricum Dc | Bombacaceae | Sampekatte. |
| 8 | Bage | Albizia labbek Benth | Mimoseae | Sampekatte |
| 9 | Bharanige | Vitex altissima | Verbenaceae | Evergreen Forest |
| 10 | Bilalu | Albizia sp., | Mimoseae | Kattina Hole |
| 11 | Basari | Ficus lacor Buch | Moraceae | Throughout Forest |
| 12 | Chaluka | Macranga roxburghi Wt | Euphorbiaceae | Evergreen forest, |
| 13 | Chara | Buchnania latifolia Roxb | Anac ardiaceae | Kattinahole, Harivekan Jad |
| 14 | Chunga | Symplaco spicata Roxb | Symplocaceae | Shola Forest . |
| 15 | Dhuma | Dipterocarpus sp., | Dipterocarpaceae | Harivekan Jad, Evergreen forest. |
| 16 | Dalchinni | Cinnamom sp., | Lauraceae | Throughout forest |
| 17 | Dhupa | Vateria indica Bull | Dipterocarpaceae | Evergreen forest, Harivekan Jad |
| 18 | Gandha Garige | Cedrella toona Roxb | Meliaceae | Kattina Hole, Harivenkan Jad, Evergreen forest. |
| 19 | Gulamavu | Machilus macrantha Nees | Lauraceae | Kattina Hole, Evergreen forest. |
| 20 | Honalu | Terminalia paniculata Roth | Combretaceae | Sampekatte, Mathikai, Harivekan Jad. |
| 21 | Honne | Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb | Papolionaceae | Sampekatte, Harivenkan Jad, Karekatte. |
| 22 | Halasu | Artocarpus intigrifolia | Moraceae | Shola forest, Kattina Hole. |
| 23 | Halani | Erythrina sp., | Papilionaceae | Shola forest |
| 24 | Holegeri | Holigarna arnottiana Hook | Anacardiaceae | Evergreen forest. |
| 25 | Holemathi | Terminalia arjuna W&A | Combretaceae | Harivekan Jad. |
| 26 | Haiga | Hopea Whitiana Wall | Dipterocarpaceae | Evergreen forest. |
| 27 | Hebbalasu | Artoccarpus hirsuta L | Moraceae | Harivekan Jad, Evergreen forest |
| 28 | Halamaddi | Canarium Stirctum Roxb | Burseraceae | Evergreen forest, Shola forest |
| 29 | Jumma | Zanthoxylum budrunga Wall | Rutaceae | Sampekatte |
| 30 | Jambe | Xylia xylocarpa Roxb | Mimoseae | Shola forest |
| 31 | Karimathi | Terminalia alata Heyne | Combretaceae | Evergreen forest, Sampekatte, Harivekan Jad. |
| 32 | Kavalu | Careya arborea Roxb | Lecytherdaceae | Sampekatte, Shola forest. |
| 33 | Karagasa Mara | Ficus asparima Roxb | Moraceae | Shola forest, Evergreen forest |
| 34 | Kadu amate | Spondias acuminata Lin | Sapindaceae | Chitrakota |
| 35 | Mavu | Mangifera Indica Lin | Anacardiaceae | Kattina Hole, Shola forest, Evergreen forest. |
| 36 | Mase mara | Alseodaphne semicarpifolia | Lauraceae | Evergreen forest. |
| 37 | Muthuga | Butea monosperma Roxb | papilionaceae | Sampekatte. |
| 38 | Mandara | Bauhinia sp., | Ceasalpinaceae | Between Kollur and Karekatte. |
| 39 | Maddarasa | Ervatamia heyneana Cook | Apocyanaceae | Sampekatte Harivekan Jad. |
| 40 | Maddi dhupa | Ailanthus malabarica | Simurbaceae | Shola forest. |
| 41 | Maddale | Alstonia scholaris Rbr | Apocyanaceae | Shola forest. |
| 42 | Nandi | Legerstroemia lanceolata vahl | Lythraceae | Evergreen forest. |
| 43 | Neralu | Syzygium sp., | Myrtaceae | Throughout forest. |
| 44 | Naga sampige | Mesua ferreae Lin | Guttiferae | Evergreen forest. |
| 45 | Neerathi | Ficus callosa Wild | Moraceae | Throughout forest. |
| 46 | Ranjulu | Mimusops elengi Lin | Sapotaceae | Mathikai, Harivekan Jad. |
| 47 | Rampatre | Myristica malabarica Roxb | Myristicaceae | Shola forest, karekatte. |
| 48 | Salle | Glochidion lanceolarium Dalz | Eupharbiaceae | Shola forest, Evergreen |
| 49 | Sampige | Michelia sp., | Magnoliaceae | Chitrakota. |
| 50 | Srigandha | Santalum album Linn | Santalaceae | Sampekatte. |
| 51 | Sathiga | Eleocarpus Sp., | Eleocarpaceae | Harivekan Jad, Evergreen forest. |
| 52 | Tare | Terminalia bellarica Roxb | Moraceae | Harivekan Jad Kattina Hole |
| 53 | Vate | Artoccarpus lakooncha Roxb | Moraceae | Harivekan Jad |
| 54 | Chitbage | -- | --- | Shola Forest |
| 55 | Thaleppina Mara | -- -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 56 | Chatsege | -- | --- | Sampekatte |
| 57 | Guju | -- | --- | Sampekatte |
| 58 | Antuburulu | -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 59 | Karimara | -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 60 | Kesavina mara | -- | --- | Chitrakota |
| 61 | Godda | -- | --- | Kattina Hole |
| 62 | Thaladhupa | -- | --- | Kattina Hole |
| 63 | Balagane mara | -- | --- | Kattina Hole |
| 64 | Muruga Mara | -- | -- | Kattina Hole |
| 65 | Jeenage | -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 66 | Akki araklu | -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 67 | Hangaraka | -- | --- | Mathikai |
| 68 | Kengaralu | -- | --- | Harivekan Jad |
| 69 | Hallenne mara | -- | --- | Evergreen forest |
| 70 | Kadaru mara | -- | --- | Kattinahole |
Table No. 2 Bee Plants Of Kodachadri
| Botanical Name | Family | Common Name | Honey Potential | Flowering period | Distribution | Type (Nature) | Other economic uses |
| Hibiscus rosa-sinensis | Malvaceae | Dasvala | N+P | Nov-Dec | Distributated in all parts of Kodachadri | Herb | Dyeing and ornamental |
| Albizia amara Biou | Mimosaceae | Bilkasbi | N+P | Apr-May | Moist dacideovs forest | Tree | Fodder, Fuel,paper Industry and Timber ` |
| Acacia concinna Dc | Mimosaceae | Seege | N+P | May-Jun | Moist decideovs forest | Tree | Medicinal, Dyeing, Tanning Industry and timber |
| Mimosa pudica Linn. | Mimosaceae | Sentive plant | N+P | Jul-Aug | Distributated in all parts of Kodachadri | Herb | Ornamental (Weed) |
| Ficus infectoria Roxb. | Moraceae | Basari | P | May-Apr | Semi ever green | Tree | Fuel Fodder, Medicinal |
| Artocarpous interifolia .L. | Moraceae | Halasi | P | May-Jun | Wet ever green | Tree | Fruit, Fuel, Medicinal |
| Adhatoda vesica Nees | Acanthaceae | Adusoku | N+P | Apr-May | Semi ever green | Shrub | Medicinal and Soil reclamations |
| Strabilanthus ciliatus Linn. | Acanthaceae | Strabilantus | N+P | 7 Yrs. O | Semi ever green | Shrub | Medicinal weed |
| Aeclepias curassavica Linn. | Asclepiadacae | Milk weed | N+P | Apr-Jun | Semi ever green | Shrub | Medicinal and fibre (weed) |
| Vitex leuoxylon Linn. | Verbenaceae | Lakhi | P+N | Mar/Apr | Semi evergreen forest | Shrub | Omamental hede and medicinal |
| Cocos nucifera L. | Arecaceae | Cosonut | P+N | All Sea. | Plantation crop <P.C> | Tree | Fruit, Medicinal |
| Areca catechu Linn. | Arecaceae | Adika | P+N | Dec/Jun | Plantation crop | Tree | Fruit, Medicinal |
| Caryota urens L. | Arecaceae | China tree | N+P | Dec/Jan | Semi ever green | Tree | Fruit, Medicinal |
| Phoenix sylvestris Roxb. | Arecaceae | Eachahi | N+P | Jul/Aug | Wet ever green | Tree | Fruit, Medicinal |
| Cimamum Zylanicum Blame | Lauraceae | Cinnasua | N+P | Oct/Nov | Shola forest | Tree | Tree bark and have Medicinal uses |
| Hevea brosiliensis Muell. | Euphorbiaceae | Rubber tree | N | Feb/Mar | Plantation Crop | Tree | Latex used for Fubber Manufacture |
| Emblica officinalis Geartn. | Euphorbiaceae | Nalli | N+P | Mar/Apr | Semi evergreen | Tree | Fruit, Tanning and Medicinal |
| Termininialia arjuna Linn. | Combertaceae | Mathi | N+P | Jun/July | Wet evergreen | Tree | Tisber, fuel tanning and dying |
| Terminalia Chebula L. | Combertaceae | Alalu | N+P | May/Jul | Wet evergreen | Tree | Fruit, Medicinal, Bark for Tanning |
| T. bellarica Linn. | Combertaceae | Tari | N+P | Jun/July | Wet evergreen | Tree | Fruit, medicinal Bark for tanning and Dying |
| Santalua album Linn. | Santalaceae | Sandal wood | P | Nov/Dec | Moist | Tree | Sandal wood oil used medicinal and cosmetics |
| Bombax ceiba Linn. | Bombacaceae | Silk cotton tree | N+P | Feb/Mar | Semi evergreen | Tree | Fibre, Timber and Fodder |
| Bombax malabaricum Dc. | Bombacaceae | Burga | N+P | Feb/Mar | Semi evergreen | Tree | Fibre, Timber and Fodder |
| Salvia officinalis Linn. | Labiatate | Sage | N+P | Feb-Mar | Wet ever green | Herb | Ornamental and medicinal |
| Pongamia pinnata Merr. | Papilionaceae | Home | N+P | Mar-Apr | Semi evergreen | Tree | Fuel fibre, Medicinal |
| Butea monosperma Taub. | Papilionaceae | Flame of Forest | N | May-Jun | Semi evergreen | Tree | Dyeing and Medicinal ornamental |
| Crotoloaria juncea L | Papilionaceae | Sun heap | N+P | Jul-Agu | Distributed in all parts of Kodachadri | Herb | Crop fibre and leaves good mannur |
| Erythrina suberosa Roxb. | Papilionaceae | Coral tree | N+P | May-Jun | Distributed in all parts of Kodachadri | Tree | Fibre |
| Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. | Papilionaceae | Home | N+P | May-Jun | Semi evergreen | Tree | |
| Lagerstroemia lanceolata wall | Lytheraceae | Nandi | N+P | Mar/Apr | Wet ever green forest | Tree | Purgative, timber and ornamentals |
| Michelia champaca Linn. | Magnoliaceae | Sampage | P | All sea. | Semi evergreen forest | Tree | Fuel, Ornamental |
| Mangifera indica Linn. | Anacardiaceae | Mango | N | Jan/Feb | Semi evergreen | Tree | Fruit, Fuel and timber |
| Anacardium Occidentale Linn. | Anacardiaceae | Garu [Cashew nut] | P | Jan/Feb | Semi evergreen cultivated wild | Tree | Fruit, Fuel and timber |
| Azadirachta indica Juss. | Meliaceae | Bavu | N+P | Mar/Apr | Wet green Cultivated | Tree | Medicinal & insecticide [Repellant] |
| Cedrella toona Roxb. | Meliaceae | Ganadagarige | N+P | Feb/Mar | Wet green Cultivated | Tree | Dyeing and Furniture |
| Sapindus emerginatus Vahal. | Sapindaceae | Soap Nut | N | May/June | Semi evergreen forest | Tree | Medicinal Fruits as Soap |
| Vitex negundu Linn. | Verbenaceae | Hola lukhi | P+N | Mar/Apr | Semi evergreen forest | Shrub | Ornamental hedge and medicinal |
TABLE No. 3 Gum And Resin Yielding Plants Of Kodachadri
| Sl. No. | Botanical Name | Common Name | Local Name | Family | Nature of Exudates | Part exudate |
| 1. | Anogeissus latifolia, Wall. | Axle Wood | Dindiga | Combretaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 2. | Azadiracta indica. A. juss. (Syn: Melia azadiraca. L ) | Neem | Bevu | Meliaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 3. | Ailanthus malabarica, De. (Syn: Ailanthus truphysa (De. Als) | ------ | Maddidhupa, Gugguladhupa, Bagadhupa Dhupa, Hemmara | Simaroubaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 4. | Anacardium accidentale. Linn. | Cashew | Geru Godambi | Anacardiaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 5. | Bombax malabaricum, De. (Syn: Bombax ceiba, L) | Red silk Cotton | Bural; Red Buruga | Bombacaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 6. | Bauhinia purpurea, L. | Camel's foot | ------ | Caesalpinaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 7. | Bauhinia retusa, Roxb. | ------ | Goddarimara | Caesalipinaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 8. | Bauhinia varieqate Linn | ------ | Kanchanar | Caesalpinaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 9. | Butea frondosa. Koen. (Syn: Butea monosperma, Roxb.) | Flame of forest (Basterd teak) | Muthuga | Papilionaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 10. | Butea parviflara, Roxb. (Syn: Spatholobous roxburghii, B. | ------ | Mukkate balli (Kadvare) | Papilionaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 11. | Buchanania latifolia, Roxb. | ------ | Nurukal | Anaceardiaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 12. | Boswellia serrata, Roxb. Ex colheber | Indian olibanum (Indian frankincense) | Lobana mara chilaka dhupa | Burreraceae | Resin | Bark |
| 13. | Calophyllum inophyllum, Linn. | Pinnay oil tree | Surahonne | Guttiferae | Gum | Bark |
| 14. | Calophyllum apetalum, Willd. (Syn: C. Wightianum, Andress) | ------ | Holehonne | Guttiferae | Gum | Bark |
| 15. | Canarium strictum, Roxb. | Black dammar | Halamaddi (Raladhupa) | Burseraceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 16. | Dipterocarpus bourdilloni, Brandis. | Dhuma | Dhuma | Depterocarpaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 17. | Dipterocarpus indicus, Bedd. (Syn: D. turbinatus, Gautn) | Black dammar | Guga | Dipterocarpaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 18. | Eucalyptus globuls, l Labell. | Eucalyptus | Nilgiri | Myrtaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 19. | Guruga pinnata, Roxb. | ------ | Goddanamara | Burseraceae | Gum | Bark |
| 20. | Holigarna beddomei, Hork. | ------ | Doddaleholegera | Anacardiaceae | Resin | Bark |
| 21. | Holigarna arnottiana Hork. | ------ | Sannaleholegera | Anacardiaceae | Resin | Bark |
| 22. | Hordwickia pinnata, Roxb. | ------ | Yannemara | Caesalipinaceae | Resin | Bark |
| 23. | Mesua ferra, Linn. | Iron Wood | Nagasampige | Guttiferae | Gum | Bark |
| 24. | Machilus macrantha, Neer. | ------ | Gulumavu | Lauraceae | Gum | Bark |
| 25. | Mangifera indica. L. | Mango | Mavu | Anacardiaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 26. | Odina wodier, Roxb. (Syn: Lannea grandis Engle) | Guggul | Udimara | Anaceardiaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 27. | Petrocarpus marsupium, Rexb. | Indian King | Honne | papilionaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 28. | Semicarpus anacardum, Linn. | Marking Nut | Karigeru Guddegeru | Anacardiaceae | Resin | Bark |
| 29. | Spondia pinnata (koen). Kurz. (Syn: S. mangifera willd) (Mangifera pinnata L.F) | ------ | Kadamate | Anacardiaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 30. | Sterculia urens, Roxb. | Indian tragacenth (Gum Karaya) | Buthale (Kandol) | Anacardiaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 31. | Styrk benzion, Drgand. | Benzoin tree | Lobanamara | Styraceae | Resin | Bark |
| 32. | Terminalia bellarica, Roxb. | Beleric Myoobalaus | Tari | Combrataceae | Gum | Bark,Fruit |
| 33. | Terminalia tomentosa, Roxb. | Mathi | Karimatti | Combrataceae | Gum | Bark |
| 34. | Toona ciliate, Roem. (Syn: Cedrela toona, Roxb. Ex Rottle &wild) | Red toon | Gandhagarigi (Devadari) | Meliaceae | Gum | Bark |
| 35. | Vateria roxburghiana, Bl, (Syn: V. chinensis, Linn.) | ------ | Uggal adhupa | Dipteracarpaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
| 36. | Vateria malabarica, Bl. (Syn: Vateria India , Linn.) | White dammar (Indian capal) | Raladammar Saladhupa Shite guggula | Dipteracarpaceae | Oleo-Resin | Bark |
Table No. 4 : Medicinal Plants Of Kodachadri
| Sl. No. | Common Name | Botanical Name | Medicinal Value |
| 1. | Muttuga | Butea monosperma (Taub) | An astringent. |
| 2. | Booruga | Bombax malabaricum (DC) | An aphrodisiac haemostatic. |
| 3. | Seega | Acaci concinna (DC) | An astiringent. |
| 4. | Hebbalasu | Artocarpus hirsute (Lam) | Testicle and Bubos treatment |
| 5. | Halasu | Artocarpus heterophuylla (Lam) | An laxative, used in Skin diseases |
| 6. | Dalchini | Cinnamoum zeylanicum (Bl) | Aromatic, Astring Stimulant. |
| 7. | Beete | Dalbergia latifolia (Roxb) | Stomachic, used in dyspepsia, diarrhoea, leprosy, obesity and worms. |
| 8. | Ficus | Ficus glomerata (Roxb) | Rinder-pest treatment, used in dysentery and diabetes. |
| 9. | Kutacha | Holarrhena antidysentrica (Wall) | Febrifuge, used in dysentery, diarrhoea intestinal worms |
| 10. | Kari Menasu | Piper nigrum (Linn) | Aromatic, stimulant in cholera, used in dyspepsia. |
| 11. | Rampatre | Myristica malabarica | Fat mixed with little oil applied to indolent ulcers, allays pain. |
| 12. | Tari | Terminalia bellerica (Roxb) | Laxative, Antipyretic, used in piles, |
TABLE 5: Common name botanical name of the trees of Kodachadri
| Sl. No. | Common Name | Botanical Name | Family |
| 1. | Sala dhoopa | Vateria malavarica (Bl) | Dipterocarpaceae |
| 2. | Bogi | Hopea glabra (W& A) | Dipterocarpaceae |
| 3. | Haiga | H. wightiana (W & A) | Dipterocarpaceae |
| 4. | Jala | Shorea talura (Roxb) | Dipterocarpaceae |
| 5. | Dhooma | Dipterocarpus bourdilloni (Brand) | Leguminsae. |
| 6. | Belagi | Dalbergia lanceolaria (L.F) | Leguminsae. |
| 7. | Beete (Rosewood) | Dalbergia latifolia (Roxb) | Leguminsae. |
| 8. | Bilkambi | Albizzia amara (Boiv) | Leguminsae |
| 9. | Bilwara | A. odoratissima (Benth) | Leguminsae |
| 10. | Seega | Acacia concinna (DC) | Leguminsae |
| 11. | Honne | Pterocarpus marsupium (Roxb) | Leguminsae |
| 12. | Ippemara | Madhuca indica (Gmel) | Sapotaceae |
| 13. | Sanna ippe | M. longifera (Macber) | Sapotaceae |
| 14. | Hole ippe | M. malabarica | Sapotaceae |
| 15. | Ranjala | Madhuca musopselengi (Linn) | Sapotaceae |
| 16. | Hadasalu | Palaguim ellipticum (Engler) | Sapotaceae |
| 17. | Tari | Terminalia bellerica (Roxb) | Combretaceae |
| 18. | Mathi | T. arjuna (W & A ) | Combretaceae. |
| 19. | Alale | T. Chebula (Retz) | Combretaceae. |
| 20. | Hunal | T. paniculata (Roth) | Combretaceae |
| 21 | Chara | Buchanania latifolia (Roxb) | Anacardiaceae |
| 22. | Doddeleholegara | Holigarna beddomei (Hk.f) | Anacardiaceae |
| 23 | Sanneleholegara | H. arnottiana (Hk.f) | Anacardiaceae |
| 24. | Mavu | Mangifera indica (L) | Anacardiaceae |
| 25. | Gulmavu | Machilus macrantha (Nees) | Lauraceae. |
| 26. | Dalchini (Advai) | Cinnamomum macrocarpum (Hk.f) | Lauraceae. |
| 27. | Dalchini | C. zeylanicum (Blume) | Lauraceae. |
| 28. | Sura hone | Calophyllum inophyllum (Linn) | Guttiferae. |
| 29. | Hole honne | C. apatulum (Willd) | Guttiferae. |
| 30. | Nagasampige | Meusa ferrea (Linn) | Guttiferae. |
| 31. | Eechala | Phoenix suylvestris (Roxb) | Palmaceae |
| 32. | Baine | Caryota urens (Linn) | Palmaceae |
| 33. | Madle | Syzygium laita (Buch-Ham) | Myrtaceae |
| 34. | Nerale | S. cumini (Skeels) | Myrtaceae |
| 35. | Deveadaru | Dysoxylum malabaricum (Bedd) | Meliaceae |
| 36. | Gandagarige | Cedrela toona (Roxb) | Meliaceae |
| 37 | Hottenola | Amoora canarana (Hiern) | Meliaceae |
| 38. | Madlemara | Ervatamia heyneana (Cooke) | Apocyanaceae |
| 39. | Kanagalu | Nerium odorum (Soland) | Apocyanaceae |
| 40. | Basari | Ficus infectoria (Roxb) | Moraceae. |
| 41. | Halasu | Artocarpus integrifolia (L) | Moraceae. |
| 42. | Habbalasu | A. hirsute (Lam) | Moraceae. |
| 43. | Sannele kendala | Nephelium longana (Camb) | Sapindaceae. |
| 44. | Antuvala | Sapindus emerginatus (Vahl) | Sapindaceae. |
| 45. | Netteralu | Argyreia cuneata (Ker-Gawl) | Convolvulaceae |
| 46. | Rampatre | Mysristica malabarica (Lame) | Myristicaceae |
| 47. | Ramanadike | M. magnifica (Bedd) | Myristicaceae |
| 48. | Nandi | Lagerstroemia lanceolata (Wal) | Lythraceae. |
| 49. | Sudagenasu | Litsea withtiana (Hk.f) | Lauraceae |
| 50. | Gull | Mastixia arborea (Clerke) | Cornaceae |
| 51. | Satiga | Eleocarpus tuberculatus (Roxb) | Eleocarpaceae |
| 52. | Chunga | Symplocos lauriana (Wall) | Symplocaceae |
| 53. | Mangappe | Evodia lunu-ankenda (Mirr) | Rutaceae |
| 54. | Burga | Bombax malabaricum (DC) | Bombacaceae |
| 55. | Naviladi | Vitex alitissima (L.f) | Verbenaceae |
| 56. | Kansuragi | Wendlandia exserta (DC) | Rubiaceae |
| 57. | Halamaddi | Canarium strictum (Roxb) | Burseraceae |
TABLE No. 6 : ANIMALS OF KODACHADRI AND THEIR SYSTEMATICS
| Sl. No. | Common Name | Zoological Name | Class | Order | Family |
| 1. | Lion tailed macaque | Macaca silenus | Mammalia | Primates | Circopithecoidae |
| 2. | Tiger | Panthera tigris | Mammalia | Carnivora | Felidae |
| 3. | Panther | Panthera pardus | Mammalia | Carnivora | Felidae |
| 4. | Hyaena | Hyaena hyanea | Mammalia | Carnivora | Viveridae |
| 5. | Civet cat | Vivericula indica | Mammalia | Carnivora | Viveridae |
| 6. | Indian giant squirrel | Rotufa indica | Mammalia | Rodentia | Sciuridae |
| 7. | Indian bison | Bos qaurus | Mammalia | Artiodactyla | Bovidae |
| 8. | Sambhar | Cervus unicolor | Mammalia | Artiodactyla | Cervidae |
| 9. | Wild boar | Sus scropa | Mammalia | Artiodactyla | Suidae |
| 10. | Sloth bear | Melursus ursinus | Mammalia | Carnivora | Ursidae |
| 11. | Wolf | Canis lupus | Mammalia | Carnivora | Canidae |
| 12. | Jackal | Canis aureus | Mammalia | Carnivora | Canidae |
| 13. | King cobra | Ophiophagus hannah | Reptilea | Squmata | Elaphidae |
| 14. | Python | Python molurus | Reptilea | Squmata | Boidae |
| 15. | Peacock | Pavo cristatus | Aves | ------ | ------- |
TABLE No. 7 : Physical and Chemical characteristics of the water of the temple pond of Kodachadri. (in mg.1 -1 expect p H )
| Sl. No. | Parameters | Concentration |
| 1. | pH | 6.00 |
| 2. | Dissolved oxygen | 6.05 |
| 3. | Dissolved Carbon dioxide | 12.00 |
| 4. | Total hardness | 12.00 |
| 5. | Chlorides | 9.93 |
| 6. | Calcium | 1.60 |
| 7. | Alkalinity | 2.00 |
| 8. | Sulphates | 153.60 |
| 9. | Sodium | 3.80 |
| 10. | Potassium | 4.00 |
1. Department of Applied Botany
2. Department of Enviromnental Science
Kuvempu University, Shankaraghatta: 577451, Karnataka, India .
7. Bibliography |