The Endangered Myristica Swamp Forest Of Maharashtra Found By Researchers

Recently, a Holy Myristica swamp forest has been discovered by researchers in Kumbral, Maharashtra near to the boundary of Goa and Maharashtra. It also shines light on the inescapable truth that local communities are indeed an integral part of preserving any endangered ecosystem. The sacred trees like these are generally preserved due to religious beliefs attached to them, and specifically in this case the deity of veneration being Lord Shiva, also known as Bhalandeshwar in local dialect.

An Endangered Species of Plant: Myristica Magnificica

• Myristica magnifica – an endangered plant species, found in Karnataka & Kerala
• Wildlife habitat and food, for instance the endangered hornbill birds.
• The wood of the tree is locally used and its eo is currently under research by aromatherapists.

Myristica swamp forest in Kumbral, Maharashtra discovered

• After Kuruchbhandi and Wayanad, the only 2nd village where a Myristica swamp forest occurs in Maharashtra.
• The community has since ancient times this area, deemed sacrosanct and pertaining to the Lord Shiva as one of his own. 
• The forest delivers critical ecosystem services, including groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration, and flood control.

Research and Documentation

• Another paper by Pravin Desai, Vishal Sadekar and Shital Desai found that the jungle is vital as a home to many species as well as support several wildlife mainly Chinkara.

Conservation Importance

• To maintain ecological balance in the Western Ghats it is important to conserve forest system of Myristica swamp.