New distribution and range extension records of geometrid moths (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) from two western Himalayan protected areas

This article presents new distribution and range extension records (including new records from the state of Uttarakhand) of 12 species of the Geometridae family along with their taxonomic records. The records are based on field collections, where sampling was done along elevation and vegetation gradients in the buffer zones of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, two prominent protected areas in the western Himalayan Indian state of Uttarakhand. DNA barcoding was performed for some of the species for confirmation of identification in addition to the morphological identifications. Voucher specimens are deposited in a public repository for future reference.

Genetic evidence indicates new distribution record of endangered Kashmir musk deer (Moschus cupreus) with range expansion in Uttarakhand, India

Kashmir musk deer, KMD (Moschus cupreus) is one the most threatened species reported from the Himalayan region of Kashmir, Pakistan and Afghanistan. A comprehensive and reliable distribution range of musk deer is still lacking. Recently, a molecular study confirmed the presence of KMD in Mustang in Nepal, west of Annapurna Himalayas. Here, we investigated the phylogenetic relationship of musk deer from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS), and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR), Uttarakhand region, India based on mitochondrial control region. The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis indicated a close genetic relationship between samples from J&K, KWLS and NDBR with identified lineages of KMD from Nepal with high posterior probabilities (PP∼100). It confirmed that the musk deer lineage from the Uttarakhand region of KWLS (1025-3662 m) and NDBR (1800-7817 m) to be of KMD (M. cupreus) and hence a distinct Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). Besides, as per the IUCN database, the Western Himalayan region also holds the population of M. leucogaster and M. chrysogaster. Hence, we suggest extensive sampling for proper identification and validation of the geographic limits of musk deer species. We report for the first time the existence of KMD from the Uttarakhand region that we recommend to be updated in the IUCN database. It will assist in the effective conservation and management of this enigmatic endangered species.

Bioassessment of Mandakini River with the help of aquatic macroinvertebrates in the vicinity of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

Increasing advancement in development activities in the Indian Himalayan region in tandem with changing climate is influencing the ecological patterns of rivers. Thus, the present study investigates the effect of various degrees of anthropogenic stresses and possible implication of thermal dynamics of river water on the macroinvertebrate community in the Mandakini River, which flows in the vicinity of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. The main objective was to study the community structure of macroinvertebrates in the Mandakini River and to calculate the effect of anthropogenic stresses on the macroinvertebrate community, particularly on Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera. The study was carried out in 10 spatially located sampling stations, and the frequency of sampling was divided into pre- and post-monsoon season (May and November 2017). Based on the degree of anthropogenic stresses, sampling locations were divided into least (Sonprayag), medium (Ukhimath), and high disturbed (Rudraprayag) sites. A total of 3257 individuals belonging to 7 orders and 21 families were found in both the sampling season. Diptera and Trichoptera were dominant orders in both the seasons, whereas Baetidae (Ephemeroptera), Hydropsychidae, Leptoceridae (Trichoptera) and Chironomidae (Diptera) were dominant families. Shannon diversity index varies from 2.048 to 2.25 in the least disturbed site (Sonprayag), 0.186–2.446 in medium disturbance (Ukhimath), and 1.362–2.271 in the highly disturbed site (Rudraprayag) in both the sampling season. Quantification of the EPT index shows a negative trend with an increase in anthropogenic stress, and it was least in Rudraprayag as compared to the other two sites. Result of one-way ANOVA shows a significant difference in diversity between pre- and post-monsoon season (p < 0.05). Analyzing the research gaps, it is recommended to have long-term ecological monitoring of high altitude and glacier-fed rivers and streams to obtain robust information regarding the dynamics of the riverine ecosystem in Garhwal Himalayas.

Ecotourism as a Viable Option for Conservation of Wildlife in Protected Areas Under Shivalik Hills of the Outer Himalaya, India

The concept of ecotourism in protected areas and their implications for the conservation of flora and fauna are of global significance. Ecotourism is not only for suitable practice of tourism in protected areas as it deals with environmental conservation, but also supports local communities. The Himalaya in present times harbors a good increase of ecotourism in protected areas like Rajaji tiger reserve, Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve, Corbett National park, Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary, etc. Efforts done by state government in building tourism state have promoted the tourism industry in general. This chapter will explore the potential of ecotourism in protected areas and the local people's perceptions towards the local tourism, conservation of wildlife and substitutes for their livelihood. Additionally, it will explore potential sites already developed or can be developed for increasing options for enhancing ecotourism, providing information about various tools, which can attract the tourists from various disciplines.