The Alluring Flora And Fauna Of Meghalaya
Hello, and thanks for stopping by on my blog! Since you have clicked on this article, it must mean you are as interested to learn about the enchanting state of Meghalaya just as much as I am. Meghalaya, which in Sanskrit translated to ‘abode of clouds’, is easily one of the most beautiful states in India. With its lush rainforests, high waterfalls, and crystal clear rivers, travelling to Meghalaya can be a truly enjoyable experience. Due to high species diversity and high level of endemism, the wildlife of Meghalaya has attracted the likes of research scholars and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the country.
First, let’s talk about floral diversity. Meghalaya harbours a large number of primitive flowering plants, prompting Takhtajan (1969) to call it ‘the Cradle of Flowering Plants’. Other than flowering plants, a wide variety of wild cultivable plants, orchids, vegetables and fruits are found in the natural forests of Meghalaya.
Meghalaya is endowed with an exuberant orchid flora, representing nearly 27% of the country’s orchid flora. For several centuries, orchids have been known for their attractive flowers and medicinal properties.
The development of medicinal plants in Meghalaya has a great scope of providing employment. Many medicinal plants are said to be endemic to Meghalaya. Some of them are Citrus latipes Tanaka, Osbeckia capitata Benth, Nepenthes khasiana Hk.f, etc.
Nevertheless, overexploitation and deforestation have led to the endangerment and even extinction of many plants endemic to Meghalaya. Plants such as Nymphaea pygmaea, Schleichera trijuga, Dendrobenthamia capitata, Sterculia are said the have gone extinct. Plants like the aforementioned Nepenthes khasiana and others like Ilex khasiana, Clematis apiculata, Ilex venulosa are the endangered endemic species.
Now, let us delve into the rich fauna of Meghalaya. The Clouded Leopard is the state animal of Meghalaya. Look, how majestic!
Others carnivores found here are Jungle cat, Golden Cat, Marbled Cat, Dhole or Indian Wild Dog and Indian Wolf.
Along with the Clouded Leopard, Hoolock, the only ape found in India and the Capped Langur are both highly endangered species found in the state. Reptiles such as the Bengal Monitor Lizard, Water Monitor Lizard and various snakes like the King Cobra, Indian Cobra, Indian Rock Python, Banded Krait, Vipers, Keelbacks, Vine snakes, Trinket snakes, Wolf snakes, Rat snakes, flying snakes are found in the State.
The state has a rich bird diversity as well. The Hill Myna is the state bird. Other birds include Long Billed Vulture, Tawny Fish Owl, Blyth’s Kingfisher, Grey Sibia, etc.
The Oriental White Backed Vulture, Slender-billed Vulture, and White-winged Duck make up the endangered bird species in Meghalaya.
Every year migratory flocks of Teals, Pintails, and Cormorant visit the State. The streams and rivers also support a considerable amount of wildlife. The Golden Mahseer, whose disappearance in other rivers and streams was caused by excessive fishing, silting of riverbeds and pollution of water can still be found in the river Umtrew.
That is it then, folks. We have reached the end of this blogpost. I hope this article has provided you with a brief overview of the flora and fauna of Meghalaya. Until next time!
Article written by Chhavi Sharma.
