Why in News?
A recent study using ancient Marathi literature and oral traditions establishes that savannas in western Maharashtra are ancient, natural ecosystems, existing for 700–750 years, and not degraded forests.
Description:
Core Findings:
- Literary evidence (13th–20th century CE) shows dominance of savanna species, not forest species.
- 27 savanna indicators vs only 3 forest indicators identified.
- Savannas existed prior to colonial timber extraction, disproving degradation theory.
- Misclassification has led to ecologically harmful afforestation.
Savanna Biome – Key Ecological Features:
- Vegetation: Grasses with scattered, drought-resistant trees.
- Climate: Seasonal rainfall; pronounced dry season or seasonal drought.
- Rainfall range (Maharashtra): Fine-leaf savannas → up to ~1000 mm, Broadleaf savannas → ≥700 mm
- Adaptations: Thick bark, Spines, Resprouting ability, Clonal growth
- Ecological drivers: Periodic fire, Grazing by herbivores
- Canopy: Naturally open (not a sign of degradation).
Indicative Savanna Species (Examples):
- Trees/Shrubs: Hivara, Babhul, Khaira, Palas
- Grasses: Sehima nervosum
Significance:
- Savannas are distinct biomes, not failed forests.
- Tree plantation in savannas can reduce native biodiversity.
- Conservation must maintain grass–tree balance, fire, and grazing regimes.
- Highlights value of historical ecology & indigenous knowledge.
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2025 preparation.
FOLLOW US ON:
◉ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CivilsPrepTeam
◉ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaExcellenceIAS
◉ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laexcellenceiasacademy/
GET IN TOUCH:
Contact us at info@laex.in, https://laex.in/contact-us/
or Call us @ +91 9052 29 2929, +91 9052 99 2929, +91 9154 24 2140
OUR BRANCHES:
Head Office: H No: 1-10-225A, Beside AEVA Fertility Center, Ashok Nagar Extension, VV Giri Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Hyderabad, 500020
Madhapur: Flat no: 301, survey no 58-60, Guttala begumpet Madhapur metro pillar: 1524, Rangareddy Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
Bangalore: Plot No: 99, 2nd floor, 80 Feet Road, Beside Poorvika Mobiles, Chandra Layout, Attiguppe, Near Vijaya Nagara, Bengaluru, 560040