Myristica Swamp Forest

In September 2024, a new Myristica swamp forest was uncovered in Kumbral, a village near the Goa-Maharashtra border, highlighting the area's unique ecological value.

Key Points:

Endangered Species: The forest, featuring the endangered Myristica magnifica, is only the second of its kind in Maharashtra, with the first being in Hewale-Bambarde, Sindhudurg district.
Sacred Grove: This swamp forest is part of a sacred grove, protected by the local community for centuries in reverence to Lord Shiva, known locally as Bhalandeshwar.
Biodiversity: The 8,200 sqm sacred grove contains 39 plant species, with 770 sqm occupied by the Myristica swamp forest. The area is crucial for species such as hornbills and the vulnerable Asian short-clawed otter.
Ecosystem Services: The swamp forest provides essential services like groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration, flood mitigation, and habitat and food sources for various species.
Regional Importance: The new discovery adds to the understanding of the ecological history of the northern Western Ghats of India, specifically the Tillari river basin.