Myristica Swamps

November 22, 2023

Myristica swamps, a rare and archaic forest ecosystem largely confined to Kulathupuzha and Anchal forest ranges in Kollam, Kerala, is facing slow and steady degradation due to multiple factors including man-myristica conflict.
Myristica swamps are called live fossils, a biodiversity hotspot dominated by evergreen trees belonging to Myristicaceae family, one of the oldest flowering plants on earth.
Since they are habitats with a relic status dating back to primordial times, the swamps have great conservation value.
These are a type of freshwater swamp forest predominantly composed of species of Myristica.
This species has stilt roots, or knee roots that pop up above the water level to breathe creating a varied habitat for many life forms.
The swamps are naturally patchy habitats with a high number of endemic species.
The swamps are partially inundated for several months a year.
In India, these habitats are found in Western Ghats and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Threats- climate change and the drying up of water bodies.
There is a need to regulate water harvesting from hill streams to sustain the swamps.
- Experts recommend different strategies that include minimising anthropogenic disturbance, regulating visitors, preventing the invasion of non-swampy species and maintaining the hydrological balance of the habitat.