Assessment of bio diversity conservation using geospatial models

Abstract

Landscape changes as well as the distribution of biodiversity are phenomena with strong spatial correlates. Since India is identified as one of the 12-mega biodiversity countries in the world, this task is of great significance. In this respect the Biodiveristy Characterization at Landscape Level for India is a milestone in biodiversity study. A spatial model incorporating ground based biodiversity attributes of the landscape elements, land use change patterns, disturbance regimes of the landscape and terrain complexity have been used to delineate the spatial pattern of biological richness. Recent developments in remote-sensing (RS) technology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Multicriteria Spatial Decision Support System (MC-SDSS) allow the use of a landscape ecology and spatial analysis approach to the problem of deforestation and biodiversity conservation in India. It includes analyses of land-cover and land use change; estimation of deforestation rates and rates of forest fragmentation; modelling of deforestation (GEOMOD2); analysis of the consequences of land-cover and land-use change in the form of climate change and change in distribution of biodiversity; gap analysis of the effectiveness of the protected area network in conserving areas of importance for biodiversity conservation; and conservation planning. The study highlighted the usefulness of geospatial approach for decision making and implementation of biodiversity conservation and thereby to achieve sustainable development of natural resources. This approach will facilitate conservation prioritization, systematic inventory and continuous monitoring.