Hilly Ecosystem of Pine Forest in Koraput- An Overview for Higher Faunal Diversity and their Conservation in Eastern –Ghats of Southern Odisha, India

Abstract

The hilly regions of Koraput district in Odisha, India, form a vital component of the Eastern Ghats, characterized by diverse topography, rich biodiversity, and ecologically significant forest systems. Among these, the pine forests predominantly composed of Pinus kesiya—hold exceptional ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic importance. This study investigates the composition, functions, and challenges associated with the pine forest ecosystem in Koraput, focusing on their role in soil conservation, water regulation, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity preservation. The local flora fauna is conserved through participatory management of the local VSS and SHG women committee through ecotourism income generation and helping in conservation of wildlife species. The maximum tree girth of pine trees found in sample plot is 4 ft 10 inches and tree height is between 76-85 feet tall the forest shelters to maximum 15 reptilian and 56 avifauna species in relation to 15 wild mammals. The important critically endangered amphibians like Sacreed grove frogs and Jeypore gecko which are Critically endangered by IUCN. The sloth bear and leopard are the scheduled –I species under WPA1972 present in the pine forests of Koraput region.