Biodiversity & Conservation
Wetland ecosystem conservation at Chupi-Char
What We Are Doing?
We have launched the Chupi Char Wetland initiative to strengthen community-based conservation. This project involves training local fishermen in sustainable eco-tourism practices, restoring degraded wetlands using bio-engineering techniques, and establishing an interpretation center to raise awareness about the region’s rich biodiversity. By integrating livelihood development with ecological restoration, the initiative aims to create a model for sustainable wetland management that empowers local communities while protecting vital ecosystems for future generations.
Where We Are Doing This?
Chupi Char,Purbashali located in river bank of Ganga in Puba is a vital freshwater wetland known for its rich biodiversity, including over 100 migratory bird species and several endangered mammals. This location was strategically selected for conservation due to its ecological significance and urgent need for habitat protection, making it a priority site for biodiversity restoration efforts.
Why We Are Doing This?
The Chupi Char wetlands in West Bengal face serious threats from habitat loss, pollution, and human activity. Home to migratory birds and endangered species like the Fishing Cat, this ecosystem is crucial for biodiversity and local livelihoods. Our projects focus on implementing effective conservation strategies to safeguard these vital habitats.
Impact We Are Having:
In Chupi Char, active community involvement has grown, with local fishermen trained as birdwatching guides, boosting eco-tourism opportunities. Alongside, we’ve undertaken habitat restoration efforts to control invasive species and enhance biodiversity. These integrated actions are expected to create lasting positive impacts on the wetland ecosystem, promoting sustainable livelihoods while protecting wildlife. By aligning conservation with community welfare, we aim to establish a replicable model for eco-friendly development and long-term ecological resilience.
Habitat mapping of Invasive Pterygoplichthys sp. in South Bengal
What We Are Doing?
We are mapping the distribution of the invasive Suckermouth Catfish (Pterygoplichthys sp.) across freshwater wetlands in West Bengal using eDNA and ground surveys. Additionally, we are engaging multiple stakeholders to raise awareness and accelerate coordinated efforts for the species’ effective elimination and habitat protection.
Where We Are Doing This?
Our current work is focused in West Bengal, particularly across the districts of South Bengal. This region serves as the core area for our biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, and community-based ecological restoration initiatives.
Why We Are Doing This?
One major challenge in managing the Pterygoplichthys sp. invasion in West Bengal is low public awareness. As bottom-dwellers, these fish often go unnoticed. eDNA offers a cost-effective, sensitive, and non-invasive method to detect their presence early, enabling timely action to protect biodiversity and support effective conservation strategies.
Impact We Are Having:
So far, we have detected the presence of Suckermouth Catfish in several water bodies across West Bengal. Most local communities remain unaware of its negative impact on native fish populations and the local fish economy. However, ongoing detection and awareness efforts are gradually shifting perceptions and encouraging proactive responses.
Habitat mapping of Himalayan salamander in north east India
What We Are Doing?
We are targeting the Himalayan salamander through habitat preservation and innovative monitoring methods. Using eDNA technology, we conduct non-invasive biomonitoring to identify salamander habitats without disturbance. Alongside, we assess water and soil quality and engage local stakeholders to develop sustainable conservation strategies that protect both the species and its environment.
Where We Are Doing This?
The Darjeeling region hosts numerous small wetlands that provide critical habitats for the Himalayan Salamander. These high-altitude ecosystems are essential for the species’ survival, offering suitable breeding and foraging conditions. Our efforts focus on conserving these fragile habitats to ensure the long-term protection of this endangered amphibian.
Why We Are Doing This?
The Himalayan salamander faces serious threats from habitat loss, pollution, and human activities. As a vulnerable species, it is highly impacted by environmental changes and anthropogenic pressures. Our projects focus on implementing effective conservation strategies to protect these unique habitats and ensure the survival of this endangered amphibian.
Impact We Are Having:
Our conservation initiatives are showing promising progress. In the Himalayan Salamander project, extensive field surveys and stakeholder engagement have shaped effective conservation strategies. The use of eDNA monitoring has expanded our habitat coverage efficiently. Together, these efforts are driving sustainable practices that support both ecosystem health and community well-being.