Dibru-Saikhowa National Park Faces Grassland Loss, Invasive Species Threats, and Wildlife Challenges

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The riverine ecosystem of Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (DSNP) in eastern Assam is experiencing major ecological changes. A new study highlights that both native plants and invasive species are reshaping its grassland landscapes. Known as India’s only home to feral horses and a vital biodiversity hotspot, DSNP now faces threats that could endanger several endemic and rare species.

About Dibru-Saikhowa National Park

DSNP was created by merging the Dibru and Saikhowa Reserve Forests. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1995 and later elevated to national park status in 1999. Covering around 425 sq. km, the park lies between the Brahmaputra and Dibru rivers. Recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997, the park supports diverse habitats including grasslands, semi-evergreen forests, and wetlands, which shelter unique species of flora and fauna.

Vegetation Shift Over Two Decades

Researchers examined land use and land cover (LULC) changes between 1999 and 2024 using remote sensing and GIS tools. Findings reveal that while grasslands covered 28.78% of the park in 2000, their extent has drastically reduced since then. Shrublands and degraded forests have taken over these open areas. By 2024, degraded forests spread across 23.47%, a sharp rise from 10.87 sq km in 2013. The decline of grasslands signals shrinking habitats for species that rely on open landscapes.

Role Of Native And Invasive Plants

The spread of native tree species like Bombax ceiba (Simalu) and Lagerstroemia speciosa (Ajar) is altering grassland ecosystems in a way similar to invasive plants. Non-native species such as Chromolaena odorata, Ageratum conyzoides, Parthenium hysterophorus, and Mikania micrantha further accelerate this change. Together, these species reduce grassland cover and modify the park’s vegetation structure, impacting species survival.

Consequences For Wildlife

The rapid decline of grasslands poses a serious risk to wildlife such as the Bengal florican, swamp grass babbler, and hog deer, which depend on open habitats for foraging and breeding. The park is also home to nearly 200 feral horses, descendants of horses left behind during World War II. Continued habitat loss could threaten their population. In addition, forest degradation diminishes biodiversity and weakens carbon sequestration capacity, aggravating the effects of climate change.

Human And Natural Pressures

Apart from vegetation changes, human activities from forest villages located inside the park add stress to the ecosystem. Seasonal flooding of the Brahmaputra River also influences landscape transformation, making conservation more challenging. The combination of anthropogenic and natural pressures is accelerating habitat degradation.

Conservation Measures Suggested

The study recommends a grassland restoration programme, focusing on:

• Removing invasive species and controlling the spread of native encroachers.

• Strengthening park surveillance and deploying more staff.

• Relocating forest villages to minimise human disturbance.

• Promoting community-led conservation initiatives.

Using scientific land-use management, the park can safeguard critical habitats and improve the survival prospects of its native species.

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