Biodiversity Study of Singanallur Tank

Key Facts and Data on Floristic Diversity Study of Singanallur Tank

1. Floral Record:

   • Total plant species documented: 574 (includes 121 new species).
   • Previous recorded flora: 453 species.
   • Study Duration: January 2023 - December 2024.

2. Published Research:

   • Title: Additions to the Flora of Singanallur Lake, An Urban Wetland From Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
   • Journal: Indian Forester.

3. Threatened Species Identified:

   • Hyophorbe lagenicaulis: Critically Endangered (IUCN).
   • Gossypium hirsutum: Vulnerable (IUCN).
   • Reutealis trisperma: Near Threatened (IUCN).

4. Endemic Species:

   • Notable endemics identified:
     • Dicliptera cuneata: Population of approximately 200 plants (found along the eastern bund).
     • Viscum subracemosum: Found on Pongamia pinnata.
     • Cordia diffusa (Kovai Manjack): 12 matured plants recorded along the bunds.

5. Categorization of Documented Plants:

   • Medicinal: 95 species (78% of total).
   • Edible: 26 species.
   • Ornamental: 14 species.
   • Fodder: 12 species.
   • Timber: 3 species.

6. Aquatic Flora:

   • Included three species, notably the common water hyacinth, indicating pollution and the entry of sewage.

7. Environmental Threats:

   • Decline in aquatic plant diversity due to:
     • Excessive commercial fishing.
     • Maintenance of high water levels.
   • Unscientific clearance and burning of vegetation leading to weed proliferation (notably parthenium).

8. Conservation Zone Designation:

   • Urban Biodiversity Conservation Zone: Declared by Coimbatore Corporation in 2017.

9. Constitutional and Environmental Significance:

   • The study highlights the importance of protecting biodiversity as per Article 48A of the Indian Constitution, which mandates the protection and improvement of the environment and safeguarding of forests and wildlife.

These findings underscore the necessity for conservation measures in urban wetlands like Singanallur tank to ensure the survival of diverse plant species and maintain ecological balance.