Himalayan Ecosystems

About

The Himalayan ecosystems encompass a vast array of diverse environments, ranging from tropical rainforests at the base to alpine meadows and permanent ice at the highest elevations. This diversity supports a wide variety of plant and animal species. The region includes lowland forests, such as the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands, which are home to species like the Indian rhinoceros. As elevation increases, coniferous forests dominate, providing habitat for animals like the red panda and musk deer. Higher up, alpine shrublands and meadows support unique flora and fauna, including the snow leopard. The Eastern Himalayas are particularly rich in biodiversity, with over 7,500 species of flowering plants and numerous endemic species. Climate change poses significant threats to these ecosystems, affecting water resources, biodiversity, and local communities. Efforts to protect and adapt these ecosystems are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human well-being in the region.