Myristica Swamps

Why in News?

A recent paper published in Current Science has highlighted the ecological significance and increasing threats to the rare Myristica swamps found in the Western Ghats, particularly in Kulathupuzha, Kerala. These unique freshwater swamp forests are facing threats from logging and conversion into paddy fields, tea plantations, areca nut, oil palm and teak plantations.

About Myristica Swamps

Myristica swamps are rare freshwater swamp ecosystems that occur in waterlogged areas of the Western Ghats and are dependent on monsoon rainfall and seasonal flooding. They are named after the Myristicaceae or wild nutmeg family, which is an important component of the vegetation in these swamps. The ecosystem is considered one of the most primitive ecosystems in India and is characterised by specialised roots such as pneumatophores, which grow vertically above waterlogged soil to facilitate gas exchange, and stilt roots, which provide support in saturated conditions.

These swamps play an important role in regulating floods, recharging groundwater and maintaining perennial freshwater flows, while also supporting rich biodiversity. Important plant species include Gymnacranthera canarica, classified as Vulnerable, and Semecarpus kathalekanensis, classified as Critically Endangered. The associated fauna includes the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar pit viper and hornbills. Although members of the Myristicaceae family are distributed globally, the distinctive Myristica swamp-forest ecosystem is particularly unique to India.

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