Assessing the impacts of urbanisation on Land use changes and Avian Fauna in Wetlands of Tamil Nadu, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59072/rper.vi74.793Abstract
Wetlands are vital ecosystems that sustain diverse biodiversity, offering crucial resources like water, food, and habitats for numerous species. However, rapid urbanization and associated human activities have led to significant wetland degradation and loss, particularly in Tamil Nadu, India. Their integration aids in maintaining the food chain and ecological balance. However, rapid urbanization and human activities are causing significant degradation and loss of wetland areas. This study uniquely integrates decade-long satellite-based LULC and NDVI analyses with migratory bird census data to reveal how urbanization, pollution, and land use changes have directly degraded the Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary’s wetland habitat and caused a sharp decline in bird populations. By precisely linking environmental changes to biodiversity loss, it provides novel, data-driven insights and practical conservation recommendations, offering a valuable model for wetland management and biodiversity protection in rapidly developing regions. The study employed Land Use Land Cover (LULC) analysis and satellite imagery to monitor changes in wetlands from 2013 to 2023. The findings of the present research indicated substantial reductions in vegetation cover and water quality due to industrial discharges, sewage, and agricultural runoff. These alterations have negatively impacted habitats, resulting in a decrease in migratory bird visits and overall biodiversity.
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