Paederia foetida

Family: Rubiaceae
Status : RET (Rare, Endangered and Threatened) in Odisha

The forest of musings

The Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) won the U.N.-India Biodiversity Governance award, instituted by the Government of India and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), for the best managed protected area of the country recently.

Padma Mahanti, IFS, who served as Deputy Director, PTR, was hugely responsible for initiating innovative concepts of eco-tourism and in following up effectively some of the programmes introduced at the PTR. Padma was member secretary of the Periyar Foundation. She won the Green Guard Anti-Poaching award in 2007.

Padma, who is now Regional Passport Officer in Odisha, recently released a book of poems titled Mist and Musings, which narrates in verse and interludes in prose the story of her life, experiences in Periyar.

In an e-mail interview Padma shares her memories of Periyar, her thoughts on wildlife management and more.

Excerpts from the interview.

What does Periyar mean to you?

Periyar was my first independent posting after my training at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). And it was love at first sight. The streams that came to life during monsoon fascinated me. I still dream of them. There’s a deep connect with Periyar.

Were you always a wildlife enthusiast or did Periyar transform you?

Wildlife interested me more than the other subjects of forest management. That’s why I went ahead to complete my post-graduate diploma in wildlife management in 2005. Periyar gave an opportunity to implement whatever I was trained for in the WII.

As a wildlife professional, and not as a poet, how do you evaluate your experience here?The job must have been challenging too?

Yes. You had to be on guard always. The problems were undefined. From human-wildlife conflict, safety of tourists, forest fire, poaching, sandal smuggling, pressure on forest land, to the issues of the forest dwellers dependent on the park management for their livelihood, each day was a challenge.

Looking back was it worth the effort?

We achieved a lot, but achievements are not always quantifiable. They are often special moments, endearing memories. And my tenure in Periyar was full of such instances. Yes, looking back it was satisfactory. Training local youth in tiger monitoring through the use of camera traps and GPS, reviving nature clubs, revisiting and modifying all eco-development committees with a plan for five years were some great initiatives.

The tourist is the subject of one of your poems. He can be a source of concern in a protected sanctuary. Were the tourists generally insensitive?

In the Periyar Tiger Reserve tourism was still low impact as it is carried out in about 2.5 sq. km area of the entire reserve. The rest is eco-tourism in its real sense. However, there used to be mindless jeep rides in parts of the tiger reserve by other agencies. I hope it has stopped now or at least regulated.

What steps would you suggest to balance this tourist-wildlife issue, especially in the wake of the new rules framed with regard to tiger sanctuaries?

In the present scenario tourism has to be used as a tool to unite voices for conservation. It should be low impact and responsible; nature friendly and totally guided. Vehicles should never be allowed inside protected areas except the buffer zone. Sensitisation classes should be arranged for tourists before they enter the tiger reserves. They should be made to realise that tourism inside the tiger reserves is a sensitive and responsible job.

The tribes were successfully integrated into the protection and conservation of the jungles. How do you view this move?

Periyar has six indigenous tribes, Mannans, Paliyans, Uralis, Malapandarams, Malayarians and Ulladans. Efforts like organising the Mannan and Paliyan fishermen into eco-development committees and regulation of fishing activities inside the park were taken up. They were trained in research, wildlife health monitoring; protection of park and in hospitality sector.

In Periyar all eco-tourism programmes are protection-oriented and each one was need based. My efforts were to explore linking of local economy like pepper cultivation in the tribal hamlets directly with the global market by weaning out middlemen. Periyar Foundation played a pivotal role in the experiment of pepper export by Vanchivayal tribal colony to Germany.

Poachers were also transformed ?

In 1998, a group of 22 cinnamon bark smugglers in Periyar, were transformed in mainstream society. In 2004, when I joined Periyar as the Additional Deputy Conservator of Forests efforts were on to transform a group of poachers from the neighbouring Theni District, in Tamil Nadu. I was lucky to be a part of this process from the very start. I took it forward by organising these people into an eco-development committee and making them a part of the Periyar Protection Force. This was India’s first trans-boundary initiative in eco-development.

How did Mist and Musings come about?

Writing was a way to escape from the depression I suffered following my father’s demise. It took me 18 months to bring out this book. I felt like I was reliving by life once again. The entire proceeds from the sale of this book will go to people protecting the jungles and to help conservation.

(The Hindu)

MIRACLES OF RAMAYANA FRUITS

Uma Nath

1)Soursop fruit ( Lakshman fruit)

    The flesh of the fruit consists of an edible, white pulp, some fiber, and a core of indigestible, black seeds. Sour soup an antioxidant fruit is rich in Vitamin C.

*The fleshy part of the fruit on application to any cut, accelerates the healing process.

*Sour soup is able to inhibit the risk of osteoporosis and helps in digestive process of our body.

*Sour soup is rich in dietary fibre.

             Soursop is the fruit of Annona muricata, a broadleaf, flowering, evergreen tree. The exact origin is unknown; it is native to the tropical regions of the Americas and is widely propagated.

2) Bullocks heart ( Ram fruit)

 Ramphal or Annona reticulata also known as bullock’s heart is originated from West Indies, Central and South America. However, It is naturalized in Southeast Asia, India, Taiwan, West Africa and Australia.

          Health benefits of Ramphals is quite fascinating. They are high in vitamin C, a nutrient that boosts the immune system, keeps skin healthy and assists with repairing wounds and cuts.

It has potassium, which helps the body regulate its electrolyte balance, enhance muscle growth, and improves the body’s ability to process waste.The leaves act as an insecticide, styptic, anti-helminthic, Anti ulcer  and, when applied externally, as a suppurant (or, aids in the elimination of pus). The ripe and unripe fruits combat dysentery; the bark is a potent astringent and vermifuge. In Ayurveda and Unani, leaves are used as an aphrodisiac and emmenagogue(stimulates menstruation).

3) Seetha fruit ( Custard Apple)

Custard apple, also known as Seetaphal in India, is a subtropical fruit belonging to the Annonacea family. The fruit grows on a small deciduous tree and is known by different names worldwide. The fruit is around 8 centimeters in diameter and has a sweet and delicious taste. The shape of the fruit may be lopsided, irregular, spherical, heart shaped, or round. It has a creamy and granular textured flesh, surrounded by seeds. The skin of the fruit is thin and tough, mostly black and green in colour. The fruit is native to West Indies, Central America, Peru and Mexico.

·         Helps To Gain Weight

·         Replenish energy

·         Fights cancer

·         Brain tonic

·         Strong dental care

·         Fights anaemia

·         Lower the risk of arthritis

·         Seed is an excellent hair wash

TAXONOMY, ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION OF DIOSCOREA SPECIES: A WILD TUBER CROP

Sanjeet Kumar

sanjeet.biotech@gmail.com

Dioscorea species is commonly known as Yam worldwide. It has diverse vernacular names. In Odisha, it is known as Ban Aalu. Most of species are edible but with bitter taste. Some species are non-edible too. Rural and tribal communities consume the edible species after boiling or after through processing. Sometimes they leave the tubers in running water for removing bitterness taste. They cook the tubers with main meal. They have medicinal values. Most of the species are used to check birth control and to cure skin infections by the tribal people of Odisha. Several species of this genus serve as staple crops in many parts of the world (Mabberley, 1997; Martin, 1974). In general, all of the principal yam species are frost-intolerant and vigor is affected at temperatures below 20°C. A temperature range of 25-35°C is common in the majority of the yam producing districts and Coursey (1967) suggests that the rate of growth of Dioscorea increases with an increase in temperature. Coursey (1967) does note that extremely high temperatures coupled with dry conditions are deleterious to the vigor and growth of the plant. The majority of yams, both wild and cultivated, are found in regions of the yam zone that receive anywhere from 1-3 m of rainfall annually (Al-Shehbaz and Schubert 1989, Coursey, 1967). The plant is documented to occur at altitudes between 200-1300 m (Wilkin, 2001). The “civilization of the yam,” or “the yam zone” as it has also been referred to, includes regions of West Africa extending from central Ivory Coast in the west to the Cameroon mountains on the eastern edge of the range and from the forested areas in the north to the more humid savannahs comprising portions of the southern perimeter of the region (Ayensu and Coursey, 1972).

Taxonomy of Dioscorea species

The genus Dioscorea, published in 1753 by Linnaeus (Genera Plantarum), was named after the Greek physician “Pedinios Dioscorides”, who was a medical officer in the Roman army at the time of Nero and authored the most comprehensive tome on herbal medicine of the time, De Materia Medica Libri quinque (Coursey, 1967). Dioscorea is in the family Dioscoreaceae, which is assigned to the order Dioscoreales. Recent molecular evidence suggests that two other families should be included in the order; the Burmanniceae and the Nartheciaceae (Caddick et al. 2002), both of which are represented in North America. The Burmanniaceae genera found in North America are: Apertia, Burmannia and Thismia. Apertia is represented by one species, A. aphylla, Burmannia by three; B. biflora, B. capiata and B. flava, and Thismia by one, T. Americana (Lewis, 2003). Apertia aphylla and the three Burmannia spp. occur in Florida (Wunderlin and Hansen, 2003).

The Nartheciaceae is represented by three genera in North America (Nathecium, Aletris and Lophiola) (Utech, 2003), the latter two of which occur in Florida. There are five Aletris species in the state (A. aurea, A. bracteata, A. obovata, A. lutea and A. farninosa and one Lophiola (L. aurea) (Wunderlin and Hansen, 2003).

Following the circumscription of Caddick et al. (2002), the family Dioscoreaceae includes 4 genera; Dioscorea, Trichopus, Tacca and Stenomeris, although molecular phylogenetic studies by Merckx et al. (2006) place Tacca as a sister to the tribe Thismieae of the Burmanniaceae. In the New World, only Dioscorea and Tacca are found. Tacca is represented by one South American species, T. parkeri. Dioscorea is by far the largest genus in the family, with the number of species estimated to be from 350-400 (Caddick et al. 2002) to 850 (Al-Shehbaz and Schubert 1989).

An early treatment of Dioscorea divided the genus into 4 sub-genera, which were further divided into 60 sections (Knuth, 1924). Using this classification, D. bulbifera was placed in the sub-genus Helmia, in section Opsophyton subsection Euopsophyton. Burkhill (1960) introduced an alternate classification of the Old World yams, but he did not use sub-genera. He recognized 23 sections of Dioscorea, including a redefined Opsophyton in which he placed D. bulbifera. The other invasive yam in Florida, D. alata (winged yam), was placed in the section Enantiophyllum (Knuth, 1924; Burkhill, 1960).

Based on anatomical characters, Ayensu (1972) recognized 30 sections of Dioscorea, including section Opsophyton in which D. bulbifera was placed (under sub-section Euopsophyton). Wilkin et al. (2005) indicated that the genus required a complete taxonomic revision, which should be based on DNA. He tentatively separated species into 8 clades based on sequences of two plastid genes. Dioscorea bulbilfera was placed in the ‘compound leaf’ clade (even though air potato does not have compound leaves), which also included three species from Thailand, two fromMadagascar and one from Malawi.

Wilkin et al. (2005) placed D. alata in the Enantiophyllum, as had previous classifications. Within the continental United States, two native Dioscorea are found; D. floridana and D. villosa, along with four exotic species; D. alata, D. bulbifera, D. polystachya (formerly D. oppositifolia) and D. sansibarensis. The latter species, which was only known from Miami-Dade Co. and one location in Collier Co., may now have been eradicated (Pemberton, pers. comm.). A seventh species, D. quaternata, was reported in the past (Al-Shehbaz and Schubert 1989; USDA, NRCS 2002; Wunderlin and Hansen, 2003) but has recently been synonymized with D. villosa (Raz, 2002).

Small pratincole

Ye Raaten,Ye Mosam, Nadi Ka Kinara, Ye Chanchal Hawa... Sitaron Ki Mehfil Ne Kar Ke Ishara, Kaha Ab To Sara Jaha Hai Tumhara.....

Mahanadi
2016
Status: LC
The most unusual feature of the pratincoles is that although classed as waders they typically hunt their insect prey on the wing like swallows, although they can also feed on the ground.

COMMON DOG BREEDS OF INDIA

UMA NATH

umaanalysis@yahoo.co.in 

Kerala 

1) INDIAN PARIAH DOG

The Indian Pariah Dog (also pye dog, pie dog, or pi dog) is the aboriginal landrace, or naturally selected "breed" of the Indian sub-continent. It is also called the Indian Native Dog and is nowadays referred to as the INDog by experts and enthusiasts. The term "pariah dog" is not derogatory in the canine context and refers to a class of primitive dogs of a specific appearance known as the "long-term pariah morph."

India's Pariah Dog, the dominant village and street breed, is thought to be a descendant of an early Chinese immigrant according to Peter Savolainen, a professor of evolutionary genetics at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm.[1] However the place of origin has not been determined so far.

 The Indian Native Dog (INDog) is an ancient autochthonous (landrace) type of dog that is found all over India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and even beyond South Asia. It was featured on National Geographic Channel's film, 'Search for the First Dog' along with the other related ancient types such as the Canaan Dog of Israel and the Australian Dingo. This is the original breed of the country, found free-living as a commensal of man all over the Indian subcontinent. Where not mixed with the blood of European dogs or other breeds and types, it is similar in appearance all across the entire country. The type represents one of the few remaining examples of mankind's original domestic dog and its physical features are the same as those of the dogs whose fossil remains have been found in various parts of the world, from very early remains in Israel and China to later ones such as those found in the volcanic lava at Pompeii, near Naples in Italy. In India these were the hunting partners and companion animals of the aboriginal peoples of India. They are still found with the aboriginal communities who live in forested areas. Since these dogs have never been selectively bred, their appearance, physical features and mental characteristics are created by the process of natural selection alone. The INDog has not been recognized by any kennel club although similarly ancient or 'primitive' dogs have been recognized such as the Azawakh and the Basenji both of which are also sighthound and Pariah. It has been recognized by the Primitive and Aboriginal Dog Society (PADS), a worldwide grouping of enthusiasIt is a medium sized dog of square to slightly rectangular build and short coat. The dog has a double coat, a coarse upper coat and a soft undercoat. The most commonly observed colours are brown, range from dark to reddish-brown, with or without white markings. Solid blacks are rare but some dogs are pied. Spotted, brindle and white are considered faults. Spots are seen in the undercoat of pied dogs. White markings at the ends of limbs and tip of tail are common. Red/fawn dogs frequently have dark muzzles. The jaws have a clean, scissor bite.

The head is medium sized, wedge shaped. The muzzle is pointed and is of equal or slightly greater length than the head. The neck is noble and the forequarters are erect. Hind quarters are minimally angled. The trot is short. The eyes are almond shaped and dark brown in colour. The ears are held erect and are pointed at the tips, with a broad base, set low on the head and the tail is curled and held high, when excited.

Adult Dogs: Height: 20 - 25 inches high at the withers Weight: 20 - 30 kilograms

Adult Bitches: Height: 18 - 23 inches at the withers Weight: 15 - 25 kilogramsts which is based in the USA.[2]

IN Dogs are found throughout the Indian subcontinent, often kept as pets in remote villages and many are ownerless scavengers found in cities. However the ones in large cities and towns are no longer pure indigenous dogs but are often mongrelized with modern breeds.

They are territorial to a particular area, though a certain amount of immigration occurs to maintain population levels and also for the purpose of mating. They are more active and engage in play during mornings and evenings. But during breeding season they become more aggressive during the evening and late night hours to prevent the stranger male dogs and also to protect the pups from other animals including humans. Territorial aggressions are common in free-ranging dogs mostly during breeding season (August to January). On some occasions some males enter into another’s territory for extra-group mating.[3]

The pariah group of dogs, including the INDog, breeds once a year. During the mating season the oestrous female may mate with several males. Most of the aggression from the alpha male is directed to the young males, but they are not driven away. When the young males fail in the mating competition, they disperse. As a result the pack size is maintained

2) MUDHOL HOUND

The Mudhol Hound is an Indian breed of dog of the sight hound type. The breed is also known as Caravan Hound and the feathered variety is commonly referred to as a Pashmi. In the villages he is known as the Karwani. It is a common companion amongst village folk in India's Deccan Plateau, who use the dog for hunting and guarding.

The Kennel Club of India (KCI) and Indian National Kennel Club (INKC) recognize the breed under different breed names. The KCI registers it as a Caravan Hound while the INKC goes with the name Mudhol Hound.

The Mudhol/Caravan of today has well-defined characteristics. The head is long and narrow, broad between the ears with a tapering muzzle. The jaws are long and powerful, with a scissors bite. The nose is large, and may be black, liver, or flesh coloured. The ears are medium sized, very slightly rounded at the tips, and hang close to the skull. The eyes are large and oval in shape, and may be dark or light in colour. The expression is a piercing gaze. The neck is long, clean, and muscular, and fits well into the shoulders. The forelegs are long, straight and well-boned. The males are 68–72 cm in height at the withers and the females are 64–68 cm tall. The back is long, broad and well-muscled. The loins are wide and deep. The chest is strong and deep with well sprung ribs. The abdomen is tucked in. The hind quarters appear wide and well-muscled. The tail is strong at the base, not too long, set low and carried in a natural curve. The gait is high-footed, flexing all four legs, but should not be hackneyed. There are two coat varieties—one with an entirely smooth coat and the other with silky featherings on the ears, legs, and tail. All colours and combinations of colours are acceptable.

 he breed is above all a working hound, capable of providing an excellent performance in the field on a consistent basis, under gruelling conditions that would be far to much for most other dogs. They are elegant, graceful and courageous. Its physical strength couples with great speed and plenty of stamina to allow it to catch and kill several types of game, from hare to blackbuck, over rough country. It is not an ideal dog for the apartment dweller, as it needs a great deal of space to exercise, although if arrangements are made to exercise the dog regularly in a sufficiently large, safely fenced area, it may do well in a flat or any other dwelling.

The breed, if treated with kindness and respect, can be exceptionally loyal. They are not very friendly, and do not like to be touched by strangers. However, a Caravan should never be aggressive, as this sort of temperament is not ideal for a hunting dog, which must tolerate other dogs and human beings, especially when they are not intruding on his territory. It makes a reasonable watch dog, and can protect that which he holds dear, should the need arise. He should always be treated in a kind, consistent, fair, and respectful manner, otherwise he may develop a nervous or vicious nature—either of which are difficult to live with.

2) CARAVAN

The Mudhol/Caravan is an ancient breed, native to the Deccan Plateau of western India. This region covers parts of the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and, to a lesser degree, Andhra Pradesh. The name, Karwani, endures to this day in the villages, but it was anglicized to Caravan Hound when the Kennel Club of India recognized the breed.

Many hound dog varieties like the Saluki and the Afghan Hound were brought by the Pathans, Arabs, Persians and Afghans when they came to India through the Khyber Pass. The Karwani is probably descended from these dogs. They followed their nomad masters in caravans from place to place, hence the name - Caravan Hound. It is said that the Afghans were given lands to act as a buffer between Aurangazeb's Deccan kingdom and the Maratha Empire, therefore the dogs are also found in the same area. They were bred for their functional qualities like the ability to withstand the harsh weather, hunting skills, speed and endurance, among others, rather than for aesthetic qualities.

In Karnataka, the breed is also known as the Mudhol Hound, after a small town in Bagalkot District. A former ruler of Mudhol, Sri Srimanth Raja Malojirao Gorphade (Maloji Rao Ghorpade), is said to have presented a pair of hound puppies to King George V of England. Upon inspecting these curiosities, the monarch found them true to sighthound conformation and dubbed them “the Hounds of Mudhol”.

It is found not only in Mudhol, but is widely kept throughout the Deccan; however, the Indian National Kennel Club uses the Mudhol Hound name.

3) COMBAI DOG

The Combai is usually tan or red brown with a black mask, and with a dark line along the back. The chief differences between the Rajapalayam and the Combai breeds are that the Combai has more powerful jaws, often with a black mouth, much more pendent ears, a more savage temper, and a tendency to be much more active than the rajapalayam. It is also slightly shorter than the Rajapalayam, but appears heavier because of its powerful build. Their coats are easily maintainable, and are less prone to skin disorders, fungal and yeast infections, and parasite infestation. The breed, having evolved naturally many centuries ago, is more immune to most diseases compared to the human-designed breeds.

  As a guard dog, the Combai is superior to the Rajapalayam. The Combai were used for hunting and keeping watch. Nowadays, these are mostly used as guard dogs in farm houses. Years ago they were used to guard people's cattle from tigers and leopards. A Combai is as intelligent and sensible a family dog as a German shepherd, and as ferocious as Rottweiler to intruders. It is an athletic and intelligent breed. Against the popular belief of its savage temper, the Combai is very alert, a good family dog, loves to play with children and enjoys human companionship. It clearly senses who is welcome and not. As an intelligent dog, the Combai strives to please its master and generally responds to the mood and command of its master from its infancy. It is difficult to find a purebred Combai now-a-days, as the importance of this dog has diminished.

In demanding circumstances, they can fight intruders (whether humans or animals) until death.

The Combai is a very ancient breed of dog, used in hunting as early as the 9th century B.C., when the Maravar kings held sway over South India. The Combai was used for hunting boar, bison and deer. Once available in large numbers throughout Southern India, the Combai is now restricted to certain parts of Tamil Nadu and to some special kennels.

4) CHIPPIPARAI

The Chippiparai is a sight hound breed of dog from the south of India. Thought to be a descendant of the Saluki, today it is found in the area around Periyar Lake. It is used primarily for hunting wild boar, deer and hare. It is also used for guarding the home. Bred by royal families in Chippiparai near Madurai district Tamil Nadu, it was kept as a symbol of royalty and dignity in tirunelveli and madurai rulers.

The typical color is a fawn, reddish brown, slight black tinged coat, silver-grey, with very limited or no white markings and long curved tail. Other colors, particularly variations of grey and fawn, also occur. This is a medium dog, around 25 inches at the withers.[1] It has a short coat that is very close; on the whole the coat if kept groomed has a shine on it. A shining, shell-like appearance is greatly desired. This kind of coat makes it ideal for hot climates. This hound is also less prone to ticks and fleas, with their short coat providing easy detection. The overall appearance is very similar to that of the Sloughi, or the Rampur Greyhound.

The Chippiparai is a robust animal needing little or no veterinary care. It does need lots of exercise, as it was and is a breed meant to hunt. Chippiparai is an intelligent breed and a wonderful watch dog. Contrary to the belief that it is a one -man dog, Chippiparai gets along well with people if it is properly socialized. Chippiparai loves human companionship and it hates to be in isolation. It is capable of great speed and can overtake a hare with ease.

The Chippiparai is a treat to watch and, when seen running, it is a breathtaking spectacle, almost floating through air. It is not a fussy eater, and eats to live and not vice versa. It is easy to groom and does not shed much due to its short coat length. The breed is rare in dog show circles and the blood line may be lost soon if steps are not taken to ensure its survival. It does not cost much in its native regions and with some attention and breeding programs the breed can be revived.

5) RAJAPALAYAM DOG

The Rajapalayam is an Indian Sighthound. It was the companion of the royalty and aristocracy in Southern India, particularly in the town Rajapalayam from where it gets its name.

t is a large dog, usually measuring about 65–75 cm (25–30 inches) at the withers. It is a hound, and therefore should be kept in optimum working condition. It tends to be heavier boned than most sighthounds, but shares the depth of chest and basic body structure.

Its facial structure is considerably different from that of a Caravan Hound, as it is meant primarily for hunting wild boar. The tail has a slight curl.

The most prized colour is milk white, with a pink nose and golden eyes. However, other colours including spotted or solid, black, and brown, are known to occur. The spots will start showing up by 80 days from birth. In the past, puppies of colour were usually culled from the litters since the owners preferred the pure white dogs. The coat is short and fine. An extremely handsome and graceful dog, the Rajapalayam has a gait similar to the trotting of a thoroughbred horse. As with many fully white dogs, there is a high incidence of deafness in this breed. Puppies born with whitish or blue eyes are deaf. Many Rajapalayam dogs suffer from mange, though this is usually not a serious problem. Though the breed dates back a few centuries, the creators of the breed unwittingly ended up fashioning an albino dog, characterized by the pink nose and the lack of pigmentation.

The Rajapalayam was used predominantly for hunting wild boar and as a formidable guard dog. It needs wide open spaces and is very affectionate and devoted towards its owner, although not always demonstrative.They do not usually like to be touched or handled by strangers and are known to be one-man dogs. Most specimens are aggressive and hostile towards strangers, and will attack intruders. Socialization in puppyhood is important. Rajapalayams usually do not get along well with other pets like cats, owing to their strong hunting instincts.

Rajapalayam hounds were primarily bred and used by Nayak dynasty of Tamil Nadu, it is speculated by some researchers that the Rajapalayam may have been one of the dogs used in the breeding of the modern Dalmatian.[dubious – discuss] The Rajapalayam dog was used during the Carnatic Wars and Polygar War to attack the British cavalry in battle as Rajapalayams were very fast,strong and aggressive in attacking the opponents. It is also believed that once 4 Rajapalayams saved the life of their master fighting against a tiger and killing it bravely many years before near forest in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. They are largely used to guard the rice fields,houses and farms. Since last two decades Indian Army started using them as guard dogs to support the army in the borders of Kashmir. The pure Rajapalayam is more or less extinct, and only a few are to be found in isolated pockets around southern Tamil Nadu. The breed may vanish all together if efforts are not initiated soon to revive it. A dog breeding unit was established at Saidapet, Chennai, during 1980–81. This unit primarily rears native breeds like the Rajapalayam, Combai, kanni, and Chippiparai [1]. To create awareness and encourage dog lovers to rear native breeds, the Animal Husbandry Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu participates in dog show. Localities have established a cooperative and interested families are given female dogs and expertise that is required for large-scale breeding. The Indian Postal Department has brought out postage stamps on the Rajapalayam, as well as the Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, and the Himalayan Sheepdog. The Kennel Club of India has taken up the cause of the Rajapalayam. With the club's cooperation, the "Save the Rajapalayam Project" has been launched.

6) RAMPUR GREY HOUND

The Rampur Greyhound is a breed of dogs native to the Rampur region of Northern India, which lies between Delhi and Bareilly. The Rampur hound is a member of the big sighthound family. In North West of India it is often described as a smooth haired sighthound, substantially built. It was the favored hound of the Maharajahs for jackal control, but was also used to hunt lions, tigers, leopards, and panthers. It was considered a test of courage for a single hound to take down a golden jackal. The Rampur is built to cover great distances at high speed; thus capable of great endurance.

The length from the withers to the base of the tail is about 36 inches, the chest is deep in front but not very wide with well sprung ribs. The tail is long and tapering slightly curving upwards and carried low; it is about 24"–27" in length. The circumference of the neck is about 12 inches and its long arched and muscular and rather broad where it joins the body. The length of the jaw is 9 inches and are powerful with a scissor bite. The males measure 60–75 cm (24–30 in) in height. The females measure 55-60 cm (22–24 in) in height. They weigh about 27–30 kg (60–65 lb).

They are approximately greyhound size, but much wider and more muscular, similar to the Rhodesian Ridgeback.The head of the Rampur is broader and more substantial than the head of the English Greyhound. It has a flat skull and a pointed nose. It also has a characteristic roman bend. Some other unique characteristics are their Roman nose, ears set high, pendant style, and of most interest, their "hare" feet. The Rampur's foot is a large "hare" shape, with heavy webbing. Their toes are very articulated and flexible, even able to bend backwards a bit. They are not unlike our own fingers in many ways. This maneuverability helps to give them a cat-like balance, able to walk on ledges, or to calmly clear a six foot fence. Colors are mouse-gray, grizzle, brindle, parti-colour or most rare, black. Black however is the most sought after. Eye color ranges from yellow to a golden brown. A word about the gray and grizzle color. These two colors have the ability to blend completely with the foliage of the forest, so much so that when the hound is still, you may not see them from a distance of as little as ten feet, in broad daylight. Its bite is extremely powerful.

4) KANNI

The Kanni, which means maiden, is a rare indigenous South Indian dog breedfound in the state of Tamil Nadu. The breed is a further extension of the Caravan or Mudhol Hound, and is also a descendant of the Saluki. It is used mainly forhunting.

The Kanni is found in and around Tirunelveli, Pollachi, Kovilpatti, Kazhugumalai, Kileral, Kodangipatti, Sivakasi, and Madurai. It is said that the name Kanni ( which means Unmarried Girl) comes from the fact that the dog used to be given as a gift to the bridegroom just before the marriage. In fact, it was in the list of dowry items offered to the groom. They are usually of four colours, brown, cream, black & tan and brindle. The Kanni is kept by families who do not sell them but may gift them if a promise is made to look after them well. They are not allowed to roam on the streets and brought up as pet animals. They are given a diet of milk in the morning, corn porridge in the afternoon and a "Ragi" porridge in the evening. Meat is given once a week or once a month only. The breed is now extremely rare, and on the verge of extinction. Efforts to revive the breed have not been taken up, as specimens are few, and there exists little information about them.

Great Thick-knee: A Near Threatened Bird of Mahanadi

Esacus recurvirostris
Upturn black and yellow bill, and white forehead and Saectacles.
This species prefers gravel banks along rivers or large lakes, and also beaches. A single egg is laid in a bare scrape on the open shingle.The great thick-knee eats crabs, large insects, and other animal prey.

Major Biodiversity of Poovar beach along the Neyaar River: a tourism destination of Kerala

Padma Mahanti

1.        Department of Environment and Climate Change, Trivandrum-695024, Kerala
Email: padma.mahanti@gmail.com

Abstract

The biodiversity of brackish water (BW) is always showing the virginity in the exploration of flora and fauna. BW is also the harbor of many medicinal plants, avifauna and other taxa. Due to salinity, plants develop the defense mechanisms by synthesizing some secondary metabolites which show the medicinal potential for the human beings. During a weekend visit along the Neyaar River, we could identify many beneficial indicators of rich biodiversity near Poovar beach. It is a prime tourist destination near the capital of the state of Kerala. A cursory observation revealed that the most prominent flora are Cerbera odollam, Barringtonia racemosa, Cocos nucifera etc and most visible avifauna are Haliastur indus, Corvus splendens, Bubulcus ibis, Ardeola grayii etc. It was also observed that the place is a prime tourist destination of the Capital of said state and the movement of the water boat have been disturbing the balance of the ecosystem. The present study highlights the importance of the area as rich biodiversity spot and recommends the needed action for the conservation of BW ecosystems. 

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis

Family: Verbenaceae 
it is usually found along country roadsides and it grows also well as a ruderal plant on disturbed terrain. It is an invasive species in some places.The fresh leaves are consumed in bush tea as a “cooling” tonic and blood cleanser, to treat “asthma” and “ulcerated stomachs.

Hemidesmus indicus

Family: Asclepiadoideae 
The stem and branches of H. indicus twine anticlockwise, and are profusely laticiferous, elongate, narrow, teret and wiry of deep purple or purplish brown colour with the surface slightly ridged at the nodes. Roots are woody, slender and aromatic. Roots smell similar to camphor, hence the plant is also known as Kapoori. 
The extracts from the root are used as a coolant and a blood-purifier and also used in many other forms, especially as refreshing syrup with sugar and a dash of lemon (Sharbat), and served at most small refreshment shops in South India.

Argemone mexicana

Family: Papaveraceae

An extremely hardy pioneer plant, it is tolerant of drought and poor soil, often being the only cover on new road cuttings or verges. It has bright yellow latex, and though poisonous to grazing animals, is rarely eaten.

Seeds contain 22–36% of a pale yellow non-edible oil, called argemone oil or katkar oil, which contains the toxic alkaloids sanguinarine and dihydrosanguinarine. The last major outbreak in India occurred in 1998. 1% adulteration of mustard oil by argemone oil has been shown to cause clinical disease. in India, Argemone oil is mixed with sunflower oil and sesame oil to increase the quantity, but this adulteration causes health disorders and renowned brands display "no argemone oil" to qualify purity. Argemone mexicana may be a suitable first-aid treatment in rural areas when access to other better antimalarials is delayed.

Celastrus paniculatus

Family: Celastraceae
Local Name: Pengu
Deciduous vine with stems up to 10 cm (3.9 in) in diameter and 6 m (20 ft) long with rough, pale brown exfoliating bark covered densely with small, elongated lenticles. The leaves are simple, broad, and oval, obovate or elliptic in shape, with toothed margins.
The plant, which is widely known as the “intellect tree,” is used to both sharpen mental focus and relax the nerves. elastrus paniculatus seeds can also reduce cholesterol.

Costus speciosus

Family: Costaceae
Local: Kaukauka
Cheilocostus speciosus differs from the common ginger by having only one row of spirally arranged leaves. The species reproduces vegetatively by rhizome, and birds disperse the seeds when they feed on the fruits. The habitat where this species is found is roadside ditches and low-lying areas in the forest. The flowering season starts after the rainy season, from October to December.The plant has many historical uses in Ayurveda, where the rhizome has been used to treat fever, rash, asthma, bronchitis, and intestinal worms. It is mentioned in the Kama Sutra as an ingredient in a cosmetic to be used on the eyelashes to increase sexual attractiveness.

Periyar Tiger Reserve to use cameras to monitor tigers: An initiative-Padma Mahanti

Periyar Tiger Reserve to use cameras to monitor tigers

Taallakkadav (Kerala) (PTI): The Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) has decided to monitor tigers by cameras to identify animals, their home range and their stripe patterns.

The Scientific Monitoring of Tigers exercise is likely to commence at the reserve that houses about 35 tigers, in January.

 

“About 40 cameras in pairs of two each would be set up in four sq km grid to ‘trap’ the animals. The entire 777 square km of the reserve would be covered within four to five months time,” PTR Deputy Director, Padma Mahanti, told PTI.

 

Seventeen tribals and two local youths have been trained to operate the cameras and help the forest officials in the exercise, she said.

 

“It would help in identifying the individual tigers, their home range and their stripe patterns. The cameras would be shifted every 15 days. Tribals and locals along with forest officials would monitor the activities of the animals after the traps are set,” Mahanti added.

 

The reports compiled would be submitted to the field directorate which in turn would send it to the National Tiger Conservation Directorate at New Delhi for records.

 

Presently monitoring of tigers is done by collecting its pug marks with the help of plaster casts.

 

“Scratches of claw marks on trees, tiger calls, direct sighting and kills made by the animal are also recorded. All the information are passed through wireless network to the central pooling system of the PTR,” Mahanti said.

 

News Update Service

Monday, December 24, 2007 : 1140 Hrs

 

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/004200712241140.htm

 

http://bigcatrescue.org