NAME- ARITRA SANTRA. ROLL-2958/22 COURSE-BBE (2"° SEMESTER). SUBJECT-ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES. TOPIC-DIFFERENTIATION OF NATURAL AND MANAGED ECOSYSTEM USING GOOGLE EARTH MAP.INTRODUCTION: What is Ecosystem? An ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of ecology where the living organisms interact with each other and the surrounding environment. In other words, an ecosystem is a chain of interactions between organisms and their environment. The term “Ecosystem” was first coined by A.G.Tansley, an English botanist, in 1935. TYPES OF ECOSYSTEM. 1)Natural Ecosystem.2) Managed Ecosystem. Natural ecosystem Managed Ecosystem A natural ecosystem is an interaction between the environment and the organisms living in the environment. It occurs naturally in nature and requires no human activity for its functioning Itis a human-made ecosystem with biotic and abiotic components, and also involves some technology. Consists of many species of plants and animals Species diversity is low Genetic diversity is very high Genetic diversity is very low Sunlight is the energy source for plants and this energy drives all biological cycles Sunlight is the ultimate energy source for plants but artificial fertilizers and other nutrients are externally supplied to the soil Food chains are long and complex Food chains are simple and often incomplete as other species are killed as pests or weeds Ecological succession takes place over time No ecological succession Natural nutrient cycling Incomplete nutrient cycling Naturally sustainable Unsustainable as most fertilizers are made from non-renewable fossil fuels, and they add to water pollution, biomagnification and other ecological disturbance Define GOOGLE EARTH. Google Earth is a web-based mapping and virtual globe application developed by Google. It provides users with a detailed and interactive view of the Earth's surface, allowing them to explore various locations from different perspectives. Google Earth combines satellite imagery, aerial photography, and 3D terraindata to create a comprehensive representation of the planet. The application offers a range of features and tools that enable users to navigate and explore the Earth. Users can zoom in and out, tilt the view, and rotate the map to examine specific areas in detail. Google Earth also allows users to search for specific locations, addresses, landmarks, or coordinates, making it easy to find and view any place on the planet. Principle behind GOOGLE EARTH. The principle behind Google Earth is to provide users with a digital representation of the Earth's surface by combining various data sources and technologies. 1.Satellite Imagery: Google Earth incorporates high-resolution satellite imagery that is captured by satellites orbiting the Earth. These images provide a detailed view of the Earth's surface, including landscapes, cities, and landmarks. 2.Aerial Photography: In addition to satellite imagery, Google Earth also includes aerial photography taken from aircraft. This photography offers a mor detailed and up-close view of certain areas, especially urban environments. 3.30 Terrain and Models: Google Earth utilizes 3D modelling techniques to represent the Earth's terrain and structures. This allows users to view landscapes, mountains, and buildings in three dimensions, providing a more immersive and realistic experience. 4,Geographic Information System (GIS) Data: Google Earth integrates various GIS data, including geographical and topographical information, road networks, landmarks, and other geographic features. This data is layered on top of the satellite imagery and 3D models, enriching the user experience and providing additional context. 5.Data Visualization: Google Earth allows users to visualize and explore various data layers, such as weather patterns, demographic information, and historical imagery. These data layers can be toggled on and off to provide different perspectives and insights about specific locations. 6.User Interaction and Navigation: Google Earth provides a user-friendly interface that enables users to navigate, zoom in and out, and tilt the view ofthe Earth. Users can search for specific locations, obtain driving directions, measure distances, and access additional information about points of interest. AREA CHOSEN-Eastern Ghats. The Eastern Ghats are a discontinuous range of mountains along India's easter coast. The Eastern Ghats pass through Odisha, Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu in the south passing some parts of Karnataka as well as Telengana. They are eroded and cut through by four major rivers of peninsular India, viz., Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. Deomali with 1762 m height is the tallest point in Odisha. Seethamma Konda with 1690 m is the highest point in Andhra Pradesh, and the Eastern Ghats. BR hill range located in Karnataka is the tallest hill range in Eastem Ghats with many peaks above 1500 m height. Its Characteristics: Here are some of the characteristics of the Eastern Ghats: 1)Location: The Eastern Ghats span across several states in eastern India, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. They extend from the northern part of Odisha to the southernmost tip of Tamil Nadu. 2)Topography: The Eastern Ghats consist of a series of discontinuous hills and low-lying plateaus. Unlike the Western Ghats on the western coast of India, the Eastern Ghats are not as high or continuous. The average elevation ranges between 600 to 900 meters, although some peaks may reach higher altitudes. 3)Biodiversity: The Eastern Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity and serve as an important ecological hotspot. The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, including many endemic species. The forests in the Eastern Ghats support a wide range of wildlife, such as elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, reptiles, and various bird species. 4)Rivers and Waterfalls: Numerous rivers originate in the Eastern Ghats and flow through the surrounding plains. Some of the prominent rivers include the Godavari, Krishna, Mahanadi, and Cauvery. The Eastern Ghats also feature several waterfalls, including the famous Dudhsagar Falls in Goa and the Kiliyur Falls in Tamil Nadu. 5)Cultural Significance: The Eastern Ghats have significant cultural and historical importance. Several ancient temples, forts, and pilgrimage sites are located in the region. The hill towns of Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh and Yercaud in Tamil Nadu are popular tourist destinations.6)Tribal Communities: The Eastern Ghats are inhabited by various tribal communities who have a unique culture and lifestyle. These tribal communities have a deep connection with the forests and rely on them for their livelihoods. 7)Natural Resources: The Eastern Ghats are rich in mineral resources such as bauxite, limestone, manganese, and granite. These resources play a crucial role in the local economy and are a subject of both economic development and environmental concerns. 8)Climatic Conditions: The Eastern Ghats experience a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region receives significant rainfall during the monsoon season, which contributes to the lush vegetation and supports agricultural activities. Overall, the Eastern Ghats offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ecological importance, making them a significant part of India's landscape. OBSERVATIONS: TYPES OF FLORA AND FAUNA. FLORA: 1)Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests: These forests are dominated by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season. Common tree species include teak, sal, mahua, axlewood, and tendu. 2)Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests: These forests receive more rainfall and have a higher tree density. Species like Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood), Terminalia, Shorea robusta (sal), and Albizia are found here.3)Semi-Evergreen Forests: These forests retain their green foliage throughout the year but experience seasonal variations. Some common tree species are Dipterocarpus indicus, Hopea parviflora, and Lagerstroemia. 4)Tropical Thorn Forests: In areas with less rainfall, thorny and drought- resistant species like Acacia, Prosopis, and Ziziphus dominate. 5)Riparian Vegetation: Found along riverbanks, it includes plants like Bamboo, Arundinella, and Saccharum. 6)Grasslands: In some areas, you can find open grasslands with species like Imperata cylindrica (cogon grass) and Ischaemum indicum. 7)Mangroves: In coastal regions, especially in parts of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, mangroves like Avicennia and Rhizophora thrive in the brackish waters. Fauna: Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus): The Eastern Ghats provide habitat for a significant population of elephants. Indian Bison (Bos gaurus), also known as Gaur: These are the largest species of wild cattle found in the region. Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca): A variety of leopard that roams the forests. Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris): Though their numbers are limited, some areas in the Eastern Ghats are home to tigers. Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata): A unique mammal that feeds on ants and termites and is often threatened by poaching. Grey Slender Loris (Loris lydekkerianus): A small, nocturnal primate. Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica): A large tree-dwelling squirrel Many species of deer: Including the Sambar Deer, Chital, and Mouse Deer. Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus): A colorful bird famous for its striking plumage. Endemic species: The Eastern Ghats are also home to various endemic species of amphibians, reptiles, and birds. HUMAN HABITATION:The Eastern Ghats is a mountain range that stretches along the eastern coast of India. While the Western Ghats are more prominent and well-known, the Eastern Ghats also have areas of human habitation. The Eastern Ghats cover various states in India, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. These regions are home to several indigenous communities and local tribes who have traditionally inhabited the Eastern Ghats for centuries. The tribal communities in the Eastern Ghats have a deep connection with the land and are largely dependent on agriculture, forest resources, and livestock rearing for their livelihoods. They practice traditional farming techniques, grow crops like millets, pulses, and oilseeds, and engage in hunting and gathering activities. Several towns and villages are scattered throughout the Eastern Ghats, with a significant population residing in these areas. These settlements serve as administrative centres, trading hubs, and agricultural communities. People living in these regions have adapted to the terrain and climate of the Eastern Ghats, utilizing the available resources for sustenance and economic activities. Additionally, there are also some urban areas and cities located in the Eastern Ghats. Vishakhapatnam and Vizianagaram in Andhra Pradesh, and Koraput in Odisha are examples of urban centres located within or near the Eastern Ghats. These cities provide infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to the surrounding regions. While the population density in the Eastern Ghats is generally lower compared to other parts of India, there are still pockets of human habitation and thriving communities in this mountain range. These areas have their unique cultural practices, traditions, and lifestyles influenced by the geography and ecology of the Eastern Ghats. FLORA PICTURES:FAUNA PICTURES:CONCLUSION: Measures should be taken to protect endemism, rarity, endangered species; species which are or may become threatened with extinction and centres of the evolution of domesticated species, are critical for maintaining the range and pace of evolution and speciation. Conservation of their eco-systems like wildlife Corridors, specialised ecosystems, and special breeding site/area, areas with intrinsically low resilience, sacred groves and frontier forests etc. is also very important. Geomorphological conditions which are known to have substantial effect on eco-systems at large include uninhabited islands in the sea, steep slopes, origins or rivers which are also to be conserved. There is a need for concerted and macro-level conservation movement by the involvement of all stakeholders especially the public. Collectivizing or binding all individuals and civil society groups into a network will bring much focus and strength to the cause.