PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Ramnagar
In February, the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR), in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), will collect water samples from Ramganga and Kosi rivers for analysis using the advanced e-DNA (environmental DNA) technique. This modern scientific method will provide accurate information not only about terrestrial wildlife but also about aquatic species and their current status.
The CTR director, Saket Badola said that river water contains microscopic traces of animals such as skin cells, hair, faecal matter and other biological residues, all of which carry DNA. “By extracting and analysing these particles from water samples, scientists can identify which species are present in the area, even those that are rarely seen directly,” he added.
He further said that important aquatic species such as mahseer, gharial, otter and crocodile are still found in Ramganga and Kosi rivers. “But their populations have been steadily declining. The main reasons include waste discharge from resorts and other sources, along with increasing water pollution. Pollution reduces oxygen levels in the water, posing a serious threat to the survival of aquatic life,” he observed.
“Through e-DNA analysis, continuous monitoring of riverine biodiversity as well as water pollution levels will be possible,” he informed and added that this study is expected to provide a strong scientific foundation for future river conservation efforts and wildlife management in the Corbett landscape.
