To explore the biodiversity, Haryana’s first mushroom survey will be conducted on September 30, in Kalesar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Yamunanagar district.
“The outcome of the survey will help in formulating an effective management strategy for the conservation of flora, fauna and funga of Kalesar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. This will also form the basis for observing the impact of habitat disturbance and climate change on the ecology of the region,” said an official spokesperson of the Haryana Forest Department.
He said that the survey will be conducted under the overall guidance of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Haryana and Dr NSK Harsh- a renowned mycologist.
Highlighting the necessity of such a survey, the spokesperson said that trees, shrubs, climbers and herbs would not be able to live on land without fungi. They are an integral part of food chain of many insects and other organisms. The fungi and mushrooms are an inseparable part of a healthy ecosystem.
He elaborated that a number of fungi species (mushrooms) are edible and moreover mushrooms are the only vegetarian source of vitamin D. Also, Wild and the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission became first global organization to call for the recognition of fungi as one of three kingdoms of life critical to protecting and restoring Earth “ fauna, flora and funga” — which are critical to all life on Earth and to be integrated into conservation strategies. Thus, the need to conduct such a survey was identified, the spokesman added.
Divulging more details, the spokesperson said that the focus of the survey will be on mushrooms, however, the survey will also be conducted for butterflies, spiders, amphibians, fish, reptiles, birds and mammalian diversity and various aspects related to their conservation
He further said that 15 scientists (having expertise in various fields like fungi, insects, soil, climate change, botany, plant physiology etc.) from forest research institutes, Dehradun, ten scientists (having expertise in various fields like beetles, butterflies, bees, pollinators, fireflies, bumble bees, mammals, birds and reptiles) from Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, professors and biology students from various colleges of Yamunanagar, nature NGOs, bird lovers and officials of Haryana Forest Department will participate in a day long survey to explore the rich diversity of flora, fauna and funga of Kalesar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, he said.