Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, globally renowned for its one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, and elephants, has for the first time documented its microfaunal diversity. A rapid survey conducted by The Corbett Foundation in collaboration with Kaziranga’s forest personnel has recorded 283 species of native insects and spiders, underscoring the park’s overlooked but ecologically vital biodiversity.

Key Findings

• Total species recorded: 283 (254 insects and 29 spiders).
• Breakdown:
  • 85 species of butterflies and moths.
  • 40 species of ants, bees, and wasps.
  • 35 species of beetles.
• Conducted in the woodland track of Panbari Reserve Forest under the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division.
• Report titled: Explorative Study of Insects and Spiders of the Woodland Habitat of Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve.

Significance of the Study

• Baseline data: Provides the first scientific benchmark for insect and spider conservation in Kaziranga.
• Ecosystem services: Insects and spiders are crucial pollinators, soil aerators, seed dispersers, and natural pest controllers.
• Food web foundation: They sustain the larger fauna that Kaziranga is famous for.
• Climate resilience: Highlighted as essential for building ecosystems resilient to climate change, which is accelerating insect decline.

Broader Context

• Globally, nearly 40% of insect species are in decline due to habitat loss, deforestation, and climate change.
• In Northeast India, shifting rainfall patterns and rising temperatures are already altering habitats, making insect conservation critical.
• Conservation efforts have traditionally focused on charismatic megafauna, but this study demonstrates that Kaziranga’s long-term survival is equally dependent on protecting its microfaunal diversity.
  

Kaziranga’s insect and spider survey highlights a paradigm shift in conservation—from protecting only flagship species to recognising the fundamental role of lesser-known organisms in sustaining ecosystems. Protecting microfauna will not only preserve biodiversity but also ensure ecological balance and resilience against climate change.

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the recent insect and spider survey in Kaziranga National Park:

1. The survey recorded more than 250 insect species and nearly 30 spider species in Kaziranga.
2. The study was jointly conducted by The Corbett Foundation and Kaziranga’s forest personnel.
3. The survey highlights the ecological importance of insects and spiders as pollinators, soil aerators, and natural pest controllers.
4. Globally, more than 70% of insect species are in decline due to climate change and habitat loss.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)

THE ASSAM TRIBUNE