Orchids of Pangot

                                   

                 Orchids of Pangot

Introduction

What is an orchid?

Orchids are a diverse and 2nd largest flowering plant known as the Orchidaceae family. Worldwide it has 28,000 species and India has 1,256 species. 

Orchids of Uttarakhand 

Uttarakhand is very rich in orchid diversity; the state currently has 244 orchid species, placing it 10th on the list of orchid diversity in India.

Ecological importance 

Orchids are the most important plants in the horticulture view of point.  They are the climatic indicators and symbol of a healthy forest, lots of butterflies are also attracted by these beautiful Orchids.

Economical importance  

Due to their beauty, orchids are used for decorative purposes. And facing overexploitation.

Habitat of Pangot 

Pangot lies in a temperate zone and has very unique geographical features because of that it has lots of diversity. This zone supports both evergreen and deciduous forest key species are banj oak (Quercus leucotrichophora), moru oak ( Quercus floribunda), buransh (rhododendron arboreum), Deodara (cedrus deodara), kafal (myrica esculenta) ayaar (lyonia ovalifolia) and chamkhadik (carpinus viminea) to few. 

Methodology 

The literature and forest survey was carried out from May to September 2024 in a selected area in Pangot.

Orchids 

Dendrobium denudans

Dendrobium denudans is a epiphytic orchid, locally known as “hadjodan” or bare Dendrobium. Found in bagad area 3 km from Pangot on Garura(Olea glandulifera) tree flowering time of this beautiful orchid is April-June. Dendrobium is found in the Himalaya, from Garhwal to Sikkim, at altitudes of 1500-2100 m. 

Epipactis helleborine 

Epipactis helleborine is a terrestrial orchid commonly found in foothills to alpine regions from 1000-4000 m, flowering time is July to August. Here in Pangot, this beautiful orchid is found in oak forest near Ghughukham, Naina peak, snow view and Killbury. 

Habenaria intermedia

Habenaria intermedia, a beautiful, white-flowered orchid locally known as Riddhi, blooms during the monsoon season from July to August between 2000-2700 mt. elevation. This exquisite orchid is part of the Ayurvedic Ashtavarga, a revered group of eight medicinal herbs. While traveling from Nainital, one can easily spot numerous Riddhi plants adorning the roadside walls, adding to the natural charm of the region.  

Habenaria pectinata

Habenaria pectinata ia an terrestrial orchid also known as Sword-Leaf Habenaria, The Most suitable habitat for Sword-Leaf Habenaria is temperate grassy slopes at 1500-3000 m 

                                                                         

Herminium clavigerum

Herminium clavigerum, 60 cm tall is a terrestrial orchid found in himalayas, from Kashmir to Bhutan, at altitudes of 1800-3500 m.  In this area, it can be found on Naina Peak, Pangot, and Snow View. Grassy patches are also a habitat for Herminium orchids. elevation, during July and August. In Pangot, the Sword-Leaf Habenaria is found near Cheer Point and on the top of Ghanyal Devi Peak.

Satyrium nepalense 

Satyrium nepalense is a terrestrial orchid that grows up to 15cm. Long . blooming time is august-october while coming from Nainital to Pangot can be seen alongside the road mixed with grasses, also can be seen on the top of Ghanyal devi peak.  

                                       

Spiranthes australis

Spiranthes Australis also known as Spiral Orchid is a terrestrial orchid up to 30 cm tall. In Pangot it is found in Ghanyal devi’s top and at cheer point, it have beautiful spiral flowering style which makes it more beautiful. Flowering time is from July-September. 

                                                                       

Thunia alba

Thunia alba is epiphytic or lithophytic orchid which have very beautiful fragrant white flowers which bloom during monsoon from July-August, in bagad area 3 km from Pangot grows on Garura (Olea glandulifera) tree. 

Vanda cristata 

Vanda cristata also known as comb vanda, found at 1000-2000 m elevation, is an epiphytic orchid, whose flowering time is may-June  which grows on Garura 

(Olea glandulifera) trees in the Bagad area, about 3 kilometers from Pangot. The suitable habitat of comb vanda is a humid area near water streams. Flowering of comb vanda is from May to June. 

                                                

sr.no.	Botanical name	Common name	Flowering & fruiting period
1.	Dendrobium denudans	Bare dendrobium	April-June
2.	Epipactis helleborine	Broadleaf Helleborine	July-August
3.	Habenaria intermedia	Riddhi	July-August
4.	Habenaria pectinata	Comb habenaria	august-Sep.
5.	Herminium clavigerum	Club tail Habenaria	July-August
6.	Satyrium nepalense	Nepal satyrium	august-October
7.	Spiranthes australis	Asian spiral orchid	July-September
8.	Thunia alba	White thunia	July-August
9.	Vanda cristata	Comb vanda	May-June

 Earth walk around Pangot

7 june 2023

                                     Fig 1. oak forest 

Earth walk First developed in the 1970s, the Earthwalk is a light, refreshing touch of nature. It involves a slow, mindful walk around the Earth, taking in the beauty of nature and appreciating the interconnectedness of all life. This practice is said to help bring people closer to nature and to the planet as a whole.   

As I embarked on my Earthwalk from Pangot to Woodpecker Point at 7:00 in the morning, I was immediately enveloped by the serene beauty of nature. The light, refreshing touch of nature rejuvenated my spirit and connected me with the world around me. ( fig. 1)

As I strolled along the path, the towering banj oak trees(Fig. 2) provided a soothing shade, offering respite from the gentle morning sun. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I realized that these majestic trees not only provided shelter for countless birds and mammals but also played a crucial role in maintaining the local climate and water cycle. It was a reminder of the urgent need to preserve and protect our forests, ensuring their continued existence for generations to come.

                      Fig. 2

The vibrant Buransh tree, caught my attention and captivated my senses, I appreciated their significance as a source of nectar for various pollinators and their cultural importance in the region. It was a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the interdependence between plants and animals.

As I continued my Earthwalk, the distinct aromas emanating from the himalayan musk rose (fig 3 ) and deodara trees delighted my senses. Inhaling their refreshing fragrances brought a sense of calm and tranquility. I couldn't help but admire the contribution of these evergreen trees not only to the overall biodiversity but also to the traditional medicine practices that have been passed down through generations.

                                   Fig 3.  himalayan musk rose

Passing by the himalayan cypress and chir pine , I marveled at their tall and straight trunks, standing as sentinels of the forest. These coniferous trees played a vital role in stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion. Their resilience and strength were inspiring, reminding me of the importance of fortifying our natural environment.

Among the shrubs, sweet scent of the Himalayan musk rose(fig 3) enchanted me. It was a delight to witness the dance of pollinators around these blossoms, adding to the visual charm of the area. The sight of the vibrant berries of the kilmora shrub also caught my attention, showcasing the abundance and diversity of food sources for the local wildlife.

As I observed the various herbs during my Earthwalk, I marveled at their intricate details and unique characteristics. The mock strawberry (fig 4), with its small red fruits resembling strawberries, added a vibrant touch to the forest floor. The aromatic leaves of the Himalayan white rue carried with them a sense of healing and tradition. Each herb, from Paati( fig.5) to Guldavari, Jungli palak, and Kilmora(fig.7), contributed to the tapestry of the herbaceous layer, adding texture and diversity to the landscape.

                              Fig. 4                                                            Fig. 5 

          fig . 6

Engaging with nature in such a mindful way allowed me to fully immerse myself in the ambiance of the natural environment. The rustling leaves, the gentle breeze caressing my skin, and the symphony of sounds that surrounded me all became part of a holistic sensory experience. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the profound beauty that exists within the natural world. Earthwalks last 45-70 minutes and utilize 4-6 activities. 

As I concluded my Earthwalk at Woodpecker Point, I carried with me the memories and lessons from my journey. The experience deepened my connection with nature and reinforced my responsibility to protect and conserve the environment. It inspired me to continue nurturing my bond with the natural world and to advocate for its preservation, ensuring that future generations can also revel in its wonders.

 CORBETT NATIONAL PARK VOLUNTEERSHIP

Introduction:

In 1936, Jim Corbett established the first national park in Asia, the Corbett Tiger Reserve. this national park is very rich in flora and fauna , It is home to a variety of animals, including the Bengal tiger, leopards, elephants, sambar deer, and more. It is a popular destination for tourists and wildlife enthusiasts alike. It is also a protected area for the conservation of endangered species. Although I am also a wildlife lover, flora appeals to me a lot. in corbett national park it have very rich diversity in flora and mixed forests of Shore Robusta (SaI), the others being Lannea coromandelica (Jhingan), Buchanania lanzan, Dalbergia disso (Shisham), Haldina cordifolia (Haldu), Syzygium cumini (Jamun), Mallotus philippinensis (Rohini), Mitragyna parvifolia, Terminalia spp. (Myrobalans), Ficus spp. (Figs), Macaranga pustulata, Callicarpa arborea, Diopoknema butyracea (Chyura), Bauhinia variegate (Kachnar), Bomb ax cobia (Semal), Lydia claying (Pula), Schleicher oleos (Kokum), Holoptelea integrities (Karanj), Cassia fistula (Amaltas), Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Parijat), Anogeissus latifolia (Bakli, Dhaura), etc. The shrubby vegetation is represented by Murraya koenigii, Carissa opaca, Clerodendrum viscous, Adhatoda vasica, Jasminum multiflorum, Solanum erianthum, Cal/icarpa macrophylla, Eranthemum nervosum, Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis, Jatropha curcas, Rhus parviflora, Dodonaea viscosa, Woodfordia fruticosa and many others.

                 fig 2 Paterpani forest rest house view

Working as volunteer in corbett tiger reserve was amazing. I spent my time observing the flora and fauna and helping the forest staff with their daily tasks. It was a unique experience that I will never forget. I was able to appreciate the beauty and importance of nature even more. I was able to see a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian gray mongooses, jungle cats, elephants, wild boars, chitals (spotted deer), barking deer, sambhars, and nilgai (Indian antelope). I also witnessed how various animals interact with one another in their natural habitat. It was a truly special experience that I will cherish forever. I also discovered a newfound respect for the environment and the importance of conservation. I now have a better understanding of the fragility of nature and the need to protect it from human interference. I am grateful for this experience and will keep it close to my heart.

Project Tiger estimation from 25th november 2020 to 15 march 2021

WWF India estimates tiger populations every year by camera trapping method. i joined WWF India on 25th November 2020 as a volunteer. My main task is to set up camera traps in various locations in Corbett Tiger Reserve My goal is to help WWF India get accurate data on the number of tigers in the area. I worked under project officer mr. shariq saifi, who was very good and taught me a lot.