Eravikulam National Park (ENP)in Munnar, has arrange a Fernarium inside the park. Photo: Special Arrangement
Eravikulam National Park (ENP), the pure habitat of Nilgiri tahr in Munnar, has a new attraction — a Fernarium arrange inside the park. According to officers, that is the first time such a fern assortment has been established in the hill station.
Job J. Neriamparampil, assistant wildlife warden, ENP, stated that 52 sorts of ferns have already been planted in the new Fernarium. “As per data, ENP has 104 varieties of ferns. We have planned to increase the number of ferns inside the park to cover all 104 varieties soon,” stated Mr. Neriamparampil.
“The fern park has been set up near the orchidarium and will be opened to the public on April 20,” stated Mr. Neriamparampil.
“ENP is one of the rich biodiversity areas, and the new initiatives aim to provide visitors with awareness about the park’s biodiversity,” stated the official.
Jomy Augustine, a famous botanist, stated that ferns are the ecological indicator of wholesome forests. “The climatic condition inside the ENP is more suitable for growing ferns,” stated Dr. Augustine.
“Ferns are part of the Epiphytic family. They grow naturally in a soilless condition. The plants obtain water and nutrients through leaching from trees. A large number of ferns are on the trees inside the park,” stated Dr. Augustine.
Meanwhile, after the calving season of Nilgiri tahrs, ENP opened for the public on Saturday.
Mr. Neriamparmpil stated that a selfie level is amongst new amenities established for vacationers in the park. “Three buggy cars have been arranged for the visitors to explore the park, and two more will be purchased soon. The park had 1,607 tourists on Saturday and 1,684 on Sunday,” stated the official.
According to officers, a survey of latest births in ENP shall be held on April 20. The final annual census recorded 785 tahrs, whereas 125 new calves have been sighted. “We expect to find around 150 new calves this time,” stated Mr. Neriamparampil.
