Unveiling Mangalore University's Hidden Wilderness: A Biodiversity Marvel

A groundbreaking scientific endeavor at Mangalore University has illuminated the vibrant tapestry of life thriving within its campus, revealing an astonishing diversity of fauna. A meticulous two-year study, conducted collaboratively by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Western Ghats Regional Centre in Kozhikode, and Mangalore University's Department of Applied Zoology, has meticulously documented a staggering 817 species of animals.

This monumental discovery not only solidifies the campus's status as a significant biodiversity hotspot but also underscores the ecological richness of the wider Western Ghats region.

The comprehensive survey, spanning from 2022 to 2024, brought to light an incredible array of species. Arthropods, the most numerous and diverse group, accounted for a remarkable 534 species.

This includes a fascinating collection of 338 insect species across 23 different orders, alongside 147 species of spiders from 24 families, 4 species of scorpions, 16 species of mites, 12 species of millipedes and centipedes, and 17 species of crustaceans. The sheer variety among these often-overlooked creatures highlights the complex ecological interactions occurring daily on campus grounds.

Beyond the world of invertebrates, the study also cataloged an impressive 283 vertebrate species.

Avian enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that 153 species of birds call the campus home, showcasing a rich variety of feathered inhabitants. The aquatic ecosystems contribute 53 species of fish, while the damp undergrowth and water bodies host 33 species of amphibians. Reptiles, from slithering snakes to agile lizards, account for 29 species, and a healthy population of 15 mammal species rounds out the vertebrate count.

This extensive documentation offers an unprecedented glimpse into the intricate food webs and interdependencies that define the campus environment.

This pioneering research holds immense significance for conservation efforts and future ecological studies. The detailed inventory provides crucial baseline data for monitoring biodiversity changes, understanding habitat health, and informing sustainable management practices.

The campus, with its diverse microhabitats, serves as a living laboratory, offering unparalleled opportunities for students and researchers to engage with and learn from nature.

The success of this comprehensive study is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the research team, led by Dr. C.P.

Shijith from the ZSI and Dr. K.S. Sreepada from Mangalore University's Department of Applied Zoology. Their tireless work has unveiled a treasure trove of biodiversity, the findings of which are slated to be compiled into a detailed book, further contributing to scientific literature and public awareness.

This collaborative spirit promises a future of continued exploration and protection for the vibrant ecosystems of Mangalore University and beyond.