What is the Mula River tree-mapping project?

The Mula River tree-mapping project is a citizen-led initiative in Pune, India, where over 200 residents documented more than 3,500 trees, shrubs, and other plants along a 4-km stretch of the Mula River.

What did the Mula River project reveal about Pune's urban biodiversity?

The project identified 55 unique tree species, including native Karanj and Babul, and also uncovered the presence of various reptiles, insects, and other wildlife in Pune's riparian forests, which were previously unknown to many locals.

Home / Environment / Citizen Scientists Map Pune's Lush Riparian Forests, Uncover Hidden Biodiversity

Citizen Scientists Map Pune's Lush Riparian Forests, Uncover Hidden Biodiversity

Q: How did the Mula River project contribute to global biodiversity data?

The data collected by the Pune citizens has been accepted and uploaded to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), an international platform that provides open access to information on all forms of life on Earth.

15 Oct

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Summary

Over 3,500 trees mapped along Mula River in Pune
55 unique tree species identified, including native Karanj and Babul
Citizen-led initiative reveals rich biodiversity in urban riparian zone

Citizen Scientists Map Pune's Lush Riparian Forests, Uncover Hidden Biodiversity

A large-scale citizen-led biodiversity documentation project along the Mula River in Pune has been accepted and uploaded to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), an international data platform. Between January and May 2025, over 200 citizens, guided by botanists, recorded more than 3,500 trees, shrubs, climbers, and herbs along a 4-km stretch of the river.

The initiative has identified 55 unique tree species, with Karanj, Babul, and Umbar being the top three native species found. Experts also spotted various reptiles, insects, and other wildlife, revealing the rich biodiversity of Pune's riparian forests, which were previously unknown to many locals.

The project, supported by the Pune Knowledge Cluster and the sustainability organization Nisarg, aims to fill a crucial gap, as biodiversity reports often overlook riparian ecosystems. Conservationists emphasize the importance of these areas in maintaining freshwater resilience and carbon sequestration, highlighting the need for greater protection and policy focus.

The tree-mapping exercise is now entering its second phase, as citizens continue to explore and document the diverse life in Pune's urban riparian zones.

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