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