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Visakhapatnam's Hidden Wildlife: A City's Biodiversity Surprise
13 Sep
Summary
- Visakhapatnam survey found 490 animal species, including rare ones.
- A freshwater crab new to Andhra Pradesh was documented.
- Vulnerable birds and endangered reptiles live within city limits.
A comprehensive three-year survey by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has revealed a rich diversity of wildlife within and around Visakhapatnam. The inventory, titled 'faunal inventorization of smart city of Visakhapatnam,' documented 490 faunal species across 26 locations, identifying 243 vertebrates and 247 invertebrates.
The survey recorded Oziotelphusa ganjamensis, a freshwater crab endemic to India, for the first time in Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, vulnerable species such as Sterna aurantia (river tern) and endangered reptiles like Hemidactylus kangerensis (rock gecko) were found within Visakhapatnam city limits. Birds were the most abundant group with 138 species, followed by 85 butterfly species.
These findings highlight that rare and vulnerable wildlife can persist alongside urban development. The diverse habitats, including hills, water bodies, scrub, and forest patches, provide essential feeding, breeding, and shelter opportunities. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary and other urban forest patches emerged as crucial biodiversity refuges.
However, these habitats face increasing pressure from urbanization and industrial development, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. The ZSI recommends an urban biodiversity plan for Visakhapatnam, focusing on protecting existing natural areas, establishing green corridors, promoting native species landscaping, and improving waste management systems. The inventory serves as a baseline for future monitoring and sustainable urban planning.
