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Public to Choose Kerala's Official Species
23 Oct
Summary
- Ernakulam seeks public input to declare official species like Periyar cow.
- Several Kerala districts have already designated official flora and fauna.
- Over 140 species selections statewide aim to aid conservation strategies.
Ernakulam district is initiating a public participation process to declare its official species, such as the Periyar cow and Mulavoor koorka. This move aligns with other Kerala districts like Kasaragod, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, which have already designated their official flora and fauna. Thiruvananthapuram is also slated to announce its choices this month.
The process involves collecting suggestions from the public through a Google Form, alongside studies by expert committees. Kasaragod has named the Malabar river lily and White-bellied sea eagle, among others. Kozhikode has selected eight categories, including the Indian pangolin and Athirani flower. Wayanad's list, declared in 2025, features species like the Nilgiri marten and Banasura laughingthrush.
This community-driven initiative, part of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, is expected to result in the identification of at least 140 distinct species across Kerala. The Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) anticipates this will facilitate the development of targeted conservation strategies for these selected taxa and their habitats. Discussions are already underway for targeted conservation of species like the queen sago and Malabar river lily.
