Evaluation of Habitat Suitability Index Model of Indian Gharial in National Chambal Sanctuary, M.P. India

Abstract

Almost all animals use their habitats in a non-random manner. But the cost and benefits of using specific habitat types remain unknown for many types of organisms. Habitat suitability models aim to assess the relationship between species and their habitat and accurately predict the species response to habitat changes. We developed a riverine habitat model for Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), a critically endangered species, in the National Chambal Sanctuary in India after reviewing and synthesizing existing information. Based on the model, an index of habitat suitability is produced, ranging from 0 (unsuitable habitat) to 1 (optimal habitat). The results of the present study indicate that the Gharial prefer deep pools in water bodies. The deep waters serve as feeding and breeding grounds for Gharial. They prefer water with a velocity ranging from 20–70 cm.sec-1 . Sandy banks are preferred as basking sites, mainly because they provide moisture during the warm months and because it seems that they find it easier to crawl on sandy surfaces than on rocky or clay surfaces. Insects, tadpoles, tiny fish, and frogs are preferred by young Gharial. A habitat suitability model for Gharial can be used as a decision support system in order to improve conservation efforts at different landscape scales.