Landscape characterization of Sariska National Park (India) and its surroundings

Abstract

Landscape characterization gives an overall information on the status of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC), changes in its composition and the impact of natural and human influences operating at different spatial and temporal scales. This information can be used to monitor changes in natural forest resources and protected areas, delineate potential conservation areas and can serve in effective management of ecologically fragile landscapes. In the present study, geo-spatial tools were used to characterize the landscape of Sariska National Park and its surroundings. Satellite data was used to prepare LULC maps for 1989 and 2000, change detection analysis and computation of landscape metrics. Climatic data, field records and modeling tools were used to map the potential spread of two invasive species, Prosopis juliflora and Adhatoda vasica. The results show that the forest area increased from 1989 to 2000, indicating better management practices. Landscape metrics (PAFRAC, PLADJ and AI) also support this argument. Improvements in the degraded forest can further enhance this effect. The entire reserve however is suitable for the invasion of P. juliflora and A. vasica but is more pronounced in Boswellia serrata and Anogeissus pendula — Acacia catechu (open) forests. A detailed landscape characterization map can help forest managers to make important policy decisions concerning issues such as invasive species.