New Delhi: Believe it or not but a research done by academicians of Delhi University has revealed that endemic species, especially medicinal plants, in the North-eastern Himalayas have seen 16 to 18% elevational shift due to global warming.
The study says of the 584 species that grow in the region—it includes 37 species of tree, 75 climbers, 72 shrubs and 400 species of herbs—more than 150 are facing elevational shift. “If the shift goes on at this pace, it will result to extinction of herbaceous species between 2050 and 2070,” said Maharaj K Pandit, Dean of Science faculty in DU, who conducted the survey with his team. “Some tree species that were growing at an altitude of 1,900 m are now being found at a height of 2,800 m. All species have seen a shift of 700 metre. While climbers have shifted from the altitude of 1,600 to 2,300 m, the shrub species that were grown at 2,600 m are now growing at 3,600 m height. Even the herbaceous species that were found in higher reaches have shifted upwards from 3,900–4,600 m.”
Maximum number of species has shown a northward shift towards. Besides flora, some species of fauna are also in the danger zone.
The study says, “Herbaceous plants that have witnessed an elevational shift, include Aconites that are used to treat fear, anxiety and tension; Himalayan Marsh Orchid (Salam Panja) that calms nerves, Himalayan Gentian’s (Kadu/karu) root, which is used as a medicine for indigestion; Himalayan Mayapple (Van Kakri) that is used to treat cancer, especially ovarian cancer; and many species of Costus (Kuth)—its root powder is used in medicines for treatment of diseases related to brain, skin and reproductive organs.”
“Likewise, wild species of onion known as Pharan and Jambu that are used as condiments are also under threat,” the study says.
Besides acting as medicines, these plants help locals generate income.