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Threats to the sacred groves of Kerala


Abstract Sacred groves in Kerala are patches of forest land dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses. These patches ranging from less than a hectare to upward of hundreds of hectares have protected numerous flora and fauna that are often not found outside their boundaries. Sacred groves are an important part of the hydrologic cycle in their communities as they contain ponds and lakes for storing water. Increase pressure for land to accommodate the needs of a growing population has resulted in their loss throughout the state. This has resulted in species loss due to a host of reasons including habitat loss, fragmentation, invasive species, increased traffic from tourists, pollution, etc. Anthropogenic influences are largely blamed for their degradation. This chapter provides an overview of sacred groves and the current threats they face.
Authors Emma Jones University of Wyoming , Claire E. Wooden University of Wyoming , Sajith Variyar V V , Ramesh Sivanpillai University of WyomingORCID
Journal Info Elsevier BV | Biological and Environmental Hazards, Risks, and Disasters (Second Edition) , pages: 191 - 196
Publication Date 1/1/2023
ISSN Not listed
TypeKeyword Image book-chapter
Open Access closed Closed Access
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-820509-9.00025-3
KeywordsKeyword Image Kerala (Score: 0.477548)