Description:

The Department of Physical and Natural Sciences invites you for talk by Dr . Aparna Watve, Red List Authority Coordinator for IUCN SSC Western Ghats Plant Specialist Group, on - Rock outcrops: Evolution, Diversity and human linkages

Rock outcrops are geomorphological formations with large expanses of rocks exposed due to natural weathering processes. They function as special habitats owing to their unique microclimatic and edaphic conditions. A diversity of rock outcrops such as inselbergs, tors and duricrusts have evolved in India due to diverse landscape level weathering processes. Vegetation of rock outcrops is highly seasonal, dominated by ephemeral and geophytic flora dominated by graminoids and legumes. Flora as well fauna shows high endemism and the outcrops function as terrestrial habitat islands leading to speciation in multiple taxa. Beyond their ecological significance, these outcrops have played an indispensable role in shaping human history, culture, and livelihoods. Indiscriminate exploitation for rocks and minerals, flawed landscape management that emphasizes forest above all other ecosystems and invasion by introduced alien species have led to outcrops becoming a globally threatened habitat. 

The talk presents an overview of Indian rock outcrops and their global significance. It presents outcomes of recent research studies from Western Ghats and Peninsular India and describes challenges for biodiversity conservation. Conservation actions initiated by the Rock Outcrop Network, on ground and at policy level, are discussed.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Aparna Watve is a Red List Authority and the Coordinator for the IUCN SSC Western Ghats Plant Specialist Group. She holds a Ph.D. in Botany from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her research focuses on the biodiversity, ecology, and conservation of rock outcrops, with over 30 publications, including research articles, books, and book chapters. She has served as faculty at various institutes and has been a member of multiple state and national committees on biodiversity and conservation.