Biodiversity Assessment and Conservation Strategies of Faunal Diversity in the Gangetic Plains: A Brief Review
Mithun Kumar Rathod *
Department of Zoology, Tara Government College (Autonomous), Sangareddy, Affiliated to Osmania University, India.
Vaishalee Thakur
Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University Bhopal (M.P.), India.
Manoranjana Siddhaling Nirmale
Shree Chhatrapati Shivaji College, Omerga, India.
Manisha Kondiram Balsane
Department of Zoology, Sahakar Maharshi Bhausaheb Santuji Thorat, Arts Commerce and Science College, India.
Popat Pathare
Department of Zoology, Shri Mulikadevi Mahavidyalaya, Nighoj, Tal. Parner Dist-Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, India.
Pooja Sharma
College of Forestry, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology (CSAUA&T), Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Rajendra Sahebrao Magar
Department of Zoology, Shri Datta Art's, Commerce & Science College, Hadgaon, Afflited to Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded, India.
Kamlesh Kumar Yadav
Department of Agricultural Sciences, School of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, IFTM University Moradabad-244102, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The Gangetic Plains constitute one of the most extensive and densely populated alluvial ecosystems, supporting rich faunal diversity across terrestrial, freshwater, and wetland habitats. This review synthesizes current knowledge on biodiversity assessment and conservation strategies, highlighting patterns, drivers, and management approaches influencing faunal diversity in the region. A focused literature search was conducted using major academic databases, employing a set of keywords and related terms, including synonyms and relevant concepts. The study examines major faunal groups, including mammals, birds, herpetofauna, fishes, and invertebrates, emphasizing their ecological roles and conservation status. Findings indicate significant shifts in species composition, abundance, and distribution due to habitat loss, agricultural intensification, pollution, climate variability, and invasive species. Quantitative assessment tools such as biodiversity indices and modern techniques including remote sensing and environmental DNA have improved monitoring and evaluation of biodiversity trends. Conservation initiatives, including protected areas, community-based approaches, habitat restoration, and policy interventions, have yielded localized successes, though challenges related to governance, data limitations, and socio-economic pressures continue to constrain effectiveness. Integration of traditional ecological knowledge with scientific research enhances conservation outcomes and supports sustainable resource management. Future priorities include long-term ecological monitoring, interdisciplinary research, technological innovation, and strengthened policy implementation. Emphasis on adaptive management and community participation is essential for addressing environmental uncertainties and ensuring resilience. The review underscores the need for a holistic and inclusive framework that balances ecological conservation with human development, aiming to sustain faunal diversity and ecosystem services in the Gangetic Plains under changing environmental conditions.
Keywords: Biodiversity assessment, faunal diversity, Gangetic Plains, conservation strategies, habitat loss, climate change, ecosystem management.