The Relevance and Significant Role of Mid-elevation for the Watersheds and Biodiversity Conservation in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya: The Case of Nepal in the Anthropocene

Abstract

The mid-elevation region (500–3000 m) of Nepal is one of the most diverse regions in the world, supporting a great variety of ecosystems, flora and fauna that are valuable culturally, aesthetically, commercially. It matters greatly for rivers and people downstream. This region is linked with major glacial fed river systems from the high Himalayas and also gives rise to smaller rivers, rivulets and springs and lakes of international importance. These watersheds are a major source of freshwater for millions of people downstream and also encompass a great variety of aquatic fauna and amphibians. However, so far the mid-hills are somewhat overlooked. They are least represented in terms of the protected area management system in Nepal with only a few protected forests being established instead of wider protected areas. The human pressure is highest here when measured per unit area; hence the ecosystems face a hard-time to approach stability. The disturbance caused by the developmental activities also take a toll on the biodiversity and the water sources.

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