ANNAMALAI TIGER RESERVE (ATR)

The Annamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) is known for its diverse flora, and it is part of the Western Ghats, a region recognized for its high biodiversity and endemism. The Western Ghats is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The flora of the Annamalai Tiger Reserve includes a wide variety of plant species, and here are some of the prominent ones:

1. Evergreen and Semi-Evergreen Forests: A significant portion of ATR is covered by evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. These forests are characterized by dense vegetation that remains green throughout the year. They consist of a wide array of tree species, including:

   • Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia): A valuable timber tree.
   • Teak (Tectona grandis): Known for its high-quality timber.
   • Malabar Kino (Pterocarpus marsupium): A deciduous tree with medicinal properties.

2. Grasslands: Grasslands are also found in the lower elevations of ATR. They provide grazing grounds for herbivores and support a variety of grass species and wildflowers.

3. Bamboo Groves: Bamboo is a prominent component of the flora in ATR. It includes various species of bamboo such as Bambusa arundinacea, Dendrocalamus strictus, and others. These provide habitat and food for several wildlife species.

4. Shola Forests: In the higher elevations, you can find Shola forests. These unique montane forests are often surrounded by grassy high-altitude plateaus known as "sholas." They are characterized by stunted trees and contain several endemic plant species.

5. Orchids: The Western Ghats, including ATR, is known for its rich orchid diversity. There are numerous species of orchids found in the region, many of which are endemic.

6. Medicinal Plants: ATR is home to several medicinal plants used by indigenous communities for traditional healing practices. These include species like Nothapodytes nimmoniana, which is used in the treatment of cancer.

7. Lichens and Mosses: ATR's diverse microclimates support a variety of lichens and mosses on trees and rocks.

8. Epiphytes: The trees in the rainforests of ATR are often covered with epiphytic plants like ferns, mosses, and orchids. These plants grow on the surface of other plants, utilizing them for support.

The Annamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) is inhabited by several indigenous tribal communities who have lived in the region for generations. These tribal communities have a deep connection with the forests and natural resources of the area. Some of the prominent tribes inhabiting the ATR and its surrounding regions include:

1. Toda Tribe: The Toda people are one of the indigenous tribes of the Nilgiris, a region that includes the Western Ghats, where ATR is located. They are known for their unique culture and traditional practices. The Toda people have their own language and are traditionally involved in buffalo herding.

2. Kota Tribe: The Kota tribe is another indigenous group living in the Nilgiris. They have a distinct culture and are traditionally involved in agriculture. The Kota people are skilled in the cultivation of various crops.

3. Kurumba Tribe: The Kurumba tribe is found in the Western Ghats region, including the ATR. They have a deep understanding of the forest and are known for their knowledge of herbal medicine. Some Kurumba people work as forest guides and have become valuable contributors to ecotourism in the area.

4. Irula Tribe: The Irula tribe is found in various parts of Tamil Nadu, including the regions around the ATR. They have a rich cultural heritage and are skilled in activities like snake catching, which has been a traditional occupation for some.

5. Malasar Tribe: The Malasar people are indigenous to the Nilgiris and the surrounding areas. They traditionally relied on shifting agriculture and forest resources for their livelihoods.

6. Mudugar Tribe: The Mudugar people are another tribal community in the Western Ghats region. They have a strong connection to the forests and have traditionally practiced agriculture and collection of forest produce.

7. Paliyan Tribe: The Paliyan people are found in the ATR and surrounding areas. They are known for their knowledge of the forest ecosystem and are skilled hunters and gatherers.