Indian Wetlands: A Historical Perspective

The historical perspective of Indian wetlands encompasses their earliest phases and subsequent evolution, closely tied to the development of life on Earth and fossil records. Geological history shows that speciation and extinction are concurrent processes; however, during the sixth extinction, species loss is accelerating, necessitating the preservation of habitats and the study of wetlands. Wetlands profoundly influenced human civilisation, but human activities have significantly altered these ecosystems and their genetic resources. This paper examines India’s wetland wealth, distribution, and the impacts they face.