A Review Of Avifaunal Diversity In Indian Wetlands And Its Impact On Conservation Using GIS

Wetlands of India are vital and unique habitat of aquatic faunal biodiversity especially avifaunal diversity like waterfowl, estimated to be 58.2 million hectares in area. Providing the food, migratory routs and habitat for these water birds is one of the most important functions performed by the wetlands. These wetlands are now under threat due to encroachment, silting, weed infestation and pollution. The review deals with the information of avifaunal diversity inhabiting in Indian wetlands and causes and consequences of wetland losses. It also provides a use of remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools in mapping for the conservation of wetlands.