Scientists of the forest ecology and biodiversity conservation division of the Kerala Forest Research Institute, Thrissur, are joining others across the world to assess the impacts of climate change on various eco-climatic zones in tropical forests. The scientists are all set to establish a 10-hectare permanent sample plot in tropical wet evergreen forest in the Kerala part of the Western Ghats. They have already carried out preliminary field visits to identify the suitable plots. Automated weather stations will also be set up at the sites.

The long-term observations will help to generate a baseline data on vegetation structure and composition of evergreen forest which will enable comparative studies on the similar ecosystems across the world, said Sreejith Namboodiri, Principal Investigator of the project............Read more

Source: The Hindu