Himalayan Spatial Biodiversity Information System

Abstract

Spatial distribution of environmental resource and its management issues are determined by complex processes and relationships. It involves several interrelating elements with many attributes and a dynamic behavior that required advanced spatial analytical capabilities in the GIS software. The technological solutions required to analyze the system include spatially distributed simulation and optimization models, interactive information system, decision support tools, and expert systems based on geospatial technologies. The primary paradigm of a GIS is the map, an inherently static concept of limited attributes. While modern GIS extends the scope of what can be done within this paradigm toward digital cartography considerably, elaborate applications can be built within existing GIS systems and powerful and flexible tool that involves spatial elements can be developed for different environmental applications. The Eastern Himalayan region is known as one of the global biodiversity hotspots. It includes several Global 200 eco-regions, two Endemic Bird Areas, and several centers for plant diversity. The high biological diversity of the Himalaya is mainly due to the multiple biogeographic origins. The climate variability as a result of being associated with the huge, complex, and steep terrain also gives the Himalayan region a plethora of habitats for the occurrence of the biodiversity hotspot in the region. Apart from being a storehouse of natural resources, the Himalaya is also prone to innumerable natural and anthropogenically induced disasters. This is evident by the recurrent calamities like Kedarnath tragedy, which results in huge loss of life and property.