Kerala Forests

Forests in Kerala are part of the Western Ghats, one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots. They include tropical evergreen, moist deciduous, mangrove, and shola forests, supporting rare flora and fauna such as elephants, tigers, and endemic species. These forests regulate climate, protect watersheds, and sustain rivers crucial for agriculture and livelihoods. Forest-dependent communities rely on them for food, medicine, and cultural practices. However, deforestation, plantations, infrastructure projects, and climate change pose serious threats. Protecting Kerala’s forests is essential for ecological balance, disaster resilience, and sustainable development in the region.