ICLEI South Asia has documented the diversity of grass species in the grasslands of Goa, with support from the Goa Forest Department. Forty-eight species of grasses have been identified following a study in nine grasslands – Ravan Dongar, Succoro, Verna, Pale, Pilerne, Mollem, Sosogad, Quitol and Surla – over two seasons. The species have been classified, site-wise, into palatable and non-palatable categories, and also in accordance with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classification. The results of the study were presented to the Goa Forest Department at a meeting, and the report has been highly appreciated.
Grasslands are unique ecosystems that provide an array of ecosystem services. Globally, they are facing degradation due to anthropogenic factors and climate change. It is necessary to document the existing diversity of grass species in grasslands to understand the existing floral composition. This will help to understand the levels of degradation and will help to develop appropriate restoration plans.