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Context

A study conducted on the sediments of a seasonal lake in the Kaas Plateau, located in the Satara district of Maharashtra.

Details

• Kaas Plateau, located in the Satara district of Maharashtra, is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
• A study conducted by Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) and the National Centre for Earth Sciences examined sediments from a seasonal lake in the plateau to decode past climate.
• Sediment profiles dating back to 8,000 years BP provided insights into climatic signatures and ecosystem modifications.

Kaas Plateau and its Significance

• Kaas Plateau, also known as Kaas Pathar, is a biodiversity hotspot known for its seasonal flower carpet during August and September.
• Situated approximately 140 km from Pune, the Kaas Plateau is nestled in the Western Ghats.
• Designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2012.
• The plateau's name is derived from the Kaasa tree, scientifically known as Elaeocarpus glandulosus.
• The plateau showcases a diverse range of endemic and rare plant species.

Geological Features and Landscape

• The Kaas Plateau is characterized by its lateritic crust, formed by weathering of basaltic rocks over time.
• Shallow depressions and pediments (rock debris) contribute to the unique topography of the plateau.
• These geological features play a crucial role in the water retention and hydrological processes of the region.

Study Methodology and Sediment Analysis

• ARI and the National Centre for Earth Sciences conducted the study on sediments from a seasonal lake in Kaas Plateau.
• Sediment profiles dating back to 8,000 years BP were analyzed using carbon dating (AMS) to decode climatic signatures.
• Diatoms, mites, thecamoebians, and sediment characteristics provided insights into hydrological processes and lake modifications.

Early-Mid Holocene Climate Shift

• Sediment analysis indicated a major shift in the Indian Summer Monsoons towards dry and stressed conditions with low rainfall around 8,664 years BP.
• Pollen and diatom data suggested a change in climate from freshwater to drier conditions, accompanied by intermittent humid periods.

Late Holocene Climate Changes

• During the late Holocene, approximately 2,827 years BP, a decrease in rainfall and a weakened southwest monsoon were observed.
• Pollen analysis and the presence of pollution-tolerant diatoms indicated lake eutrophication, possibly due to human impact and livestock farming in the catchment area.

Longevity and Conservation of Kaas Plateau

• The seasonal lake on Kaas Plateau has existed for nearly 8,000 years and possibly dried up after 2,000 years BP.
• The observations highlight the plateau's ancient origins, preserved over a long time, and emphasize the need for conservation measures to protect its natural and cultural heritage.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1939276

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