Kerala Forest Department Pilots AI-Based App
The Forest department has developed an AI-based tool for an invertebrate faunal survey in the Mankulam forest division in Idukki. The tool, developed by the Government Engineering College, Idukki, enables easy identification of butterfly species with high accuracy. The three-day exercise was conducted in association with the Travancore Nature History Society to prepare a faunal inventory of the biodiversity-rich Mankulam reserve forests, covering the Lower Periyar Valley to the high ranges of Munnar.
Kerala University has created an AI-based app to map the Mankulam reserve’s biodiversity. The app, developed by Asha J., Viji R., Gijy P.G., Suresh K., and Rishidas S., includes images of 265 butterfly species and suggests species with similar traits. The app aims to expand the database to include profiles of all 326 butterfly species and odonate species, aiming to popularize butterfly watching and nature conservation.
TNHS research associate Kalesh Sadasivan’s survey reveals Mankulam’s butterfly population has increased from 265 to 270, with 29 endemic species, including Malabar Rose and Malabar banded swallowtail. Other species found include 54 odonate, 25 ant, four cicada, and several endemic birds.
(With inputs from Shikha Singh)
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