BIODIVERSITY OF ASAN WETLAND, DOON VALLEY, UTTARAKHAND

Wetlands are transitional zonés between the terrestrial and aquatic environment. These habitais perform major ecological role in the biosphere. Many of the fossil fuels are known to be produced and preserved by the swampy environment of the carboniferous period. Wetlands arc of immensc use to mankind both economically and ecologically. They are unique habitais and sustain substantial biodiversity. A large number of plants and animals species are restricted only lo wetlands. Their survival depends totally on the existence of these habitats.Doon valley is known for its swamps. The trees wei’e cut at that time and the openings created resulted in the extinction of most of the swamps. Wetlands are one of the most productive ecosystems and thus subjected to human greed which is yet another reason for their extinction. Asan wetland near village Dhalipur. 38km. from Dchradun, is located at the confluence of the Yamuna hdeI canal and river Asan. As the reservoir is fed by Asan and Yamuna, the water level attracts a variety of marsh loving birds viz.Egrets, herons, lapwing etc.ln winters it provides a good habitat for migratory waterfowls, that come here in large numbers.