A Biodiversity Characterization project undertaken by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) here is currently creating a first of its kind database for the states of Maharashtra and Bihar.

The project being handled by C-DAC's Geomatics Solutions Development Group (GSDG) is focusing on identification of biologically rich sites facilitated by geoinformatics technology, principles of landscape ecology and ground based Taxonomic inventory of flora.

"The study will provide first of its kind database of the biodiversity of these two states --- Maharashtra and Bihar---in the form of vegetation type maps and landscape characterization," Sandeep Srivastava, Group Coordinator, GSDG told PTI.

Database created in the project being conducted in collaboration with Department Of Space, will pool into the national database of Biodiversity Information System (BIS) and Indian Bio-resources Information Network (IBIN).

The thrust of GSDG forestry research would cover in addition to Biodiversity Characterization, the other aspects like Carbon sequestration estimation, afforestation and reforestation based Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), landuse and landcover predictions and forest cover dynamics as well as development of Decision Support Systems.

"In the ongoing project, the GSDG researchers have identified 16 rare and threatened plant species in Maharashtra region during field visits in addition to as many as 32 species Endemic to Peninsular India," Srivastava said.

"The 16 plant species that needed protection include Safed Musli, Karvi, Shivala, Van Haldi, Kanwel, Lady nut," he noted.

"In Radhanagari Wild Life sanctuary in Maharashtra the GSDG researchers have also observed the highest carbon sequestration rate in plantation at 20.26 per cent", said the project leader Dr Manish Kale and group member Biswarup Banerjee.

The GSDG was also developing a "Prediction tool" for future landcover estimation, Srivastava added.

The data in respect of forest density, vegetation types and carbon sequestration being compiled under the project would also prove valuable for the proposed GreenIndia project at the national level, he pointed out.