5.8 - National Park

A National Park is a protected area reserved for the conservation of wildlife, natural habitats, and biodiversity. The primary objective of a national park is to conserve flora, fauna, and the ecosystem in their natural state, free from human interference. National parks are often located in areas of great ecological, cultural, or aesthetic value.

National Parks in India are governed by the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which ensures the protection of plants and animals and regulates activities within these parks. Activities like hunting, grazing, and collection of forest products are prohibited in national parks, making them a safe haven for endangered species.

Characteristics of a National Park

• Protection of Wildlife: National parks aim to conserve endangered species and their habitats by preventing human activities that could harm the ecosystem.
• Boundaries: National parks have well-defined boundaries, often marked by fences or natural barriers, to restrict human access and protect wildlife.
• Restricted Human Activities: Only authorized personnel and tourists with permits are allowed to enter national parks. Activities like hunting, fishing, and logging are strictly prohibited.
• Natural Ecosystem: The aim is to maintain the natural ecosystem and prevent alterations that could affect the balance of species and habitats.

Importance of National Parks

• Biodiversity Conservation: National parks help preserve biodiversity by providing a sanctuary for a wide variety of species, including endangered and vulnerable ones.
• Ecological Balance: By conserving natural habitats, national parks help maintain the ecological balance of the region. They support the food chain, promote natural water cycles, and prevent soil erosion.
• Tourism and Education: National parks serve as a source of ecotourism, which not only generates revenue but also educates the public about the importance of conservation and the need to protect natural resources.
• Scientific Research: They provide opportunities for scientific studies in ecology, botany, zoology, and other fields, aiding in the advancement of knowledge about the natural world.

Examples of National Parks in India

• Jim Corbett National Park: Located in Uttarakhand, it is India's first national park and a famous habitat for the Bengal tiger.
• Sundarbans National Park: Situated in West Bengal, it is known for its vast mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal tiger.
• Kaziranga National Park: Located in Assam, it is famous for the one-horned rhinoceros.
• Ranthambore National Park: Located in Rajasthan, this park is known for its large population of tigers.

Management of National Parks

National parks are managed by the government, with forest departments responsible for enforcing laws and regulations. Management practices include regular patrolling, monitoring of wildlife populations, prevention of poaching, and maintenance of park infrastructure. Conservation efforts are also supported by NGOs, research institutions, and international organizations.

Formulae Related to Ecosystem Dynamics

The dynamics of an ecosystem in a national park can be expressed using ecological formulas. One of the commonly used formulas is the calculation of the net primary productivity (NPP) of an ecosystem, which is a measure of the energy captured by plants and available for consumption by herbivores and higher trophic levels:

Net Primary Productivity (NPP) = Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) - Respiration (R)

The GPP is the total energy captured by plants through photosynthesis, while R represents the energy used by the plants for their growth and maintenance.