Ahmedabad : Gujarat’s muggers — marsh crocodiles found in Bhuj and Vadodara — will now receive a scientifically grounded management plan, following a comprehensive one-to-two-year ecological habitat study being planned in collaboration with the Gujarat forest department and NGOs.
“Crocodiles are apex predators that have survived since the Mesozoic era — over 65 million years ago — owing to their extraordinary immune systems. Research in Tamil Nadu revealed crocodiles maintain river ecosystems by keeping invasive fish and plant species in check,” Muthiah said.
Using GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping, researchers will evaluate population density, migration patterns, and habitat dynamics across 10 to 15 key parameters. A senior forest department source told TOI that an MoU will be signed for the detailed study, which is required to implement “targeted translocation of the muggers if needed. Once the MoU is signed, a team of scientists will build a centralised state reptile data repository for Gujarat.
The study will be conducted by Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (MCBT), Reptile Conservancy Alliance (RCA), and Temple of Reptiles (ToR). He added, “In Gujarat, our holistic study will evaluate the entire aquatic matrix, including associated fauna like otters, weather variations, and river health. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Ahmedabad | Silver Rate in Ahmedabad | Bank Holidays in Ahmedabad | Public Holidays in Ahmedabad | Ahmedabad AQI | Weather in Ahmedabad | Petrol Price in Ahmedabad | Diesel Price in Ahmedabad | CNG Price in Ahmedabad | LPG Price in Ahmedabad