In this paper, we present the current situation of the Gosainkunda and associated lakes based on the preparation of an inventory of lakes using the Google Earth Engine and 2020 Sentinel 2A satellite imagery. Furthermore, we discuss the hydrology, hydrochemistry, and cultural significance of the lakes based on the systematic review of available literatures. In 2020, there are 22 lakes along with Gosaikunda (12.7±0.4 ha) in the Upper Trishuli watershed (59.2 km2), extending from 1274 to 4993 m elevation and covering a total area of 80 ha. The largest lake is Bhairabkunda, with an area of 15.5±0.5 ha. The water bodies in the region are drying, and some of the lakes have already disappeared from the region. But some lakes in the region are evolving as temporary water bodies. The high-altitude lakes are sensitive indicators of anthropogenic disturbance and changing climate. Though the lakes have better hydrochemical quality than the urban lakes located in the southern part of the country, the evidence shows increasing local and long-range transport and deposition of the pollutants in the lake water. The presence of chemical constituents of anthropogenic sources in the water of oligotrophic lakes is possibly evidence of the long-range transport of pollutants. Considering the cultural importance of the region, the number of visitors is increasing annually. Increasing human activities in and around the lake, long-range transport of pollutants, and changing environment in the area are demanding for the lake's conservation. We suggest regular monitoring of the high-altitude lakes to understand the ongoing climate change and anthropogenic impacts.
Four specimens of the Large-toothed Ferret Badger Melogale personata I. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire were found at separate sites in Marshyangdi Rural Municipality, Ward No 4, Srichaur, Tangring, Lamjung district, Nepal. The first individual was captured alive by local people on 4th January 2017 and the second was found dead on 17th January 2017. The third alive and fourth roadkilled specimens of M. personata were photographed from Marshyangdi Rural Municipality, on 9th July 2020, and 26th November 2021, respectively. The species was recorded at the border region of the Annapurna Conservation Area, approximately 203 km from Kathmandu in a tropical forest alongside the Marshyangdi River. The specimens were examined carefully and identified on a morphological basis. The present account represents the first authentic record of M. personata in the Annapurna Conservation Area, moreover also for Nepal.
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