The Ecological Tapestry of Lonar Crater: Biodiversity, Conservation Challenges, and Preservation Strategies of the Ecosystem

Abstract

The Lonar Crater, a geological marvel located in Buldana District of India’s Maharashtra state, stands as a unique testament to Earth's natural history, formed around 30,000-50,000 years ago by a meteorite impact on Deccan Plateau basalts. The floral and faunal study of Lonar Lake is a comprehensive research endeavor aimed at understanding the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of this unique ecosystem. The study covered various significant points around the lake spanning a total distance of 3.2 km (aerial) and then back to the Lonar Lake entry point. The main objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence of native flora and fauna and to assess the impact of introduced species on the native biodiversity of the area. This study deals into the diverse flora and fauna of the Lonar ecosystem, revealing 85 plant species, including natives, naturalized, and introduced varieties, alongside a rich avian and reptilian fauna. However, presently the ecosystem faces challenges, including invasive species, deforestation, and pollution. This research underscores the urgency of conservation efforts to protect Lonar's ecological balance and preserve its unique biodiversity.