The Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve

The Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve is a unique and ecologically rich protected area located in the northeastern state of Assam, India. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rare and endangered species, and beautiful riverine landscapes.

 Key Facts:
Location: Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, Assam

Established: Declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1997

Total Area: Around 765 sq. km

Core Area (Dibru-Saikhowa National Park): About 340 sq. km

 Geographical Features:
Located near the Brahmaputra and Lohit Rivers

Contains grasslands, wetlands, tropical moist forests, and riverine islands

Known for frequent flooding and shifting river courses, creating dynamic habitats

 Flora:
Home to semi-evergreen forests, swamp forests, and grasslands

Rich in aquatic vegetation and orchids

Hosts several medicinal plants and rare trees like the mesua and hollong

 Fauna:
Mammals:

Feral horses (locally called wild horses) – a unique attraction

Hoolock gibbon, leopard cat, elephant, gangetic dolphin, wild boar

Birds:

Over 350 bird species including white-winged wood duck, lesser adjutant stork, black-breasted parrotbill, Indian skimmer

It is an Important Bird Area (IBA)

Reptiles and Amphibians:

Includes python, monitor lizards, crocodiles, and several frog species

Aquatic Life:

Rich in fish species and endangered gangetic river dolphin

 Special Features:
Feral horses: Descendants of animals abandoned during World War II, now living wild

Eco-tourism hotspot: Offers river cruises, birdwatching, and nature trails

One of the few biosphere reserves in India that is non-gazetted and not fenced, allowing for natural migration and ecosystem flow

 Conservation Importance:
Acts as a buffer zone between human habitation and core protected areas

Supports research, education, and conservation awareness

Important for preserving the biodiversity of the Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem