Government of Odisha has declared the following Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) for the conservation of Biodiversity in the state. *

Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: (C) Satkosia Gorge: Angul District

• Gandhamardan Hill Range spans Bargarh and Balangir districts. It is a biologically rich hill range famous for its medicinal plants and is considered a treasure house of Ayurvedic herbs. It received the Biodiversity Heritage Site tag in 2023.
• Mandasaru Gorge (valley) under Phulbani Forest Division in Kandhamal district has been declared as the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in Odisha in 2019.
• Mahendragiri Hill Range is located in Gajapati district in southern Odisha. It is the second highest peak in Odisha and a recognised biodiversity Heritage Site in 2022.
• Satkosia Gorge is primarily associated with Angul district and is one of Odisha’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries, where the Mahanadi cuts through the Eastern Ghats creating a spectacular gorge.But it is not a Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS).
• Gupteswar Forest — Koraput District, A forest system adjacent to Gupteswar cave shrine in Koraput district of Odisha was accorded the fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site in the state 2024.

Definition

Biodiversity Heritage Sites are well defined areas that are unique, ecologically fragile ecosystems — terrestrial, coastal and inland waters, and marine — having rich biodiversity comprising richness of wild as well as domesticated species, high endemism, presence of rare and threatened species, keystone species, species of evolutionary significance, wild ancestors of domestic or cultivated species, fossil beds, and significant cultural, ethical or aesthetic values.

Basic Facts