Background: Indigenous languages are crucial for biodiversity knowledge, yet face extinction. This study emphasizes their importance in understanding ecosystems and the necessity of preservation efforts based on the ethnoecological knowledge of Kadar indigenous community endemic to Western Ghats mountains of South West India. Integrating this knowledge into conservation policies is essential for global biodiversity protection.
Methods: This study documented the ecological knowledge of threatened species of the Kadar community in Anamalai, Western Ghats. The knowledge associated with indigenous terminology on threatened species such as Purple Frog, Cochin Forest Cane Turtle, Hornbills etc are used here to demonstrate the depth of associated ecological knowledge. It involved ethnographic engagement to understand their perspectives and practices.
Results: The Kadar language holds vital ecological knowledge, including unique names for species within the Anamalai landscape unit of the Southern Western Ghats. Their lexicon reveals intricate understandings of biodiversity, exemplified by "Karibmudan" (endangered tree) known uniquely to Vazhachal clans, and specific terms for "Koottupambu," "Chirapool," "Thattukottan," "Vatti Ongal," and "Karimbudan” for them alone and “Chirattan" which is shared across other indigenous communities of the Southern Western Ghats are highlighting the interconnected ecological comprehension.
Conclusion: The Kadar ethnic community's knowledge exemplifies deep ecological insights that are useful for the present conservation paradigm. Preserving this linguistic heritage is crucial for safeguarding traditional ecological knowledge and integrating indigenous perspectives into conservation, enriching our understanding of biodiversity and ensuring local community involvement.
great hornbill, cane turtle, diospyros, conservation, TEK
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