Namthing Pokhari - Abode Of Endangered Himalayan Salamanders

The Himalayan Salamander found in Namthing Pokhari is a keystone species of the lentic zones in the Eastern Himalayas. This endangered species belongs to an offshoot of the ancient family Salamandridae, which is known to have existed in Europe during the Miocene age, between 13 and 25 million years ago. These salamanders have now entirely vanished in other parts of the world. They still survive in the solitary Namthing Lake of the Shelpu Hills.

Namthing Pokhari: An Isolated Haven for Himalayan Salamanders

Namthing Pokhari is located in an isolated spot on the hillock of the Shelpu Hills. The area is enclosed by greenery and stillness. The lake is the sole breeding site for the endangered Himalayan Salamander. The lake remains well-fed during monsoon. During the dry season, the bed of the lake remains blanketed under grass. Generally, about 4-5 species of grasses thrive in the bed, providing protection and shade to the species. The grass also attracts tiny insects, on which the salamanders later feed. Apart from finding shade, the salamander lays its sticky, jelly-like eggs on the grass, as laying eggs on clear water is difficult for them.

Threats to Salamander Conservation: Illegal Activities and Ignorance

During the breeding season, many locals from nearby villages indulge in the illegal activity of catching and selling these endangered salamanders. Another problem during the formation of the seasonal pool is that some visitors and locals swim and enter the lake to click pictures. Entering the lake has a direct and adverse effect on the natural cycle of the salamander. Despite the wire fence and the regulations inscribed on a board at the entrance, the majority do not pay heed to the rules and jump to the other side of the restricted area. The locals also ignorantly cut the grass on the periphery of the lake, which complicates the salamander's ability to lay eggs.

Since Namthing Pokhari is a tourist attraction, the crisis worsens as tourists indulge in catching the salamander for entertainment. Many tourists not only catch the salamander but even take them home. The salamanders remain in a state of hibernation during the dry wintertime. Tourists pay 200-300 rupees per salamander to local children. The salamanders hibernating on the periphery of the lake are searched for and pulled out of hibernation, creating biological destruction and affecting the breeding cycle.

A Step Towards Conservation

Until 1970-1978, Namthing Pokhari was richly enveloped by indigenous woodland. Due to illegal encroachment, the species has come to the verge of extinction. To conserve these endangered species, the local youths of the Shelpu Hills formed the Namthing Pokhari Sangrakshan Samity in 2013. Urgent awareness is needed to protect the endangered species and prevent its extinction from the earth.