Authors : Atul R. Deokar and Pravin U. Meshram
Page Nos : 44-56
Description :
This review critically examines the impact of temporal changes in land use and land cover (LULC) on soil organic carbon
(SOC) stocks and biodiversity within wildlife corridors of Central India, with a focus on the Satpura-Maikal landscape.
Rapid LULC changes—driven by agricultural expansion, coal mining, and urbanization—have resulted in significant
forest loss, habitat fragmentation, and increased prevalence of degraded lands. These changes have led to a marked
decline in SOC pools, particularly in surface soils, and a reduction in microbial activity, which together compromise soil
fertility, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem resilience. Simultaneously, biodiversity has suffered due to habitat
fragmentation, with negative effects on species richness, genetic connectivity, and ecosystem functionality. The review
synthesizes findings from over 200 peer-reviewed studies and reports, highlighting the urgent need for integrated
conservation strategies, restoration of degraded corridors, sustainable land management, and community engagement.
Effective landscape-level planning and policy interventions are essential to mitigate the adverse impacts of LULC change
on SOC and biodiversity, ensuring long-term ecological stability and climate resilience in Central India's wildlife
corridors.
