An aerial view of the Shola Grasslands of the Poomaale Estate in Coorg.

All the Beforest Collectives are different from each other, each unique in its own way. There are lush rainforests at the Poomaale Collective, Coorg and there are tropical scrublands in the dry and rocky Hyderabad Collective. Having 100+ acres of land in each of our Farming Collectives not just helps us to make use of the abundant natural resources efficiently, but also allows us to explore micro landscapes within estates. We witnessed this diversity of landscapes in our first Wilderness Collective – the Poomaale Estate. Nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, it is full of flowing streams, wetlands, perennial trees, coffee forests, rich biodiversity and the most intriguing of all, the Shola Grasslands.

The presence of Shola Grasslands on our estate fills us with joy, pride and a feeling of responsibility to conserve them as they have been shrinking for the past century due to numerous overlapping reasons. Here’s all you need to know about these unique grasslands of the southern Western Ghats, how they have evolved over the years and what we can do to preserve this natural heritage.

What are Shola Grasslands?

Sholas, derived from the Tamil word ‘Solai’ meaning tropical rainforest, are unique tropical montane forests endemic to the Western Ghats of India. Spread variably in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Southern Karnataka, Shola forests or grasslands are characterized by their rolling grasslands adorned with a variety of grasses, evergreen vegetation and stunted trees. They are now part of a forest ecosystem that is older than humans! Studies have shown that these grassland patches have existed for more than 20,000 years.

Shola forests and grassland are found at elevations exceeding 1500 metres and possess distinct ecological characteristics. They have a remarkably high water retention capacity and act as colossal sponges that release water gradually, becoming an important source for the rivers of South India. 

Are Shola Grasslands & Shola Forests Different from Each Other?

Shola grasslands and Shola forests are distinct components of the same ecosystem found in the Western Ghats. Shola grasslands refer to the upper portion of the Shola ecosystem, characterized by grassy meadows. On the other hand, Shola forests are found at higher elevations within this ecosystem. They can be observed in various regions including the Nilgiris, Annamalais, Coorg, Wayanad, Babu Budangiri, Satara, and Kudremukha.

The ratio of Shola forests to grasslands is approximately 1:5, indicating that Shola grasslands cover a larger area compared to Shola forests within the ecosystem. A fascinating (and mysterious) aspect of Shola forests is the presence of Himalayan plants like rhododendron. Paleobotanical studies hypothesize that these plants are remnants of vegetation that migrated to South India during the Quaternary Ice Age, around 2.6 million years ago, due to subsequent changes in the tropical climate of South India. This further goes to show the extent of complexity of these ecological zones.

Colonisation & Sholas

The history of Sholas is intertwined with the impacts of colonization on both the social and natural ecosystems of India. During the colonial period, these unique Shola grasslands were viewed merely as unproductive lands, leading to experimental plantations and the introduction of exotic species. The British introduced species such as eucalyptus, acacia, pine, Sticky Snakeroot, Gorse, and Scotch Broom from Australia, primarily for their economic interests. Tea plantations in this majorly coffee-growing zone were also introduced during the same time. Unfortunately, these introduced species have rapidly spread and encroached upon the grasslands, gradually overshadowing their natural composition.

Originally, the Shola grasslands covered approximately 87% of the plateau, but today they exist only in small, spread-out, isolated pockets. The cultivation of tea, wattle, and eucalyptus has significantly diminished the extent of the Shola forest-grassland ecosystem. This reduction in the natural Shola vegetation has resulted in the loss and fragmentation of this unique ecosystem, negatively impacting its biodiversity and ecological integrity.

Ecological Significance of Shola Grasslands

The ecological significance of Shola grasslands is multifaceted and crucial for the sustainability of the region. These grasslands serve as vast water storage units in hilly areas, accumulating and retaining significant amounts of water. They have been vital in the origination of many perennial rivers; however, the depletion of Sholas has led to the drying up of these rivers during the summer season. The grasslands play a pivotal role in providing a consistent water supply for both human and wildlife populations by effectively harvesting rainwater and maintaining abundant reserves. This unique function has earned them the names “nature’s water towers” or “overhead water tanks,” as they are the originators of rivers. The ecosystem’s health directly impacts the livelihoods and survival of both hill and plain communities.

Shola grasslands are renowned for their rich biodiversity, serving as habitats for numerous unique species, including several endemics. Notably, they are home to the Nilgiri Tahr, the sole mountain goat species found in South India. These ecosystems also host many undiscovered species, highlighting their potential as sources of new scientific knowledge. 

Biodiversity of Shola Grasslands

Sholas exhibit remarkable biodiversity, showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna. These unique ecosystems are home to a plethora of species, including orchids, tigers, leopards, frogs, snakes, and critically endangered species like the lion-tailed macaques. Sholas also provide habitat for large land mammals such as Asiatic elephants (one of the most social animals on the planet), Indian gaur, Sambar deer, spotted deer, tigers, leopards, and black leopards. Camera traps installed in the Shola forests aid in identifying biodiversity and tracking the movement patterns of these species.

Reptiles and amphibians hold a special place within the wildlife of Sholas. The grasslands and forests are also home to the “big four” Indian snakes, including the King Cobra, which is the world’s largest venomous snake. The presence of these snakes also reveals a lot about the health of a forest. Among the amphibians, the Indigo Bush frog stands out, being exclusively found in the Shola grasslands of the Western Ghats. The streams of Sholas also support unique frog species, such as the Dancing frogs.

The vegetation of Sholas is equally diverse, featuring a variety of orchids and the famous Neelakurinji flowers that bloom only once in 12 years! These ecosystems also attract a wide range of bird species, both small and large. Songbirds like bulbuls, birds of prey like raptors and even gregarious birds like the bee-eaters happily call the Shola forests their home.

Threats to Shola Grasslands & Shola Forests

Shola grasslands and forests face several threats that jeopardize their existence and ecological balance. Over the last century, the Shola grasslands experienced a significant decline, shrinking by 66.7%. The expansion of plantations featuring exotic species in the Nilgiris poses a grave risk to the native Shola vegetation. Invasive species further exacerbate the threat to Shola grasslands and forests, disrupting their natural composition and functions.

The loss of Shola grasslands not only results in the depletion of water resources in the region but also increases the likelihood of landslides. These grasslands are becoming increasingly fragmented, limiting their ability to support diverse and healthy ecosystems. The local endemic species, such as the Nilgiri pipit, face a threat to their habitat and survival due to the loss of Shola vegetation.

Expanding agricultural activities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu have encroached upon significant portions of Shola forests. Forest fires also pose a risk, as they stunt the undergrowth and promote the spread of invasive grasses and weeds. Additionally, tourist activities in popular destinations like Ooty, Munnar, and Ponmudi contribute to the pressure on Shola ecosystems.

Why is it Necessary to Conserve the Shola Grasslands & Shola Forests?

The restoration of Shola vegetation is a challenging task due to the specific requirements of Shola seedlings, which thrive under shade rather than in open grasslands. Once the Shola vegetation disappears from its original habitat due to factors like climate change and invasive growth, it becomes extremely difficult to reintroduce and revive it.

The loss of Sholas also entails the loss of undiscovered species that remain hidden within these unique ecosystems. As habitats shrink, countless species that could have contributed to our understanding of biodiversity may never be discovered.

Moreover, the significance of Sholas extends beyond their ecological value. They serve as the source of rivers, which provide freshwater to those residing in the plains. If the Sholas are eradicated, the loss of these ecosystems would also mean the loss of the essential water sources on which countless lives depend.

Can the Lost Shola Grasslands be Brought Back?

Restoring the lost Shola grasslands is a complex challenge with no easy solution. Removing plantations that have replaced the grasslands may seem like a potential solution, but clear-felling these plantations poses ecological problems of its own. Once a plantation is manually cleared, the land becomes susceptible to weed infestation, and invasive species like eucalyptus and pine tend to proliferate even more densely than before. This makes the revival of grasslands extremely difficult, even with dedicated efforts. Thus, it is crucial to prevent further encroachment of plantations into the Sholas by leaving existing plantations undisturbed.

In contrast, the grasslands thrive when left untouched, as they are remarkably self-sustaining ecosystems with a higher species diversity. Preserving the remaining 15% of the grasslands becomes a critical priority. Conservation efforts are not just a necessity but also a responsibility to ensure the inheritance of these beautiful landscapes for future generations. By safeguarding and protecting these ecosystems, we can fulfil our obligation to preserve the unique and invaluable Shola grasslands.

Shola grasslands are a significant part of the wilderness zone in the Poomaale Estate, Coorg. You can explore the richness of these landscapes too with a trip to Poomaale and a stay at the environment-friendly Blyton Bungalow.