Carnivores of Himalayas

PhD Student - Jenis Patel

Program - High Altitude Program

Guide - Kulbhushansingh Suryawanshi

Community structure is a pattern of species' presence, absence and abundance in a certain area. This community structure is generally shaped by two major processes. The first is a niche-based deterministic process in which habitat and species interactions determine community structure. Second, a stochastic process shapes community structure through speciation (the process of populations evolving to become distinct species) and dispersal. Community structure varies across space and time as a result of these two processes.

Here is an attempt to study these processes on multiple spatial scales to gain a better understanding of carnivore assemblages in high mountain regions in Asia.

Jenis is studying carnivore assemblages in the Himalayas at different spatial scales. How do evolutionary and biogeographic factors shape assemblages? Factors like speciation, extirpation, and dispersal over geological time scales across the biomes.

What kind of interactions do these species have with each other? Is there a spatial or temporal avoidance between them? Or are they more concerned about their prey than other carnivores nearby? 15 pairs of carnivores and their prey were quantified across high altitudes of Himachal Pradesh.

In order to understand such intersections on a finer scale, we use GPS collars to collect movement data from foxes. We are trying to understand how dog presence affects fox movement.

Towards developing green energy while protecting prime wildlife habitat, I have dedicated a chapter in my thesis. We have used species distribution models to guide the construction of solar panels in prime snow leopard habitats so as to minimise their impact on wildlife. Moreover, we recommended that solar panel projects be placed in areas that are not optimal for wildlife.

Jenis is a calm and composed guy from a small town in Gujarat (Bilimora, between the Arabian coast and the Shayadris). He did his undergrad in biotechnology and a masters in environmental science. Apart from researching on anything that is a predator, he enjoys insect photography and telling stories through cool maps.