Balachandra Hegde, Manu G. and Yogendra Kambalagere
Abstract
This study investigates the microclimatic range and ecological niche of Elaeocarpus tuberculatus dominated swamp forests in the central Western Ghats, revealing their critical role as thermal and moisture refugia. Using high-resolution temperature and soil moisture monitoring across swamp interiors and forest edges, along with MODIS-derived land surface temperatures, we show strong seasonal buffering in swamp habitats. Swamps maintained cooler conditions in summer and warmer ones in winter compared to surrounding open areas, and retained significantly higher soil moisture year-round. The spatial modelling of potential swamp habitat further identifies underexplored elevational zones for future conservation. These findings position Elaeocarpus tuberculatus swamps as vital microrefugia in a warming climate, emphasizing their ecological significance and need for targeted protection.