The comparison of shape indices and perimeter interface of selected protected areas especially with reference to Sariska Tiger Reserve, India

Abstract

The extent of interface between wilderness and human dominated landscape is one of many factors that determine the disturbance intensity endured by the biological diversity of any particular area. The intensity of human-wildlife conflict is the secondary outcome of that interface. Perimeter interface per unit area (PIPUA) of any reserve or protected area (PA) can be defined as the ratio of length of the interface of wilderness area and human dominated landscape on the perimeter, to the total area of the PA or reserve. The comparison of Sariska tiger reserve with other tiger reserves across the nation reveals a very high PIPUA index responsible for very high anthropogenic pressures on the biological diversity of this landscape. There should be some sort of minimum PIPUA while notifying any landscape as a protected area. The excess PIPUA of any protected area can only be minimized by relocating or displacing the villages from the protected areas and/or by creating a fence at the interface thus making conditions for inviolate space.