Manu is from Kerala and he grew up in and around Kadamane in Karnataka. He has been an integral part of NCF’s research and restoration team in the central Western Ghats since 2022. A plant enthusiast and phenology detective, he can identify many woody plants and their phenophases. He plays key roles in our long-term ecological monitoring, nursery, ecological restoration, and other research activities. Manu is a curious and enthusiastic learner who enjoys studying birds, plants, seed dispersal, plant germination, and growth. Passionate about photography, he is an active contributor to iNaturalist. He is a reliable and fun field partner with great problem-solving skills and a knack for finding the best lunch spots in the field. An ardent animal lover, he is the pet parent of three indie dogs and a cat.