Rapid Fire
Study Advocates Removal of Exotic Plant Species
- 04 May 2024
- 1 min read
A recent study conducted by the Kerala State Forest Protective Staff Organisation (KSFPSO), an association of frontline forest officers highlights the importance of removing exotic plant species from forests to ensure ample food for wild animals, particularly elephants, at Chinnakkanal in Munnar, Kerala.
- The KSFPSO emphasises the necessity of removing exotic species like Acacia mearnsii (black wattle) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus teriticornis) from forest areas to mitigate human-elephant conflicts.
- Exotic plants inhibit the growth of other species and restrict animal movement, leading to food scarcity for wildlife.
- Changing these areas to natural grasslands will provide food and water for wild elephants at Chinnakkanal and improve the landscape.
- The Chinnakkanal landscape is overrun by West Indian Lantana (kongini), hindering the growth of diverse vegetation and posing challenges for animal access.
- Nearly 4,000 hectares of forestland in the district are affected by exotic species, impacting prey availability and consequently attracting predators like tigers and leopards to adjacent areas.
Read more: Invasive Alien Species , Planting of Exotic Trees in Nilgiris is Harmful
