Senna spectabilis is an invasive plant species that poses a significant threat to the native ecosystems of the Western Ghats. This species is known for its rapid and aggressive spread, leading to disruptions in local biodiversity.
Senna spectabilis has spread extensively within the Western Ghats, notably in areas such as:
This invasive species forms dense thickets that crowd out native plants. This results in reduced biodiversity and disrupts the ecological balance of the forests.
Moreover, as Senna spectabilis encroaches on animal habitats, it forces wildlife to seek refuge in human settlements, leading to increased human-animal conflicts.
In Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the spread of Senna spectabilis has escalated from 14.6 square kilometers in 2013 to a staggering 123 square kilometers today. This rapid expansion has raised concerns among conservationists.
To combat this invasive species, the Forest Department has initiated control measures. They plan to uproot and girdle Senna spectabilis trees, prioritizing those with a girth of over 10 cm to effectively curb its spread and protect native ecosystems.
An adult Senna spectabilis tree can produce approximately 238.9 seed pods, each containing around 103.3 seeds. This high reproductive capacity contributes significantly to its rapid spread across regions.
Besides Wayanad, Senna spectabilis is also affecting various other parts of South India, including:
Controlling Senna spectabilis is crucial to preserving biodiversity, maintaining ecological balance, and preventing the degradation of wildlife habitats. It is also essential for reducing human-animal conflicts.
The next step in the eradication plan involves the Forest Department commencing the uprooting project, focusing on the most affected areas within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. This initiative aims to mitigate the spread of Senna spectabilis and restore native ecosystems.
Q1. What is Senna spectabilis?
Answer: Senna spectabilis is an invasive plant species that disrupts native ecosystems by spreading rapidly and forming dense thickets, leading to biodiversity loss.
Q2. Where is Senna spectabilis predominantly found?
Answer: It is primarily found in the Western Ghats, especially in protected areas like Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Q3. How does Senna spectabilis affect wildlife?
Answer: This invasive species forces wildlife out of their natural habitats, resulting in increased human-animal conflicts as animals encroach on human settlements.
Q4. What measures are being taken to control Senna spectabilis?
Answer: The Forest Department is implementing control measures such as uprooting and girdling trees to limit the spread of Senna spectabilis and protect local ecosystems.
Q5. Why is it important to control invasive species like Senna spectabilis?
Answer: Controlling invasive species is vital for preserving biodiversity, maintaining ecological balance, and ensuring the integrity of wildlife habitats in affected regions.
Question 1: What is the primary threat posed by Senna spectabilis in the Western Ghats?
A) Enhancing biodiversity
B) Disrupting native ecosystems
C) Increasing wildlife populations
D) Improving soil quality
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which area is NOT mentioned as being affected by Senna spectabilis?
A) Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
B) Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
C) Sundarbans Reserve
D) Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What control measures are planned for Senna spectabilis?
A) Planting more native species
B) Uprooting and girdling invasive trees
C) Using chemical pesticides
D) Ignoring its spread
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How many seed pods does an adult Senna spectabilis produce on average?
A) 100 pods
B) 238.9 pods
C) 500 pods
D) 50 pods
Correct Answer: B
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