Casuarina Plant: Benefits and Uses II Current Affairs UPSC

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Context:

Six years after the devastation caused by Cyclone Gaja, Vedaranyam taluk, once known for its flourishing casuarina (savukku) plantations, is seeing a revival as farmers prepare for their first harvest in five years.

Casuarina

*About*	Casuarina, also known as she-oak or savukku, is a genus of flowering plants. It is also known as kattadi and savukku.
*Scientific Name:*	*Casuarina equisetifolia.*
*Characteristics*	Casuarina plants are known for their long, slender branches that resemble ferns. They are hardy and can withstand drought, salt spray, and windy conditions.
*Adaptability*	Casuarina trees can grow in a wide range of soils and climates, including those with limited moisture and nutrients. They can tolerate temperatures from 10°C to 33°C, and mean annual rainfall between 700 and 2000 mm.
*Distribution*	They are native to Australia, India, Southeast Asia, and other regions.
*Benefits*	Erosion control: Casuarina plants' extensive root systems help stabilise coastal dunes and prevent erosion in coastal regions. Reforestation: Casuarina plants are used in reforestation projects. Soil fertility: Casuarina plants fix nitrogen from the air, which enhances soil fertility. Wood: Casuarina wood is used for making furniture, fence posts, and paper pulp.

Important articles for reference:

Cyclone Gaja

Tropical Cyclones

Sources:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/casuarina-farming-sees-resurgence-in-vedaranyam-six-years-after-cyclone-gaja/article68697696.ece

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements about the “Casuarina plants” recently seen in the news:

They are a genus of non-flowering plants.
They are known to withstand drought, salt spray, and windy conditions.
They are mostly grown in coastal landscapes.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C. All Three

D.None

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect:

Casuarina, also known as she-oak or savukku, is a genus of flowering plants.

It is also known as kattadi and savukku.

Statement 2 is correct:

Casuarina plants are known for their long, slender branches that resemble ferns.

They are hardy and can withstand drought, salt spray, and windy conditions.

Statement 3 is correct:

Casuarina trees can grow in a wide range of soils and climates, including those with limited moisture and nutrients. They can tolerate temperatures from 10°C to 33°C, and mean annual rainfall between 700 and 2000 mm.

Casuarina plants are a popular choice for coastal landscapes.