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Eucalyptus

28th May, 2024

Eucalyptus

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Context:

  • Protest is brewing in Kerala over the recent decision of the state forest department to allow planting of eucalyptus trees in the reserve forest areas of the state.

Eucalyptus

  • Scientific Classification:
    • Genus: Eucalyptus
    • Family: Myrtaceae
  • Common Names: Gum trees, Eucalypts
  • Native Range: Predominantly native to Australia, but also found in New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
  • Growth Habit: Evergreen trees or large shrubs.
  • Height: Varies significantly; some species are small shrubs while others can exceed 60 meters in height.
  • Habitat: Adaptable to a wide range of habitats including forests, woodlands, and scrublands.

Ecological Benefits

  • Fire Adaptation: Many species are fire-resistant and can regenerate after bushfires.
  • Biodiversity: Provide habitat and food for various wildlife, including koalas, which primarily feed on eucalyptus leaves.

Economic Importance

  • Timber: Used for construction, furniture, and pulpwood for paper production.
  • Essential Oil: Eucalyptus oil is extracted for medicinal, industrial, and aromatic uses.
  • Ornamental Use: Popular in landscaping for their attractive foliage and rapid growth.

Health Benefits

  • Antiseptic Properties: Eucalyptus oil is used for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
  • Respiratory Relief: Common ingredient in cough lozenges and inhalants for treating colds and respiratory conditions.

Other significance

  • Cultural Significance: Symbolically important in Australian culture and used in Aboriginal traditional medicine.
  • Research: Ongoing studies on eucalyptus genetics, disease resistance, and their ecological impact.

Environmental Impact

  • Invasive Potential: Some eucalyptus species are invasive outside their native range, notably in California, South Africa, and parts of the Mediterranean.
  • Water Use: High water consumption, which can impact local water resources and soil moisture levels.
  • Allelopathy: Some species release chemicals that inhibit the growth of surrounding vegetation.

Source:

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_international/issues/84711/OPS/G5DCRQTAP.1.png?cropFromPage=true

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the significance of eucalyptus highlighting its ecological impacts in India. (250 words)