Central Idea
- Gujarat has issued a circular to control the growth of the exotic species Conocarpus, citing adverse impacts on the environment and human health.
About Conocarpus Plant
- Classified as invasive, Conocarpus is a mangrove
- During the winter season, these trees produce flowers, releasing pollen in nearby regions.
- In India, various public authorities have used it for landscaping purposes, including road medians, roadsides, and public gardens.
- This tree is renowned for maintaining its dark green foliage year-round, even in harsh environmental conditions like extreme temperatures.
- Its adaptability allows it to thrive in highly saline areas.
- Conocarpus exhibits an excessive water-absorption trait from the soil, posing a threat to groundwater.
- Its deep root system can disrupt infrastructure communication cables, drainage lines, and potable water pipelines.
Previous bans
- Telangana had previously banned the same plant species due to concerns over its impact.
- Conocarpus is not the sole exotic plant species to fall out of favor.
- In recent years, Delhi and Kerala have grappled with the need to curb the growth of non-indigenous trees that were adversely affecting local environments, flora, and fauna due to their prolific presence.
