Context:
The Forest Department of Tamil Nadu has cleared 356.50 hectares of invasive growth of Senna spectabilis that posed a threat to biodiversity conservation in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR).
Relevance:
Facts for Prelims
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Senna Spectabilis
- Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
About Senna Spectabilis:
- Senna spectabilis is a plant species of the legume family (Fabaceae) native to South and Central America.
- The plant has become an invasive alien species in parts of Africa, India and other countries.
- The thick foliage of the tree arrests the growth of other indigenous tree and grass species.Hence,it causes food shortage for the wildlife population especially herbivores.
- It also adversely affects the germination and growth of the native species.
- It is categorised as ‘Least Concern’ under IUCN Red List.
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
Geographical Location:
- Positioned at the confluence of the Eastern and Western Ghats, it resides within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, situated in the Erode District of Tamil Nadu.
Contiguity and Connectivity:
- Adjacent to the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, it shares borders with the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka, as well as the BR Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, fostering a connected ecosystem.
Diverse Vegetation:
- Encompassing southern tropical dry thorn forests, mixed deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and Riparian forests, the reserve boasts rich and varied vegetation.
Rivers Flowing Through:
- The Bhavani, Moyar, and Noyyal rivers traverse the region, adding to its ecological significance.
Indigenous Tribal Presence:
- Home to indigenous tribal communities, notably the Irula and Kurumba tribes, the reserve reflects cultural diversity alongside its ecological wealth.
Floral Composition:
- A variety of trees and shrubs populate the reserve, including Albizia amara, Chloroxylon swietenia, Gyrocarpus jacquini, Neem, Tamarind, Sandalwood, Randia dumetorum, and Zizyphus.
Rich Fauna:
- The reserve is inhabited by diverse wildlife, featuring prominent species such as Elephants, Tigers, Panthers, Sloth Bears, Gaurs, Black Bucks, Spotted Deer, and Bonnet Macaques.
-Source: The Hindu
