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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)