'Stop planting exotic Conocarpus species'

TN issues advisory to replace Conocarpus with native species citing its invasive nature, ill-effects on human beings

- S GODSON WISELY DASS @Thoothukudi

THE Tamil Nadu government has issued orders to stop the planting of exotic Conocarpus plants in forest and non-forest areas, considering its adverse impacts, which were noted by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest. The Department of Environment and Climate Change has permitted the district-level green committee to issue blanket permissions to the various departments concerned to replace Conocarpus plants with native species.

The Conocarpus species of the Combretaceae family is native to tropical countries and exhibits invasive nature due to its rapid growth and resistance to drought conditions. Introduced as an ornamental plant, it has been extensively planted in Tamil Nadu, along the central median of roads, public gardens, children's parks, as it maintains dark green leaf cover throughout the year, withstands harsh environmental conditions and is capable of adapting to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. It was also a preferred species for various urban green initiatives including those launched by the state government.