Cuscuta dodder

Source-This post on Cuscuta dodder is based on the article “Parasitic creeper preys on Chengalpet forests, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary” published in “The New Indian Express” on 12th February 2024.

Why in the News?

The invasive weed Cuscuta dodder is gradually choking the Chengalpet forests and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. This poses a threat to the local vegetation, ecology, and the habitat of migratory birds.

About Cuscuta dodder

1. It is an invasive weed native to North America.

2. This rootless parasitic vine has invaded acres of trees in the Chengalpet reserve forests and is now spreading within Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary.

3. It has been observed that dodder covering the canopy of Barringtonia trees, which are favored nesting spots for migratory water birds.

4. This holoparasitic plant forms a canopy on the host plant and sends out numerous tendrils.  It creates a dense mass that eventually chokes and kills the host.

5. Dodder has been designated as a ‘declared noxious weed‘ in 25 countries, where the importation of its seeds and plant material is prohibited. In the United States, it stands as the sole weed seed whose transportation is forbidden in all states.

6. Cuscuta seeds are spheroid with a tough coat which allows them to survive up to 50 years in dry storage and at least 10 years in the field.

7. Cuscuta seeds can germinate without needing a specific stimulant, unlike root parasites.

Note– A technical paper from the National Research Centre for Weed Science in India highlights Cuscuta as a significant issue in oilseeds, pulses, and fodder crops across Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Orissa, West Bengal, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. These concerns persist whether the crops are grown under rain-fed or irrigated conditions.

About Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

1. Location– It is a 30-hectare protected area situated in Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu.

2. Significant Feature– It is the oldest water bird sanctuary in the country.

3. Migratory species– The area is a habitat for migratory birds like pintail, garganey, grey wagtail, blue-winged teal, common sandpiper, and others.

4. Ramsar site– Since 2022, it has been recognized as a protected Ramsar site.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in news)