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Source: The post is based on the article “Triple trouble for Gulf of Mannar islands, study finds” published in The Hindu on 3rd April 2023.
What is the News?
According to an avian distribution study, Prosopis chilensis, an alien invasive plant is threatening to pulverise native vegetation across 21 islands in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (GoMBR).
About Prosopis chilensis
Prosopis chilensis is a drought-resistant plant native to the arid regions of four South American countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
It is a small to medium-sized legume tree that grows up to 12 m in height and 1 m in diameter.
It is also known as Chilean mesquite.
| Read more: The threat posed by invasive alien species on native ecosystem and ways to tackle them |
What are the findings of the study on Prosopis chilensis?
The study found the Prosopis chilensis in seven or eight islands. This will a) Slowly kill the native trees, b) Cause irreparable damage to the mangroves and c) Create indiscriminate destruction of marine life.
The study could not find any major studies on the invasiveness of this species or how it came to India.
Note: Prosopis juliflora is another invasive species found in the Deccan Plateau, specifically Tamil Nadu. It was introduced by the British in 1877 to green the arid tracts.
| Read more: Fishermen raise concern over invasive species of mussel in Ennore and Pulicat |
About the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve
Distribution: This Biosphere Reserve encompasses a chain of 21 islands (2 islands already submerged) and adjoining coral reefs off the coasts of the Ramanathapuram and the Tuticorin districts of Tamil Nadu.
Significance:
-It is India’s first marine biosphere reserve. It is also the first maritime biosphere reserve in South and South East Asia.
-It is one of the important habitats for coastal birds migrating as far as the Arctic Circle. The 21 islands also serve as resting places for birds migrating to and from the nearby Sri Lankan islands.
-Gulf of Mannar region in Tamil Nadu is one of the four major coral reef areas. The others are the Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat, Lakhsadweep and Andaman and Nicobar islands.
| Read more: Gulf of Mannar |
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