Prelims – Environmental Ecology & Climate Change.
Mains (GS III) – Biodiversity, Environment and conservation.
Why in the News?
Jacaranda trees in Munnar, Kerala, are currently in full bloom, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts.
- It blooms between February and April, enhancing tourism in hill stations.
- Local Name –Neelavaka in Kerala.
- Family – Bignoniaceae.
- Type – Deciduous tree.
- Native to - Central and South America, Cuba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.
- Introduced to India and other tropical regions by British for ornamental purposes
- Locations Found – Munnar (Kerala), Bengaluru, Delhi, and other urban areas as an ornamental tree.
- Climatic Conditions - Present in Sub-tropical climates, Need well-drained soil, Cultivated in warm regions and greenhouses.
- Features - It has striking lavender-hued blossoms, Vibrant blue or violet flowers, Distinct and oppositely arranged compound leaves.
- The flower emits UV to attract insects, especially butterflies or birds, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the bluish violet colours of the flower disappears when the pollination is completed.
- Importance - It attracts hummingbirds and bees, wood is used in guitar-making, the Bark and roots have medicinal properties.
- Concerns
- Climate Change – Some trees have started early blooming and this can be due to climate change.
- Non – native species – It has potential to be an invasive species affecting our local ecosystems.
- Conservation Status – IUCN - "Vulnerable".
Reference
The Hindu | Jacaranda Trees
