Context:
Parasitic creeper cuscuta preys on Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Cuscuta Dodder:
- An invasive weed or a parasitic vine without roots
- Also known as Akashbel or Amarbel
- Native to – North America
- Designated as a ‘declared noxious weed‘in many countries – Import of its seeds and plant material are prohibited.
- In the United States, it stands as the sole weed seed whose transportation is forbidden in all states.
- This parasitic angiosperm plant grows a large cover on the host plant and sends out many tendrils
- It creates a thick display before it chokes and finally kills the host plant
- Significance –
- Nesting spots for migratory water birds.
- 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.
Holoparasitic plants – Plants that are not capable of photosynthesis and obtain all nutrients and water from a host plant
- Lacks Cholorophyll – Have very thin, sting-like twining yellow stems that appear to be leafless
- Seeds can survive up to 50 years in dry storage and at least 10 years in the field due to its tough coat and can germinate without any specific stimulant, unlike root parasites.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary:
- State – Tamil Nadu
- Belongs to the Coromandel Coast biotic province
- River – Palar river
- Significance –
- Oldest water bird sanctuary in the country
- Favorable habitat for migratory birds
- Recognized as a protected Ramsar site since 2002
Source: New Indian Express
Previous Year Question
Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in news?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2018 Prelims]
(a) Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.
(b) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.
(c) Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides.
(d) None of the above
Answer: (b)
