The Kerala Government is currently strategizing to control the unchecked growth of invasive plant species, primarily Senna spectabilis, within the forested region of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR). This includes areas within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The uncontrolled growth of this particular plant is linked to the mass flowering and subsequent death of multiple bamboo species in Wayanad, which has resulted in vast open spaces (78.91 sq km) being overrun by Senna spectabilis. The plant is also encroaching upon other important conservation areas such as the Bandipur and Nagarhole tiger reserves in Karnataka and Mudumalai tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu.
About Senna spectabilis
A deciduous tree native to the tropical regions of America, Senna spectabilis can grow rapidly, reaching heights of 15 to 20 meters in a relatively short period of time. After each flowering season, it distributes thousands of seeds. This plant is detrimental to biodiversity as its dense foliage inhibits the growth of native tree and grass species. As a result, food availability for wild animal populations, particularly herbivores, is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the presence of Senna spectabilis adversely impacts the germination and development of native species. According to the IUCN Red List, it is classified as ‘Least Concern’, an indication of its adaptability and survivability.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
As an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary shares its ecological and geographic continuity with other prominent protected areas such as the Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagarhole National Park in the northeast of Karnataka, and the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in southeast Tamil Nadu. Renowned for hosting the world’s largest population of Asiatic elephants, this sanctuary holds great ecological significance. Almost all of Wayanad district is drained by the Kabini River and its three tributaries, the Panamaram, Mananthavady, and Kalindy rivers. The Kabini River, which flows eastwards, is a vital tributary of the Kaveri River.
Important Facts
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Area overrun by Senna spectabilis in Wayanad | 78.91 sq km |
| Height reached by Senna spectabilis | 15 to 20 meters |
| Status of Senna spectabilis on IUCN Red List | ‘Least Concern’ |
| Number of tributaries of the Kabini River | Three: Panamaram, Mananthavady, Kalindy |
| Largest population of | Asiatic elephants in Wayanad Sanctuary |
The Impact on Other Conservation Areas
The unchecked growth of Senna spectabilis not only affects the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary but also poses a threat to other protected areas, such as the Bandipur and Nagarhole tiger reserves in Karnataka and the Mudumalai tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu. The invasion of this plant can lead to a significant disruption in the local ecosystem due to its rapid growth and the subsequent reduction in food availability for native animal species.
