The public exhibition space outside Bengaluru’s Vidhana Soudha is currently hosting a unique display of fifteen elephant figurines, all made from a plant that has proven both toxic and invasive to Indian ecosystems – Lantana camara. The choice of materials and the particular setting are far from random, shedding light on an environmental issue of growing concern for India.
The Origins and Characteristics of Lantana Camara
Lantana camara originates from the tropical regions of the Americas. It is a robust perennial shrub belonging to the Verbenaceae family. This plant demonstrates a remarkable resilience to changing climate patterns, tolerating high temperatures and conditions of high moisture with ease.
Despite its aesthetic appeal, Lantana camara is listed among the globe’s ten most invasive species. The seemingly harmless garden decorative brought by British colonials has now become an ecological nightmare. India, in particular, has been severely affected by the rampant spread of this invasive plant.
Lantana Camara’s Invasion of India
It began its journey in India as an ornamental shrub during the British colonial period. Appreciated for its colourful flowers, Lantana camara was a desirable addition to gardens. Unfortunately, over time, it proved to be disastrous for several ecosystems across the country.
The plant’s invasive nature came to light as it started overriding native flora in diverse ecosystems. Its rapid growth and ability to propagate quickly meant it soon overtook local plants, leaving them struggling for survival.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve: A Case Study of Lantana Camara Invasion
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, situated in the Western Ghats’ unique biodiverse region, offers a stark illustration of the devastation caused by the Lantana camara. Here, the invasion of this hardy, aggressive plant is at its most evident, with vast areas falling under its grip.
The green expanses of the Reserve, once home to a variety of plant species, have been significantly transformed. The invasive Lantana camara dominates the landscape, creating a significant threat to local biodiversity.
Elephant Figurines: An Artistic Response to the Lantana Problem
The display of elephant figurines made of Lantana camara at the Vidhana Soudha is an artistic response to this environmental predicament. By using this invasive plant as a material for sculpture, the artists hope to raise awareness about Lantana camara’s destructive impact on India’s ecosystems.
This innovative and thought-provoking exhibit serves two key purposes. Firstly, it highlights the environmental menace posed by Lantana camara in an attractive, accessible format. Secondly, it suggests possible uses for this widespread plant that could help manage its presence and reduce its overall environmental impact.
The Lantana Elephant Display: A Symbol of Change and Action
The elephant, a symbol of strength, wisdom, and patience, is also indicative of the urgent need for action to address the Lantana camara problem. The choice of elephants as the subject of these sculptures is significant on multiple levels.
In addition to their cultural and religious significance in India, elephants also rely heavily on habitats being destroyed by the invasive Lantana camara. The display, therefore, is a call to action for preserving nature and biodiversity, and managing the damaging impacts of invasive species.
The display of Lantana camara elephant figurines outside Bengaluru’s Vidhana Soudha is more than just an art exhibition. It’s a plea for awareness, understanding, and ultimately, intervention in the ongoing ecological crisis posed by this invasive plant.
