Important Facts For Prelims
Chenkurinji
- 06 Jul 2022
- 2 min read
Why in News?
Chekuriniji has been affected due to climate change, so, there are different conservation measures are being inducted.
What do we know about the Species?
- Chenkurinji (Gluta travancorica), is a species endemic to the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, and inspired the name of the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The Anacardiaceae family tree was once abundant in the hills on the southern parts of Aryankavu Pass, but its presence has been rapidly declining over the years.
- Gluta travancorica flowers in January on average, but the species has recently reported a tendency to extend the process due to climate change.
- It's used to treat lower blood pressure and treat arthritis.
What is Agasthyamal Biosphere Reserve?
- The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, located in the Western Ghats in the country's south, has peaks that rise 1,868 metres above sea level.
- The site, which is mostly tropical forest, is home to various species of higher plants, including which are endemic in nature.
- It is also a unique genetic reservoir for cultivated plants, particularly cardamom, jamune, nutmeg, pepper, and plantain.
- The site contains three wildlife sanctuaries, Shendurney, Peppara, and Neyyar, as well as the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger reserve.
What type of conservation measures is being Implemented?
- ‘Save Chenkurinji’, a campaign to be implemented in various areas coming under the Achencoil Forest Division.
- It aims to plant thousands of saplings as part of the campaign in the ghat sectors of the Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts.
- Approximately 75 schools in the area where Chenkurinji will be grown with student help.
- Saplings will be planted in public places in addition to schools, and the forest department has already cultivated thousands of seedlings for Save Chenkurinji.
