Q. Consider the following :
- Cashew
- Papaya
- Red sanders
How many of the above trees are actually native to India?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Answer: (a) Only one
Notes:
- Cashew: The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale) is native to northeastern Brazil. It was introduced to India by Portuguese colonists. Hence, the cashew tree is not native to India.
- Papaya: The papaya tree (Carica papaya) is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, particularly southern Mexico and Central America. It was introduced to India and is now widely cultivated, but it is not native to India.
- Red sanders: The Red Sanders tree (Pterocarpus santalinus) is native to the southern parts of India, particularly in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is valued for its rich red-colored wood.
Red Sanders:
- The species, Pterocarpus santalinus, is an Indian endemic tree species, with a restricted geographical range in the Eastern Ghats.
- The species is endemic to a distinct tract of forests in Andhra Pradesh.
- Red Sanders usually grow in the rocky, degraded and fallow lands with Red Soil and hot and dry climate.
- Threats:
- Illicit felling for smuggling, forest fires, cattle grazing and other anthropogenic threats.
- Red Sanders, known for their rich hue and therapeutic properties, are high in demand across Asia, particularly in China and Japan, for use in cosmetics and medicinal products as well as for making furniture, woodcraft and musical instruments.
- Protection Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered.
