Why is a plant called Prosopis juliflora often mentioned in news ?

[amp_mcq option1=”Its extract is widely used in cosmetics.” option2=”It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.” option3=”Its extract is used in the synthesis of pesticides.” option4=”None of the above” correct=”option2″]

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2018

Download PDF Attempt Online

The correct answer is B) It tends to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.

Prosopis juliflora is a highly invasive species native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. It was introduced to many parts of the world, including India, often for purposes like fuelwood, fodder, or soil stabilization in arid regions. However, it has become notorious for its invasive characteristics.
– It grows rapidly, forms dense thickets, and outcompetes native vegetation for water, sunlight, and nutrients.
– It alters soil properties and microhabitats.
– This aggressive growth and competition lead to a significant reduction in native plant species diversity.
– The reduced plant diversity impacts the fauna that depend on native plants for food and shelter, leading to a decline in overall biodiversity in areas it colonizes.
Therefore, its tendency to reduce biodiversity is the primary ecological reason it is often mentioned in news, usually in a negative context regarding environmental management and conservation efforts.

While Prosopis juliflora does have uses (fuelwood, pods for fodder, wood for charcoal), its negative ecological impacts as an invasive species often outweigh its benefits, particularly in fragile ecosystems like grasslands and arid/semi-arid areas. Control and eradication efforts are ongoing in many affected regions.

More similar MCQ questions for Exam preparation:-