Latest news with #Utilization
The Hindu
19 hours ago
- Science
- The Hindu
Book on turning Prosopis juliflora to a resource of value
A book exploring viable means to turn the menace of Prosopis juliflora, a rapidly proliferating weed locally known as seemai karuvelam into a resource of some value was recently brought out at the Pondicherry University. P. Prakash Babu, Vice-Chancellor, Pondicherry University, while formally releasing the book, expressed hope that the work would stimulate and catalyse global efforts towards controlling and utilising Prosopis juliflora. The book Prosopis juliflora: Attributes, Impact, Utilization summarises the findings of an exhaustive work by a research team led by S. A. Abbasi, a former professor, on finding economically viable ways of utilising Prosopis juliflora so that its standing biomass can be turned into a resource. The publication (Elsevier and Academic Press) has references to findings of other researchers across the world. According to a press release, Prosopis juliflora has emerged as the world's most domineering and harmful of weeds. India is among the countries that have been very seriously hit by this menace, asit growing uncontrollably in several States, causing great harm. Deleterious impact In the Puducherry-Tamil Nadu region too, the plant is seen growing almost everywhere, rampantly colonising new areas at the expense of diverse vegetation. The invasive plant also possesses negative allelopathy due to which itplant species from its vicinity and monopolise the space. In fact, such has been its deleterious impact that in 2022 writ petitions were filed in the Madras High Court to direct the government to intervene.
New Indian Express
24-05-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
Pondicherry University releases global study on invasive species
PUDUCHERRY: Pondicherry University Vice-Chancellor P. Prakash Babu on Friday released a new book titled Prosopis Juliflora: Attributes, Impact, Utilization, published by Elsevier and Academic Press. The book offers a comprehensive study of the invasive species Prosopis juliflora, commonly known as seemai karuvelam. Compiled after years of research by former professor S. A. Abbasi and his team at Pondicherry University, the book explores sustainable and economically viable uses of the plant's biomass. It also features contributions from global researchers, providing an international perspective on managing one of the world's most aggressive and ecologically damaging weeds. Prosopis juliflora has severely impacted biodiversity in regions such as Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, displacing native vegetation through its allelopathic properties, which hinder the growth of nearby plants. In 2022, several writ petitions were filed in the Madras High Court seeking government action to control its spread. Prakash Babu stated that the book is expected to guide global efforts not only to contain the plant but also to explore ways of converting it into a valuable resource for both ecological restoration and economic gain.
