TTD to cut down exotic plant species spread over 2,000 acres

Earlier, the officials introduced the species, native to Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, to increase green cover. However, it has eventually affected the soil acidity, thereby preventing other plants from thriving.

Hyderabad: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam is planning to cut down an exotic plant species called Acacia auriculiformis that is spread over 2,000 acres. The decision comes after the State Biodiversity Board released a report proving that acacia trees are damaging biodiversity and soil density underneath trees.

Earlier, the officials introduced the species, native to Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, to increase green cover. However, it has eventually affected the soil acidity, thereby preventing other plants from thriving.

The trees are said to have disturbed the delicate ecological balance in the Eastern Ghats in Chittoor, Kadapa and Nellore districts. It also led to an adverse impact on greenery since no other plants germinate besides it because of its high Ph value.

With no edible fruit, it does not attract birds or bees. Officials now are planning to replace Acacia auriculiformis with native species to restore balance.

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