The Hindu : Karnataka / Mysore News : A treasure trove of biodiversity

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, Jun 21, 2005

Karnataka

Karnataka - Mysore

A treasure trove of biodiversity

Special Correspondent

NATURAL WONDER: The giant banyan tree on the outskirts of Alanahalli is considered to be at least 150 years old.

MYSORE: A giant banyan tree located 6 km from Mysore and considered to be one of the largest of its kind in the region is at risk of being vandalised if authorities fail to implement measures to protect it.

Sequestered amidst sylvan surroundings in the backdrop of the Chamundi Hills, the majestic tree is located on the outskirts of Alanahalli on the road to T. Narsipura. However, it remains largely unknown to many people in Mysore.

Not protected

The local community adjoining Alanahalli offers special prayers to the tree on auspicious occasions. Munishwaraswamy — as the tree is referred to by the devout — has, however, not figured on the authorities' list for conservation. According to A. Ramalingam, a retired professor from the University of Mysore, a few aerial roots have been vandalised and this threatens to hasten the degeneration of the tree.

The tree measures 100 ft from the main trunk to the outer fringes of the branches and is a splendid sight. The distance between any two opposite points along its outer perimeter is around 200 ft and it occupies around an acre. The tree has the potential to grow and spread its roots further if it is provided adequate protection.

The giant tree is a treasure trove of biodiversity and harbours different species of bats, mynahs (seasonal), a number of varieties of birds, squirrels, and countless species of insects within its massive umbrella-like canopy.

According to Mr. Ramalingam, the tree has its own micro-climatic condition. As a result, the temperature beneath its canopy is always a couple of degrees lower than the surrounding temperature and the tree is equivalent to an "oxygen factory," he added.

Age

While local residents say that the tree has been around for several generations, Mr. Ramalingam says it is around 150 years old.

Though the tree does not measure up to the Great Banyan in Kolkatta, which has a circumference of around 382 metres and over 600 aerial roots, or the "Dodda Aladamara" on the outskirts of Bangalore, it is no less impressive.

In May, local villagers create makeshift shrines and offer prayers to the banyan tree.

"There have been instances of film crew trimming the hanging roots of the banyan tree or shepherds hanging by the branches and using them as swings. This weakens the tree and limits its capacity to grow," Mr. Ramalingam said.

He also expressed fears that since the tree is within private property and the area around Alanahalli is developing, it may soon become a victim of urbanisation.

Mr. Ramalingam suggests that procuring the land around the tree and fencing off the area may help the aerial roots thrive and provide sufficient nourishment for the tree.

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