Trees For Black Tigers

Why Trees?

The black or pseudo-melanistic tigers are a rare find and have only been seen in Odisha’s Simlipal National Park so far. The planting site comes under the periphery of the Similipal area.
 

Black tigers are not a separate species or subspecies of tigers. Pseudo-melanistic tigers have a distinctive genetic variant that occurs spontaneously in nature. After sequencing the genomes of 3 zoo-born black tigers and comparing them with their typically-coated parents, researchers at India’s National Center for Biological Sciences, traced the pattern to a minute alteration in a gene known as taqpep.^[1] Subsequently, they embarked on months-long expeditions, hiking approximately 1,500 kilometres through jungles across India, where they collected tiger droppings, fur, blood, and saliva. The analysis of these samples enabled them to determine the prevalence of this genetic variation, noting its virtual absence in tigers outside of the Similipal region.

One of the main causes of the decline in the black tiger population is habitat fragmentation. It takes place when the local population takes over certain parts of the forest to meet their basic needs for food, fuel, and fodder. The use of the forest produce for subsistence has resulted in forest patches that are disconnected from each other. The problems are being made worse by climate change, which is having an effect on the region's water supply due to high temperatures and erratic rainfall.

Similar to Similipal, there are other tiger populations endangered by human-induced habitat fragmentation that also exhibit, what is described as "intense founding bottlenecks," in an article written by FE Online.^[2] Though these instances are isolated, the decline in population is evident through significant changes in phenotype evolution.

This tree plantation initiative in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha aims to restore the black tiger's habitat, lessen the effects of climate change, and provide jobs for rural populations. The majority of the local population in the region is engaged in agriculture. The proposed plantation would serve as a source of income by giving locals jobs through a variety of plantation activities.

According to an article by The Better India, “Found only in Odisha, the numbers of the black tiger do not look too good. Back in 2006, the state housed about 45, and in 2015, the count was down to 28.”^[3]

An article on ‘The Problem of Fragmentation’ states that “climate change is forcing certain species to migrate. If their natural habitat is too fragmented, many might not be able to move, and they will be at risk of extinction. This again highlights the importance of a connected landscape.”^[4]

WWF says that “To save tigers, we need to secure forest and grassland habitats across Asia where they live. By protecting large, biologically diverse landscapes, we allow tigers to roam and preserve the many other threatened species that live there. To protect just one tiger, we have to conserve an estimated 10,000 hectares of forest.”^[5]

Tree Species

Tree plantation will create a denser patch around the Similipal National Park. The chosen tree species possess ecological significance, facilitating the creation of a suitable habitat for various faunal species. In addition to their ecological value, these tree species offer medicinal and other benefits that can aid the local tribal population in generating supplementary income.

Our approach to tree planting involves selecting species that are perfectly suited to the local environment of our planting sites, thereby creating a thriving ecosystem that can flourish and sustain itself.

The project involves the plantation of Teak (Tectona grandis), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo), Mahua (Madhuca longifolia), Indian cotton silk tree (Bombax ceiba) and Kendu (Diospyros melanoxylon). Teak, Neem and Shisham are hardwood trees and are extensively used in making furniture. Neem and Kendu are also planted for their medicinal properties. The Indian cotton silk tree is planted for its ornamental value and commercial purposes; it is a great source of fibre. The cotton-like substance is usually used for stuffing pillows.

Social Impact

Tree plantation offers numerous benefits that span across multiple aspects.*

Tree plantation creates a denser patch around the Simlipal National Park.The chosen species will contribute to the development of an appropriate habitat for faunal species because of their ecological importance. Protecting tiger habitat means protecting the habitat of many other species.

Our project generates employment opportunities for the local communities since we are committed to working closely with them at our planting sites. They are involved in preparing the saplings in the nursery, transportation of the saplings, plantation and maintenance. The local communities can also earn additional income from the plantation produce, in this case, they can supplement their income from timber and fruits once the tree matures. Many women workers plant trees for our projects. Inclusivity is a key commitment of our tree plantation projects.

By planting trees, we can help regulate the natural water cycle and improve water quality. This will benefit both the local population and the elephants. Groundwater recharge happens when water from rainfall and other sources soaks into the ground and refills underground water sources. This is important in making sure we have enough water for drinking, agriculture and other uses.

Trees help to reduce soil erosion and improve the overall soil quality. This helps increase the agricultural productivity of the local farmers. Since the plantation helps the sustenance of the local communities; they can collect fodder, fuelwood and fruits from the plantation site, a marked reduction in human-wildlife conflict is expected.

Trees do an excellent job absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A mature tree can absorb up to 20 kg of CO₂ each year. Trees keep the temperature cool and reduce atmospheric stressors.

*The environmental benefits of the trees reach their full potential as they mature.

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