Environmentalists urge halt and removal of Conocarpus trees from Coimbatore lake bunds

The planting of Conocarpus trees along the bunds of all eight lakes redeveloped by the Coimbatore Corporation under the Smart Cities Mission has raised concern among conservationists.

Independent researcher Prasath Selvaraj said the fast-growing ornamental species may not be suitable for wetlands and lake ecosystems despite its wide use in urban landscaping. According to him, Conocarpus develops an extensive root system that competes for groundwater and alters soil characteristics. “Shoreline ecosystems rely on native reeds and shrubs to support water filtration, soil stability and biodiversity. When they are replaced by a non-native species, it can gradually disturb bird movement, butterfly activity and the trophic interactions that link insects, plants and birds,” he said.

An environmentalist associated with lake conservation efforts said the issue extends beyond ecological suitability. The environmentalist pointed out that during the flowering season the tree releases large amounts of pollen, which can spread across surrounding areas and affect people living and working nearby. The pollen has been associated with respiratory issues including allergies, asthma and common cold-like symptoms in regions where the species was planted on a large scale.

A botanist seeking anonymity said Conocarpus was not categorised as an invasive species but required location-specific regulation. He noted that the Tamil Nadu government issued an order in January this year discouraging its planting near human habitations due to environmental and health concerns. He said the Corporation should avoid planting the species in future and remove the ones already introduced near lakes.

Officials of the Coimbatore Corporation said a few exotic species were planted during earlier lake redevelopment works, but clarified that no new exotic species are being introduced along lake bunds and riverbeds now.