Question

Identify the most prominent species which are grown in the coastal areas.

• A. Casuari equisetifolia and Acacia catechu
• B. Casuari equisetifolia and Grewia optiva
• C. Casuari equisetifolia and Acardium occidentale
• D. Eucalyptus sp. and Gmeli arborea

Hint:

In coastal shelterbelt designs, Casuari equisetifolia is typically planted in the outermost rows closest to the sea to block salt winds, while cashew (Acardium occidentale) is integrated in the inner rows as an economic crop.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Coastal areas present challenging environmental conditions, including sandy soils, high salinity, strong winds, and salt spray.
Revegetation and agroforestry in these regions require salt-tolerant species that can stabilize dunes and withstand coastal winds.

Step 2: Detailed Explation:
Let us evaluate the suitability of the given species pairs for coastal environments:
• Casuari equisetifolia (Beefwood/Whistling Pine): This is a highly salt-tolerant, wind-resistant actinorhizal tree. It is widely planted along India's coastline to form shelterbelts, stabilize sand dunes, and protect inland agricultural fields from cyclonic winds.

• Acardium occidentale (Cashew): This species thrives in the sandy, well-drained soils of coastal regions, providing high-value nut harvests and serving as an important cash crop for coastal communities.

• Other species like Acacia catechu (dry deciduous), Grewia optiva (sub-Himalayan), and Gmeli arborea are not characteristic of sandy, coastal beach environments.
Therefore, Casuari equisetifolia and Acardium occidentale are the most prominent species cultivated in coastal agroforestry.

Step 3: Fil Answer:
The correct option is (C).