Question

Identify the species which is unsuitable for the waterlogged conditions.

• A. Terminalia arjuna
• B. Calophyllum inophyllum
• C. Syzygium cumini
• D. Tectona grandis

Hint:

Teak = Drainage sensitive.
Arjuna = Riverbank lover.
Jamun = Water tolerant.
Always remember that high-quality timber species like Teak and Shisham are the first to die in stagnant water!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of site-species matching in silviculture. Specifically, it asks which of the given tree species cannot tolerate anaerobic conditions in the soil caused by excessive water (waterlogging).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Species Adaptation: Different tree species have evolved various physiological and morphological adaptations to handle water-saturated soils (e.g., pneumatophores, aerenchyma, or tolerance to toxic metabolic byproducts).

• Terminalia arjuna (A): Arjun is a riparian species. In nature, it is almost always found along riverbanks and streams. It is highly adapted to wet and periodically flooded conditions.

• Calophyllum inophyllum (B): Known as Punnaga, it is a coastal species that thrives in sandy soils with a high water table. It is moderately tolerant of moisture-heavy conditions.

• Syzygium cumini (C): Jamun is well-known for its ability to grow in swampy or low-lying areas. It can withstand significant waterlogging and is often planted in such sites.

• Tectona grandis (D): Teak is highly sensitive to soil drainage. It requires deep, well-aerated, and well-drained soils. In waterlogged conditions, teak roots quickly succumb to rot due to lack of oxygen. Even temporary stagnation of water during the growing season can significantly stunt its growth or lead to mortality. Therefore, it is completely unsuitable for waterlogged sites.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Tectona grandis (Teak) is the species unsuitable for waterlogged conditions among the choices.