CHINTU-Laxmi final.pptx presentation on the tree

Tree species

1. TOPIC: DETAIL DESCRIPTION ABOUT THE TREE SPECIES Bombax ceiba GUIDED BY: ASSISTANT PROF. DR. SMITHA G. NAIR SUBMITTED BY: CHINMAY KUMAR NAYAK ADMISSION NO.: 221710018 College Of Forestry Orissa University Of Agriculture And Technology, BBSR

2. Contents: SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION OF THE TREE SPECIES DISTRIBUTION OF THE TREE SPECIES GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION USES OF THE TREE SPECIES INDUSTRIES BASED ON THE WOOD CONCLUSION

3. SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION Kingdom: Plantae Clade : Tracheophytes Clade : Angiosperms Clade : Eudicots Clade : Rosids Order: Malvales Family: Malvaceae Genus: Bombax Species: B. ceiba

4. Description of the tree: Common Names : The tree is commonly known as the cotton tree, Malabar silk-cotton tree, red silk-cotton, red cotton tree, or ambiguously as silk-cotton or kapok (though the latter may also refer to Ceiba pentandra ). Origin and Habitat : Bombax ceiba is native to Asian tropical regions, where it thrives in warm climates. Morphology and Characteristics : Trunk : It boasts a tall, straight trunk that is a distinguishing feature of the species. Bombax ceiba typically grows to an average height of 20 meters, although old trees in wet tropical regions can reach heights of up to 60 meters. The trunk and limbs of young Bombax ceiba trees are adorned with numerous conical spines, which tend to erode as the tree ages. Wood Density – 320kg/m3, Soft and light Timber .

5. Leaves : The leaves are deciduous, meaning they shed during winter. Palmate leaves with approximately 6 leaflets radiating from a central point(tip of petiole). Average width of leaves is 7–10 centimeters (2+5⁄6–4 inches). Length of leaves ranges from 13–15 centimeters (5+1⁄6–5+5⁄6 inches). Long, flexible petiole up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) in length.

6. 3 . Flowers : During spring, the tree bears striking red flowers with five petals, adding a burst of color to its surroundings. Cup-shaped flowers can be solitary or clustered. Found axillary or sub-terminal, typically in fascicles at or near the ends of the branches. Average width of flowers is 7–11 centimeters (2+5⁄6–4+1⁄3 inches). Width of petals up to 12 centimeters (4+2⁄3 inches), with a cup-shaped calyx usually 3-lobed, approximately 3–5 centimeters (1+1⁄6–2 inches) in diameter. Staminal tube is short, with more than 60 in 5 bundles. Stigma is light red, up to 9 centimeters (3+1⁄2 inches) in length. Ovary is pink, 1.5–2 centimeters (2⁄3–5⁄6 inches) in length, covered in white silky hair approximately 1mm long.

7. 4. Fruits : It produces capsules containing white fibers similar to cotton, which ripen over time. Immature fruits are light-green in color , while mature fruits turn brown. Average length of the fruit is 13 centimeters (5 inches). Seeds are numerous, long, ovoid, and black or gray in color , packed in white cotton. 5. Thorns : The trunk bears spikes, which serve as a defense mechanism against animal attacks.

8. DISTRIBUTION OF THE TREE SPECIES The tree prefers tropical and subtropical climates, typically growing in moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and tropical rainforests. It can also thrive in areas with a monsoon climate where there is a distinct wet and dry season. The distribution of Bombax ceiba includes: Indian Subcontinent : It is native to countries such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. In India, it is found in various states including Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. Southeast Asia : Bombax ceiba is also found in countries such as Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is often cultivated for its ornamental value and its use in traditional medicine. Northern Australia : In Australia, it is found in the tropical regions of Northern Territory and Queensland .

9. GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION INDIA WORLD Bombax ceiba

10. USES OF BOMBAX CEIBA : 1. Fiber : The kapok fibers extracted from the seed pods of Bombax ceiba are lightweight, buoyant, and resistant to water. Historically, these fibers were used to fill life jackets, pillows, mattresses, and upholstery. They are also used as insulation material. Traditional Medicine : In traditional medicine systems, various parts of Bombax ceiba are used to treat ailments such as coughs, fever, dysentery, and skin diseases. Different parts of the tree, including the bark, leaves, flowers, and roots, are used in traditional remedies. Timber : The wood of Bombax ceiba is relatively soft and lightweight, making it suitable for carving and making canoes, traditional musical instruments, and small wooden crafts. However, it is not commonly used for heavy construction due to its relatively low durability. Ornamental Purposes : The majestic appearance of the red silk-cotton tree with its large, bright red flowers makes it a popular ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and along roadsides in tropical and subtropical regions. It is often planted for its aesthetic value.

11. 5 . Environmental Benefits : Bombax ceiba plays a role in environmental conservation and ecosystem services. Its large canopy provides shade, which helps in temperature regulation and reduces soil erosion. Additionally, the tree attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity. 6. Religious and Cultural Significance : In some cultures, Bombax ceiba holds religious or cultural significance. For example, it is considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism, and it is often planted near temples and religious sites. 7. Habitat for Wildlife : The large size and dense foliage of Bombax ceiba provide habitats for various species of birds, insects, and other wildlife. It contributes to the overall biodiversity of ecosystems where it grows. Overall, Bombax ceiba is a versatile tree with multiple uses ranging from practical applications like fiber production to cultural and environmental significance.

12. INDUSTRIES BASED OF THE WOOD Crafts and Artisanal Products : Bombax ceiba wood is often used by artisans and craftsmen to create small wooden crafts, sculptures, and decorative items. Its lightweight and workability make it suitable for carving and shaping into intricate designs. Musical Instruments : In some cultures, Bombax ceiba wood is used to craft traditional musical instruments such as drums, flutes, and stringed instruments. While not as common as other hardwoods in instrument making, its unique properties may lend themselves to specific tonal qualities or aesthetic preferences. Handicrafts and Furniture : While not as durable or commonly used as other hardwoods for furniture making, Bombax ceiba wood may be utilized in crafting lightweight and ornamental furniture pieces, especially in regions where the tree is abundant and locally sourced materials are preferred .

13. Ecotourism and Souvenirs : In areas where Bombax ceiba trees are prevalent, there may be opportunities for ecotourism businesses to offer guided tours or sell souvenirs made from the tree's wood. These could include small carvings, trinkets, or decorative items that appeal to tourists interested in local crafts and culture. Experimental and Niche Products : Due to its unique properties, Bombax ceiba wood may be used in experimental or niche products where its lightweight nature or specific characteristics are advantageous. This could include specialty items such as eco-friendly packaging, artistic installations, or sustainable design projects.   Traditional Medicine and Herbal Products : Industries related to traditional medicine and herbal products may utilize various parts of Bombax ceiba , such as the bark, leaves, flowers, and roots, for medicinal purposes. These industries may involve the processing, packaging, and distribution of herbal remedies derived from the tree. Horticulture and Landscaping : Nurseries and landscaping businesses may cultivate and sell Bombax ceiba trees for ornamental purposes. The tree's large size, vibrant red flowers, and impressive canopy make it a popular choice for parks, gardens, and roadside landscaping in tropical and subtropical regions While Bombax ceiba may not directly support large-scale industrial operations, it contributes to various sectors through its diverse uses and ecological importance. Additionally, the tree's cultural significance in certain regions may inspire activities such as festivals, cultural events, or educational programs, which can indirectly support local economies

14. CONCLUSION: It's clear that while there's progress towards understanding the ecological, physiological, and sustainability aspects of Ceiba species, much work remains, especially in understudied species facing habitat loss. However, these species also present opportunities to address environmental stress and human-induced disturbances. The resilience of Ceiba species to environmental stressors makes them valuable assets in combating habitat loss and climate change. Moreover, their potential as alternative sources of natural fibers , particularly kapok-based fibers , holds promise for reducing the carbon footprint of textile manufacturing and lessening dependency on high-carbon footprint materials like cotton and oil-based fibers . To realize these opportunities, it's crucial to design conservation and exploitation strategies based on scientific data and tailored to the ecological context of Ceiba species. This approach should involve local communities, investors, and governments to ensure that strategies are culturally appropriate, socially equitable, and economically viable. By prioritizing research, conservation efforts, and sustainable management practices, we can harness the potential of Ceiba species to mitigate environmental degradation, support local economies, and contribute to a more sustainable future for both ecosystems and human societies.

15. REFERENCES A handbook of forest utilisation Indian forest utilisation. By FRI https:fri.icfre.gov.in>genetics and tree propagation https://apps.worldagroforestry.org www.tropicaltimbers.info