Indian laurel trees (Terminalia tomentosa) store water in their trunks

Indian laurel trees ( Terminalia tomentosa) are known for their ability to store water in their trunks, acting as a natural reservoir, especially during dry periods.

• Mechanism of Water Storage: The water is stored within various parts of the tree, including the inner bark, sapwood, cell walls, and spaces between cells.
• Water Quantity: A mature Indian laurel tree can hold up to six liters of water. The actual amount stored varies depending on the trunk’s thickness.
• Identifying Water-Storing Trees: Not all Indian laurel trees store water. Primarily older trees store water and release it during dry seasons. Trees that store water develop a distinctive lateral ridge on their trunks. This ridge, measuring 2-3 feet long and half a foot thick, is typically found about 5-6 feet above ground level.
• Traditional Use: Tribal communities, such as the Konda Reddi Tribe, have traditionally relied on these trees as a vital water source during dry seasons, demonstrating their significance in local ecosystems and human survival.
• Water Collection: Water can be extracted by creating a small hole in the lateral ridge on the trunk, which is a sign of water presence.
• Water Quality: While the water stored in the tree is drinkable, it’s important to note that it possesses a strong smell and a sour taste. This is attributed to the organic compounds absorbed by the tree from the soil.
• Additional Benefits: Beyond water storage, the Indian laurel tree offers multiple ecological and economic benefits, including:
  • Enhanced Soil Fertility: The tree contributes to improving the nutrient content of the soil, promoting healthier plant growth.
  • Erosion Prevention: Its root system helps in stabilizing the soil, reducing erosion, and protecting land from degradation.
  • Shade for Crops: The tree’s canopy provides shade, creating a more favorable microclimate for crops growing underneath.
  • Livestock Fodder: The leaves of the tree serve as a valuable source of fodder for livestock.

The Indian laurel tree is a remarkable example of nature’s ingenuity, providing a unique solution to water scarcity in arid regions while offering a range of other ecological benefits.