Gujarat University will be first university to have it’s own arboretum!
The Arboretum by Gujarat University in Ahmedabad will be an important centre for research. Scientists from the university and other institutions use the arboretum to study the biology and ecology of trees, including their growth patterns, response to different environmental conditions, and interactions with other organisms.
But what is an arboretum? And what is the basic difference between a botanical garden and arboretum? Also, how beneficial it is when it comes to climate change?
Probably, a botanist or a specialist can answer these questions in detail, but we will tell you inshort about this concept.
As defined, an arboretum is a botanical garden devoted primarily to trees and other woody plants. It’s a place where people can learn about different tree species, observe them in their natural habitats, and gain a better appreciation for their importance to our environment. Many arboreta also serve as research centers, providing a valuable resource for scientists studying the biology and ecology of trees.
The special aspect of Arboreta is that they have different collections of trees from different regions. They often include rare and endangered species that might not be found anywhere else. In addition to trees, arboreta may also have collections of other plant species, such as shrubs, vines, and ground covers, as well as exhibits on insects, birds, and other animals that live in and around trees.
Arboretum by Gujarat University in Ahmedabad
Gujarat University will be first university to have it’s own arboretum. The unique quality of this arboretum will be that it will be inspired from Kew Garden in London. According to the plan it will be built on seven acres of land and an amphitheater.
Hoping that this work will be completed in six to seven months. Interestingly, it will have three air-conditioned domes. Exotic plants of Gujarat which we know as Chlora and Kona will be incubated.
Beneficial to tackle climate change
Arboreta can play an important role in studying and promoting these benefits. Firstly, trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and store it in their biomass. This helps to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and mitigate climate change. Secondly, trees provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species, and promote biodiversity in forest ecosystems. This biodiversity is important for maintaining healthy and resilient ecosystems, which are better able to adapt to changing climatic conditions. Thirdly, trees play an important role in regulating water cycles by absorbing water through their roots, and releasing it into the atmosphere through transpiration. This helps to maintain healthy watersheds and mitigate the impacts of floods and droughts. Fourthly, trees provide shade and reduce the amount of heat absorbed by urban and suburban areas, which can help to reduce the urban heat island effect and make cities more livable.
Difference between Arboretum and Botanical Garden
There are some key differences between the arboretum and botanical garden.
| Arboretum | Botanical Garden |
| Specialised botanical garden that primarily focuses on trees and other woody plants | Often broader in scope and may include a wider range of plant collections |
| It includes other aspects of forest ecosystems, such as wildlife, fungi, and soil | Includes herb gardens, water gardens, and flower gardens |
| Arboreta are botanical gardens that focus primarily on trees | Botanical gardens have a broader range of plant collections and a more curated layout |
