Ecological Roles of Sandalwood

Ecological Roles of Sandalwood

Biodiversity Support:
• Habitat Creation: Sandalwood trees provide habitat and food for various wildlife species. They are part of the forest ecosystems in regions like India, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, where they contribute to the overall biodiversity by supporting different plant and animal species.
• Mycorrhizal Associations: Sandalwood forms symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, which enhance nutrient uptake for the tree and improve soil health. These fungi are crucial for the health of many forest ecosystems .
2. Soil Stabilization and Erosion Control:
• Root Systems: The root systems of sandalwood trees help in stabilizing the soil, thereby reducing erosion. This is particularly important in areas prone to soil degradation and erosion due to wind and water.
• Leaf Litter: The leaf litter from sandalwood trees contributes organic matter to the soil, enhancing soil fertility and structure. This organic matter also helps in retaining soil moisture, which is beneficial for the growth of other plants in the ecosystem .
3. Climate Regulation:
• Carbon Sequestration: Like other trees, sandalwood plays a role in carbon sequestration, which helps mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in biomass and soil.
• Microclimate Regulation: The presence of sandalwood trees can influence local microclimates by providing shade and cooling the air through transpiration. This can create more favorable conditions for the growth of understory plants and the overall health of the forest .
4. Water Cycle Regulation:
• Water Retention: Sandalwood trees aid in maintaining the hydrological cycle by improving water infiltration and retention in the soil. Their root systems help in reducing surface runoff and increasing groundwater recharge, which is vital for maintaining stream flows and water availability during dry periods