Frankincense-Producing Trees : Risk Of Extinction
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has issued a warning that Frankincense-producing trees (Boswellia species) are at risk of extinction.
- Five species on Socotra Island (Yemen) have moved from Vulnerable to Endangered, one species is now Critically Endangered and three others have been assessed as Critically Endangered for the first time.
- Frankincense is an aromatic resin derived from trees of the Boswellia genus.
- It has been historically valued for use in incense, perfumes, and traditional medicine.
- It was one of the three gifts (Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh) presented to Jesus by the Magi, as mentioned in the Bible.
- Goats graze on young saplings, preventing tree regeneration.
- Frequent cyclones, flash floods, and landslides (2015, 2018) have damaged and uprooted trees.
- Prolonged droughts hinder sapling growth.
- Excessive tapping for resin extraction weakens trees and reduces seed production.
- Lack of effective protective measures like fencing and regulated harvesting has worsened the crisis.
