Botanical Name Of Banyan Tree

Botanical Name Of Banyan Tree

May 26, 2023, 16:45 IST

The Botanical name of the Banyan tree is Ficus benghalensis . The species is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent and is considered sacred in Indian mythology. The scientific or botanical name is the standard name given by the International Council to help in the identification of different species. In this article, we will discuss the botanical name of the Banyan tree and its significance in detail.

Significance of Botanical Names

The World is divided into seven major continents which are further subdivided into subcontinents and countries. Every country has a wide diversity of cultures, languages, and regional names. The same species of plant may have thousands of names in different regions of the world. To avoid this confusion and to create a standard system of nomenclature, the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants has laid down certain principles which help in assigning Botanical names for the plant species.

These Botanical names are specific, and universal and help in avoiding confusion across different languages. These names are accepted by scientists all over the world which promotes collaborative research and classification.

Also, check - Air Pollution

Process of Assigning Scientific Names

• Bionomail system of Nomenclature is used for assigning scientific names to newly discovered plants and animals.
• In this system, the botanical name is divided into two parts.
• The first part represents the genus to which the plant belongs and the second part represents the particular species.
• Together the two words are unique for each plant belonging to the same species. This creates a classification system that is highly specific and prevents confusion.

Also, check - Cancer - Types, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Botanical Name of Banyan Tree

Banyan tree is grouped under the genus Ficus and the name of the species is benghalensis. Therefore, the scientific name of the Banyan tree is Ficus benghalensis. This species is native to the Indian subcontinent although also found in other Asian countries. The common name of this species is banyan fig and it belongs to the Moraceae family. It is the National tree of India and has both religious and ecological importance.

Also, check - Aquatic Ecosystem

Significance of Banyan Tree

• The leaves and bark of the Banyan tree help treat diarrhea and has antimicrobial properties.
• It helps in boosting the immune system and increases the number of white blood cells.
• The Banyan tree is the major Oxygen contributor among all the tree and plant species.
• The paste made from Bnayan tree leaves helps in reducing swelling, strengthens the gum, and prevents tooth decay.
• It has a very large canopy which provides the perfect habitat for microbes in the soil, and numerous insects and animal species.
• In the Indian Ayurveda system, this tree is considered to be of significant medicinal value.
• It also has religious significance and symbolizes victory over death or immortality.

Botanical Name Of Banyan Tree FAQs

Q1. What is the Banyan tree called scientifically?

Ans. The botanical or scientific name of the Banyan tree is Ficus benghalensis . These names are written in Latin because the language is considered dead so no changes can be done to the nomenclature or the naming process.

Q2. What is the Banyan tree called locally?

Ans. The local name of the Banyan tree is banyan fig and it belongs to the Mulberry family. This species depends on small wasps called figs for their pollination and hence they are locally known as fig trees.

Q3. Why are Banyan trees ecologically important?

Ans. Banyan trees produce very large canopies which provide shade to several species of birds, animals, and insects. It creates its microhabitat and also releases a significant amount of oxygen into the atmosphere which makes life possible for animals.

Q4. What is the average length and lifespan of Banyan trees?

Ans. Banyan trees can grow up to heights of 30 meters but the average length is approximately 20-25 meters. The trees can survive for 200-300 years under normal environmental conditions and grow huge canopies.