The report details CITES-listed rosewood species’ characteristics, ecosystem roles, regeneration rates, and threats. 

• Such information will help CITES parties make informed Non-Detriment Findings (NDFs). 
  • NDF is a mandatory scientific analysis under CITES to ensure that exporting a specified quantity of specimens of Appendix I and II -listed species will not affect their long-term survival in the wild. 

Rosewood

• About: ‘Rosewood’ also called as “palisander” encompasses a wide range of tropical hardwoods in the Fabaceae (Leguminosae) family. Rosewood in Appendix II of CITES include:
  •  Dalbergia latifolia (Malabar rosewood) and Dalbergia Sissoo (Shisham) are found in India and are listed as Vulnerable and Least Concern on IUCN red list. 
  • African rosewood, native to West African countries, is listed as endangered on IUCN red list.
• Utility: Crafting furniture and musical instruments.
• Role in Ecosystem: 
  • Soil Improvement: Dalbergia species can improve degraded soil through fast decomposing leaf litter, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon.
  • Nitrogen Fixation: Some species form symbiotic associations with soil bacteria to fix atmospheric nitrogen.

CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) About:  An international legally binding agreement between governments to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species. Genesis: Drafted in 1963 following an IUCN resolution, it came into force in 1975. Parties: 184 (including India) CITES Appendices: Contains lists of species afforded different levels or types of protection from over-exploitation.