India, April 3 -- LUCKNOW The Kukrail dry deciduous forest region, known as the city's green lungs, is 'gasping for growth' following a deterioration in its capacity for self-expansion. Reason: The percentage of modern pollen taxa of several plant varieties, which plays a crucial role in their reproductive processes, is found to be degraded, reflecting the low density of certain trees in the forest area, reveals a research by Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP) and the department of geology at Lucknow University.

During the study, degraded pollen and spores in surface soil were observed frequently and the study can assist in restoration strategy and remediation action in and around the reserve forest to conserve a healthy env...