Deadly Disease and Climate Change Force Removal of Iconic Palm Trees in Mexico City
In a devastating turn of events, authorities in Mexico City have been compelled to chop down beloved palm trees that have long been cherished as an emblem of the capital. More than 150 palm trees, known as Canary Island date palms, had to be removed from the traditional Colonia Narvarte and Del Valle neighborhoods due to lethal yellowing, a disease caused by the red palm weevil, a type of beetle.
Canary Island date palms are native to the Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa and have the potential to live for over two centuries. However, the ones in Mexico City have succumbed to lethal yellowing, a disease contracted from the red palm weevil. This pest, originally from tropical Asia, has spread globally, causing irreparable harm to palm trees in various countries.
Experts believe that climate change is exacerbating the vulnerability of these trees to insect infestations. Reyna Rojas, an expert in plant diseases, explained that the rising temperatures put immense stress on the plants, making them more attractive to insects.
To address the issue, tree surgeons have been undertaking the arduous task of cutting down wilted palms in Mexico City’s central Narvarte neighborhood, effectively erasing a part of the city’s history. Residents, like 55-year-old Ivan Felipe, lament the loss, stating that it takes away the essence of the neighborhood. Irma Gutierrez, who has known these trees since childhood, expressed her grief over their removal.
The Mexican government announced the removal of 155 palm trees in July, acknowledging that the species is susceptible to the ongoing climate change worldwide. At the time, temperatures in the city soared above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), exceeding the normal range for the Mexican capital. Despite its tropical location, the city typically experiences mild summers due to its high altitude of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level.
This is not the first time Mexico City has faced the loss of its iconic palm trees. In April 2022, one of the capital’s most iconic palm trees, located along the main avenue Paseo de la Reforma, had to be removed after being attacked by a fungus. A native cypress tree was planted as a replacement but wilted and withered within weeks, necessitating its removal.
The removal of these palm trees serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of climate change and the urgent need for environmental conservation efforts to preserve our natural heritage.
