Paper Title: Impacts of Invasive Alien Species on Biodiversity and Strategies for Ecosystem Recovery
Author:
Abstract:
Invasive Alien Species (IAS) pose a growing threat to Indias biodiversity, ecological stability, and socio-economic well-being. This review examines the ecological, socio-economic, and cultural impacts of IAS in India, highlighting species such as Lantana camara, Partheniumhysterophorus, and Eichhornia crassipes that have altered native ecosystems, disrupted trophic interactions, and reduced agricultural productivity. Drivers of invasion include globalization, land-use change, climate variability, and institutional gaps in surveillance and management. The consequences are far-reaching, including biodiversity loss, increased public health burdens, reduced rural incomes, and erosion of traditional knowledge systems. Effective strategies for ecosystem recovery in India include early detection and rapid response (EDRR), mechanical and biological control, ecological restoration, and community engagement. However, significant research gaps remain in species-specific impact assessments, monitoring of control effectiveness, integration of traditional ecological knowledge, and modelling of climate-invasion interactions. The review calls for strengthened policy frameworks, improved biosecurity infrastructure, and inclusive, science-based approaches to restoration. Addressing IAS is critical to achieving Indias biodiversity targets and ensuring the resilience of its socio-ecological systems in the face of global environmental change.
Keywords:Invasive Alien Species (IAS), Biodiversity Loss, Ecosystem Restoration, Ecological Impacts.
DOI Link – https://doi.org/10.63431/AIJITR/2.IV.2025.51-58
Review By – Dr. Chandan Adhikary and Amit Adhikari