Invasive species a serious threat for Kerala

The Hindu,

Invasive species are considered the most serious threat to biodiversity after habitat destruction. It is estimated that three trillion dollars are spent every year across the world to manage the menace. While most of the alien invasive species found in Kerala were once imported for horticulture and agriculture, some reached the State through timber consignments.
Studies carried out by KFRI had revealed the presence of 82 invasive species in the State, including trees, shrubs and climbers. High-risk species like the Nila grass ( Mimosa diplotricha ) bracken fern ( Pteridium aquilinum ), Mucuna ( Mucuna bracteata ), Congress grass ( Parthenium hysterophorus ) and Chinese creeper ( Mikania micrantha ) can disrupt the growth of native species in forests, smother plants and trees and lead to crop loss and soil degradation.

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