Why in news?
A global report released in 2025 estimated that invasive alien species have caused economic losses exceeding two trillion US dollars since 1960. Indian conservationists drew attention to these findings to highlight the growing threat posed by non‑native plants and animals.
What are invasive alien species?
An invasive alien species is a plant, animal or micro‑organism introduced outside its natural range which spreads rapidly and harms the new environment. They often thrive because they lack predators in the new location, reproduce quickly and outcompete native species for resources.
Impacts
- Biodiversity loss: Invasives like Lantana camara, Parthenium hysterophorus, Prosopis juliflora and water hyacinth overwhelm forests, grasslands and wetlands, pushing out native plants and animals.
- Economic damage: They reduce crop yields, clog irrigation canals and increase wild‑fire risk. Eradication costs and yield losses impose a heavy burden on farmers and governments.
- Human health risks: Some species cause allergies or harbour disease vectors; for example, the giant African snail damages crops and acts as a host for parasites.
Strategies for control
- Prevention: Strict quarantine of imported plants, animals and wooden packaging can stop invasives from entering. The Ballast Water Management Convention helps prevent marine invasions.
- Early detection and rapid response: Community monitoring and citizen science can identify new invasions. Quick removal before a species spreads saves money and effort.
- Restoration and awareness: Rehabilitating degraded ecosystems with native species and educating the public about gardening choices reduces the spread. State‑level campaigns in the Western Ghats and Northeast have demonstrated success.
Tackling invasive species requires cooperation between governments, scientists and local communities. Prevention is cheaper than eradication, and strong laws under the Biological Diversity Act 2002 and the Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import into India) Order 2003 provide a framework for action.