Invasive Alien Plants of Indian Himalayan Region—Diversity and Implication

K. Chandra Sekar

G. B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, India..

DOI: 10.4236/ajps.2012.32021                

Abstract

The present study deals with comprehensive list of Invasive alien plants of Indian Himalayan Region with background information on family, habit and nativity. A total of 190 invasive alien species under 112 genera, belonging to 47 families have been recorded. Among these, the dicotyledons represent by 40 families, 95 genera and 170 species; monocotyledons represent by 7 families, 17 genera and 20 species. The analysis of invasive species reveals that 18 species have been introduced intentionally, while the remaining species established unintentionally through trade. In terms of nativity, amongst 13 geographic regions, the majority of invasive plants reported from American continent (73%). While in life form analysis, the herbs (148 species) are dominant, followed by shrubs (19 species), Grass (11 species), Trees (4 species), sedges and climber (3 species each). Most of the invasive species are annual habit (63%). Apart from these, 90 species (47%) are being used by locals for medicinal purposes. A better planning is needed for early detection to control and reporting of infestations of spread of new and naturalized weeds to be monitored.

Keywords

Invasive Alien Species; Indian Himalayan Region; Nativity; India

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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