Invasive Alien Species

• Context (DTE): The dense forests of Tamil Nadu are facing a rapid spread of invasive plant species.

• Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) defines invasive species as alien plants, animals, pathogens and other organisms that are non-native to an ecosystem, and which may cause economic or environmental harm or adversely affect human health.
• Invasive alien species can transform the structure and species composition of ecosystems by dominating the ecosystems and repressing or excluding native species.
• Since the 17^th century, invasive alien species have contributed to nearly 40% of all animal extinctions. 

Characteristics of Invasive Species

• Rapid reproduction and growth.
• High dispersal ability.
• Ability to survive on various food types.
• Ability to adapt physiologically to new conditions.
• Tolerance of a wide range of environmental conditions.
• Ability to alter growth form to suit current condition.

Common Invasive Species Found in India

• Viper grass
• Lantana camara
• Prosopis juliflora
• Water hyacinth
• African catfish
• Cotton Mealy Bug
• Primrose Willow

International Arrangements to Control Invasive Alien Species

• Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Aichi Target 9 on invasive alien species.
• Global Invasive Species Programme: It is supporting the implementation of Article 8(h) of CBD with IUCN as a partner organisation to address the global threat from Invasive Alien Species (IAS).
• Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS or Bonn Convention): It considers IAS as a threat to migratory species.
• Ramsar Convention: COP 7 resolution addresses threats of invasive species to wetland ecosystems.
• United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): States are required to protect and preserve the marine environment from intentional or unintentional introduction of alien species.
• IUCN SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) aims to reduce threats to ecosystems and their native species by increasing awareness of ways to prevent, control or eradicate invasive species.