Why in news
In the midst of a sweltering summer, a stream long dormant in a tribal settlement within the Marayur sandal division in Idukki has sprung back to life after a hiatus of 30 years.
This remarkable transformation is credited to an eco-restoration initiative spearheaded by the Forest department in the area during 2021-24.
The officials recount that the hills within the forest division of Kammalamkudi were once grasslands with active water streams until 1990.
Prior to the introduction of Acacia mearnsii (black wattle) in the region.
In 1980, the government planted black wattle across approximately 500 hectares of land.
However, over time, the land became overrun by West Indian Lantana (Kongini) plants, inhibiting the growth of other exotic species and restricting access to animals.
Black wattle and West Indian Lantana
Black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to southeastern Australia.
That has become invasive in many parts of the world, including India.
It can form dense thickets that crowd out native plants and can also alter soil chemistry.
Black wattle has yellow flower spikes that bloom in the spring.
Impact of invasive species
Invasive species wreak havoc on environments they are introduced to, causing a ripple effect of problems.
Environmental Damage:
Loss of Biodiversity: Invasive species can outcompete native plants and animals for resources like food and space.
This can lead to population decline and even extinction of native species, reducing biodiversity.
Habitat Alteration: Invasive plants can form dense monocultures, choking out native vegetation and changing the overall ecosystem structure.
Invasive animals can alter predator-prey relationships and disrupt natural habitats.
Disrupted Food Webs: Invasive species can disrupt the delicate balance of food webs by preying on native species or becoming food sources that native predators haven't adapted to.
Economic Costs:
Agriculture Losses: Invasive species can damage crops, reduce yields, and spread diseases to agricultural plants.
Infrastructure Damage: Some invasive species, like zebra mussels, can clog water pipes and damage infrastructure.
Control Costs: Efforts to control invasive species can be expensive, requiring manpower, specialized equipment, and herbicides or pesticides.
Social Impacts:
Reduced Recreational Opportunities: Invasive plants can make areas less desirable for recreation by crowding out native plants and reducing scenic beauty.
Health Risks: Some invasive species can carry diseases or cause allergic reactions in humans.
Examples:
Kudzu vine: This fast-growing vine smothers native vegetation and can damage trees and buildings.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug: This invasive insect damages fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals, causing significant economic losses.
Burmese Python: These large snakes have become established in Florida and prey on native wildlife, including small mammals and birds.
Invasive species are a serious threat to our planet's ecosystems and economies.
Efforts to prevent their introduction and control their spread are crucial for maintaining healthy environments.
COMMENTS