Invasive alien species threatening Natural ecosystem

Source- This post on Invasive alien species threatening Natural ecosystem  has been created based on the article “How invasive species threaten natural ecosystems” published in “The Indian Express” on 12 April 2024.

Why in the news?

In order to manage the rising chital population on Ross Island (now Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), the Andaman and Nicobar administration has sought assistance from the Wildlife Institute of India.

About Invasive Alien Species:

1. Invasive alien species (IAS) are the species which are introduced and/or spread outside their natural past or present distribution threatens biological diversity.

2. These include animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms. It can influence all kinds of ecosystems.

3. Characteristics of Invasive Alien Species is described as “arrive, survive and thrive.”

These species are introduced either through natural or human intervention. They survive on native food resources, reproduce at a fast rate and edge out native species in the competition over resources.

4. Example of Invasive Alien Species in India: The list of invasive wildlife in India is dominated by certain species of fish such as the African catfish, Nile tilapia, red-bellied piranha, and alligator gar, and turtle species such as the red-eared slider. 

5. Impact on Flora: In habitats where there is no competition, invasive species can dominate the entire ecosystem. For ex- The increased population of chital in the Andamans has affected the regeneration of native vegetation, as the deer are known to consume seeds and seedlings.

6. Impact on Fauna: Invasive species act as disruptors in the food chain and disturb the balance of the ecosystem. For ex- In Keoladeo Park, Bharatpur in Rajasthan, the African catfish has been known to prey on waterfowls and migratory birds as well.

7. Impact on economy: In September 2023, the IPBES reported that 37,000 alien species have been introduced globally, adding around 200 new species annually and costing over $423 billion each year in economic damages.  For ex- The cotton mealybug from North America has significantly impacted India’s cotton yields.

Read more : Spotted Deer

UPSC Syllabus: Environment