Impacts of invasive alien plant species on biodiversity in the regions of Western Himalayas, India: An overview

Abstract

The Western Himalayas regions are one of the riches repositories of the plant diversity in India. The spread of invasive alien plant species across Himalayan range causes loss of biodiversity including species extinction and change in the ecosystem functioning. These exotic plant species differ from their native area, based on their requirements, mode of resource asset and consumption may lead to the change in the structure, profile of the soil as well as the nutrient content. This results in adverse impacts on the biodiversity and ecosystem. However, various studies have been performed in documenting the ecological impacts of invasive species but there is a lack of understanding in regards of their economic importance, medicinal values, and livelihood considerations and in assessment the risk on human health. Present paper showcased some invasive alien species which are common and becoming threat for the forest zones and alpine regions in the Western Himalayan states of India.