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Documentation of Invasive Angiosperm Species of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Author: Arathy R.H., Mohanan N. and Lubaina A.S.

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Abstract

Thattekkad bird sanctuary, known as the premier bird sanctuary of Kerala, is located in Central Kerala, North East to Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. Though the sanctuary covers an area of 25.16 km2, almost 9 km2 is under human inhbitation, thereby increasing the risk of invasion. Invasive plant species arose serious threats to the biodiversity of Kerala, eventhen such biological invasions are not well studied, especially in the protected areas of the state. In the present study, hundred observation points were laid across the sanctuary. Each such point was selected on the basis of visual invasive behaviour. The plant species thus observed were checked against the checklist of invasive plants of Kerala. 24 such plant species obtained were categorised into four group viz., high risk, medium risk, low risk and insignificant based on the probable impact risk. Among them 10 species are of high risk, 5 pose medium risk, 7 with low risk and 2 are insignificant with respect to the risk impact. Out of the 24 plants, 1 is tree, 8 are shrubs, 9 are herbs and 6 are climbers. Most introductions were intentional. Immediate measures are to be taken to restore habitats from alien invasive plants and eradicate the plants that are in the early phase of establishment. Their further spread, in terms of new introductions and already established are to be strictly checked.

Keywords

Thattekkad bird sanctuary, invasion, high risk, alien invasive plants, establishment

Conclusion

This study provides a primary data towards the invasive plants of Thattekkad sanctuary. Action plans are to be developed for the eradication of high risk species. Being a tourist destination, thorough checking of the belongings of tourists is needed to prevent spread and further introduction.

References

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How to cite this article

Arathy R.H., Mohanan N. and Lubaina A.S. (2023). Documentation of Invasive Angiosperm Species of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(4): 202-205.