Invasive Species in Pakistan: Impacts, Challenges and Management Strategies
Invasive Species in Pakistan: Impacts, Challenges and Management Strategies
Muhammad Farooq* and Sanam Zarif
ABSTRACT
Ecosystems around the world, including Pakistan, are becoming increasingly concerned about invasive species, both plant and animal. These species, which are non-native to the area, seriously threaten native biodiversity and disturb local ecosystems. Invasive species spread more quickly as a result of increased worldwide travel and trade, necessitating management and control. This review study examines the numerous facets of invasive species in Pakistan, illuminating their effects, methods of management, and related difficulties. The necessity to supply the demand for fuel wood, lumber, and animal feed has historically led to the introduction of exotic species into Pakistan. Even while invasive species are not as severe in Pakistan as they are in some other nations, their effects on the region’s biodiversity are frequently overlooked. Significant ecological ramifications result from the roughly 700 foreign species of vascular plants that are found in Pakistan. These include high-impact invaders such as Broussonetia papyrifera, Prosopis juliflora, Parthenium hysterophorus, and Lantana camara. In Pakistan, invasive plants have significant negative effects on ecosystems and local flora displacement. For instance, the allelopathic effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis have adversely affected the growth of grass and bushes in the Malakand highlands. In order to stop invasive species from spreading, many management techniques are used. These consist of chemical control with herbicides such as glyphosate, mechanical removal, and organic pesticides. The use of biological control agents has proven successful in certain situations.
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