Srinagar, May 31 -- Invasive alien species, also known as invasive exotic species or non-native species, are organisms introduced to regions or ecosystems outside their native range, establishing self-sustaining populations. These species often outcompete native counterparts, disrupting ecosystem balance and causing a range of negative impacts.
In the Kashmir Himalayas, a total of 571 plant species, including 96 invasive ones, have been recorded in the alien flora. Stinking chamomile (Anthemis cotula), originating in Eurasia, is an invasive annual weed discovered in the region in 1972 and is now considered one of the worst invaders.
The Mexican water lily (Nymphaea mexicana) has proliferated across Dal Lake, showcasing invasive characteri...