Question

What is meant by “alien species” invasion? Name one plant and one animal alien species that are a threat to our Indian species.

Answer 1

Native biodiversity in virtually any form of ecosystem on earth has been compromised by invasive alien species, introduced and/or dispersed outside their natural ecosystems, and is one of the main threats to biodiversity. Invasive alien animals have led to nearly 40 percent of all recorded animal extinctions since the 17th century (CBD, 2006).

Complete answer:
- Biodiversity is the abundance of life on Earth and its variability. Typically, biodiversity is a representation of variation at the level of biology, plants, and habitats.
- Closer to the equator, which is the outcome of the warm atmosphere and relatively high productivity, terrestrial biodiversity is typically greater. Biodiversity is not uniformly spread on Earth and is highest in tropical areas.
- Plants, pathogens, animals and other organisms are invasive alien species which are foreign to an ecosystem and that can trigger environmental or economic damage or negatively impact human health.
- In particular, they have a detrimental effect on biodiversity, including the loss or extinction of indigenous organisms by competition, predation or spread of pathogens and the destruction of local habitats and functions of habitats.
- Plant: Lantana camara.
- Animal: Equus caballus, Canis familiaris(dog).

Note: The problem continues to intensify worldwide at high socio-economic, health and ecological costs. Invasive alien species worsen hunger and endanger growth by impacting agriculture, fisheries, forestry and natural ecosystems, which form an significant basis for the livelihoods of people in growing countries. Climate change, deforestation, habitat destruction and human-induced disruptions aggravate this damage.