Global Study Reveals $2.2 Trillion Cost of Invasive Species
Why focus: GS3 Environment. Explicit mentions of Lantana camara and Senna spectabilis make this a near-guaranteed flora identification/trap question.
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
- ▶
BEFORE: The economic impact of invasive species globally and their specific spatial footprint in India lacked comprehensive recent quantification. NOW: A definitive $2.2 trillion global figure and the revelation that 40% of Indian tiger habitats are colonized elevate IAS to a critical economic and conservation priority.
- ▶
BEFORE: Invasive species eradication in Indian forests was often piecemeal, relying on ad-hoc funding. NOW: The stark data has triggered state-led, systematic eradication drives, particularly in Tamil Nadu, integrating invasive management into mainstream forest administration.
- ▶
BEFORE: Management of tiger reserves predominantly focused on anti-poaching measures and core-buffer zoning. NOW: Habitat restoration through the large-scale removal of non-native flora has become an equally vital component of national tiger conservation strategies to prevent prey-base collapse.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
With Reference ToWith reference to the ecological impact of invasive alien species in India, consider the following statements: 1. Lantana camara and Senna spectabilis are native floral species that help stabilize tiger habitats in southern India. 2. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework includes a specific target to reduce the rate of introduction and establishment of invasive alien species. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?