Review on InvasiAlien Plant Species of Jaunpur District, Uttar Pradesh, India: Diversity, Distribution and Ecological Impact

Abstract

Invasive alien plant species are increasingly recognized as a major threat to native biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and agricultural productivity. The present study was undertaken to document the diversity, distribution and ecological characteristics of invasive alien plant species occurring in Jaunpur District, Uttar Pradesh, India. Field surveys were conducted across different habitats of the district, including agricultural fields, roadsides, wastelands, riverbanks, residential areas and other disturbed habitats. Plant specimens were collected and identified using standard floristic literature and taxonomic resources. Information regarding habit, habitat, geographical origin, frequency, abundance and distribution pattern was recorded. The study revealed the occurrence of several invasive alien plant species belonging to different families, with species such as Partheniumhysterophorus L., Ageratum houstonianumMill.,Lantana camara L., Eichhorniacrassipes (Mart.) Solms, Chromolaenaodorata (L.) R.M.King&H.Rob., Argemonemexicana L., Xanthium strumarium L. and Alternantheraphiloxeroides (Mart.) Griseb. being commonly associated with disturbed habitats. Their occurrence varied considerably among habitats depending on disturbance, soil conditions, moisture availability and human activities. Many of these species showed aggressive colonization and competition with native vegetation, thereby potentially altering plant community structure and ecosystem processes. The study highlights the increasing occurrence of invasive alien plants in Jaunpur District and emphasizes the need for systematic monitoring, ecological assessment and appropriate management strategies. The findings may provide useful baseline information for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of invasive plant species in the region