Status of Invasive Plant Species in the Dry Savanna Grasslands of Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Assam

Manabendra Ray Choudhury, Panna Deb, Hilloljyoti Singha

Abstract


The grasslands in the floodplains of North East India are known for its faunal diversity with special reference to its mega herbivores. This ecosystem is presently under threat with the invasion of various plant species. We studied current status of invasive plant species in dry savanna grassland of Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Assam.  Four invasive plants species have been recorded from the study area viz. Ageratum conyzoides (L.), Chromolaena odorata (L.) R. M. King & H. Rob., Mikania micrantha Kunth, and Mimosa diplotricha Sauvalle. Among the invasive plants, Chromolaena had the highest density (261 individuals ha-1) and IVI (7.88) followed by that of Mikania and Mimosa. Chromolaena was the most frequent species, while Ageratum was the least recorded plant. The status assessment of invasive plant species in this very important protected grassland ecosystem in North East India will be helpful in making a sound management protocol for the invasive plant species.

Keywords


Invasive Plant Species; Dry Savanna Grassland; Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park; North East India

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