INVASIVE WEEDS IN SOUTHERN AND SOUTH-EASTERN RAJASTHAN WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ‘NALS’ AND GORGESKajal Anuragi, Farhat Banu and Satish Kumar SharmaAbstract Destruction of habitats and growth of invasive species are the major threats to the ecosystem universally. These species alter the composition of native community and disturb the micro-climatic conditions which results in considerable economic as well as ecological imbalance. Anthropogenic activities play a vital role in accelerating the growth of weeds in natural ecosystem which impact native flora adversely. Since 2019, the study has been commenced to assess the distribution of potential invasive species especially weeds in different habitats of southern and south-eastern Rajasthan and suggest need of efficient management/ eradication practices to control their spread as the habitat is more sensitive for dispersal. The objective of the paper was to study the flora of invasive weeds with their current distribution and status. The study also focused on the potential as well as their effect on the invaded areas. During the study period, 27 species were reported from 26 ânalsâ and gorges and 12 other species were also reported in and around five cities of the region. The assessment of the alien flora is expected to be helpful in designing informed management and monitoring strategies against problematic plant invasions. |