Battling the ravages of Lantana Camara in Nepal
Invasive species are non-native species that spread or expand their range, potentially harming the aspects of the environment including the ecosystem and human health. They are one of the five major threats to the biodiversity in Nepal. Lantana Camara is one of such invasive species, which needs to be seriously researched and managed to keep the implication of the species to biodiversity and food security within the manageable threshold.
The native range of Lantana Camara is tropical America that ranges the countries of central and South America as well as Mexico and the Caribbean. Today, the shrub has spread over to nearly sixty countries and naturalized, causing a negative influence on the forest, grassland and agricultural field and was listed as one of the world’s 100 worst alien species in 2013. They were initially brought to India by the British around 200 years ago as an ornamental plant at the National Botanical Garden, which then spread and became invasive. From there, the species spread widely in Asia including Nepal.
Lantana Camara is one the worst invasive species in Nepal. The species is known as Ban Fanda or Banmara (Ban-Forest; mara-killer) in Nepali. It can withstand a range of climatic conditions and is frequently observed in many sections of Nepal, with elevations ranging from 100 to 1950 meters in diverse arrays of habitats including boundaries of fields, grasslands, and forests.
This plant reproduces vegetatively or by seeds, which are readily dispersed by birds, other animals that eat the fruit, its branches take root after coming into contact with soil, it is fire tolerant and it has a high phenotypic plasticity. They can grow up to six feet, the branches contain small thorns, stems are square and may have tiny prickles, leaves are simple, hairy, and have a strong unpleasant odor when crushed. The plant produces green berry-like drupe seeds which after maturity turn to dark purple and are eaten by birds and animals. It`s extensive seed production favors rat populations. Flowers are multicolored that may be white to pink, yellow to orange to red, or may change colors over time.
This invasive species thrives in jungle areas with no natural predators even if there are no herbivores or insects to be attacking them which means that unless this plant is physically uprooted or cut away there is no way to control it. Its widespread distribution is causing a global rise in numbers, limiting the growth of native plants. Its capability for rapid reproduction and allelopathic exclusion of other plant species allows it to develop dense monospecific stands, which can drastically lower soil fertility, and allelopathic alteration of soil properties which
decline the agricultural system productivity and have a detrimental effect on the biodiversity of the invaded areas.
It has the potential to block succession and cause the displacement of native species. It can cause striking changes in the structural and floristic composition of natural communities by interrupting the regeneration processes of other native species thus reducing species richness. In light of potential global change scenarios, various authors have projected the present and future distributions of L. camara.
Uses
Lantana camara, despite being an invasive species, have some benefits as well. Owing to their attractive color, they are highly used as ornamental plants. Furthermore, many communities across the globe use them as a medicine for various diseases including ringworm, headache, aerodontalgia, malaria, fever, rheumatoid arthritis, cuts, wounds, cough, and cold. Lantana camara is proven to have a range of medicinal properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant, antipyretic, larvicidal, and antifungal effects. The chemical makeup of the entire L-plant and its potential medical uses have been extensively researched and investigated by scientists and researchers worldwide during the past few decades. It is also recognized as a plant that yields essential oils, which are sold in stores under the name ‘lantana oil’.
There have been efforts to engage local communities of Tamil Nadu, India to make the furniture from the species through a Lantana Project. The program can be replicated in Nepal as well. Stems of Lantana can be used to make particleboard, dusted wood, toys, artisanal products such as carrying cages for chickens and other items.
Control measures
To control Lantana Camara different stakeholders have implemented diverse control measures including the public awareness about the adverse effects of invasive species in forest and physical control through continuous uprooting and cutting until the clear cut out. Mechanized equipment like tractors or electric saws may be employed in such high-density zones. Promoting conservation and natural regeneration involves early detection of invasive species like L. camara and immediate removal at the initial stage. This proactive approach aims to prevent the spread of the species and encourage the growth of native vegetation. The control efforts are not limited to forested areas alone; they also extend to roadsides and private lands.
Way forward
The invasion of Lantana camara in Nepal poses significant ecological and economic challenges, but concerted efforts are underway to mitigate its impact. Through collaborative initiatives and innovative management strategies, stakeholders are striving to raise public awareness, prevent further spread, and restore native ecosystems. While the threat of invasive species remains daunting, there is reason for optimism. The resilience and ingenuity of local communities, coupled with advancements in research and technology, offer-promising avenues for addressing this pressing issue. By harnessing the potential of Lantana camara for medicinal and economic purposes, we can turn a problem into an opportunity, empowering livelihoods and promoting sustainable practices. As we navigate the complex interplay between human activities and ecological systems, let us remember that our actions today will shape the world of tomorrow and let us remain steadfast in our commitment to conservation and embrace a future where biodiversity thrives and ecosystems flourish.
