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Context: The National Green Tribunal's decision to seek a comprehensive report on the removal of the invasive mussel species, Mytella strigata, in the Ennore-Pulicat wetland is a crucial step in addressing the ecological threat posed by invasive species.
Key Highlights
Background |
●The Ennore-Pulicat wetland, a vital ecological area, is facing a significant threat due to the rapid proliferation of an invasive mussel species, Mytella strigata, known locally as kaaka aazhi. ●This South American mussel variety has spread extensively, covering the riverbed and hindering the natural behaviour of local species like prawns, yellow clams (manja matti), and green mussels (pachai aazhi). ●The situation has been brought to the attention of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) through an application filed by residents. |
Complainant's Concerns |
●Impact on Local Species: The invasive mussels have formed a dense carpet on the riverbed. This growth is preventing prawns from grazing and burying themselves in the sediment, disrupting their natural habitat and behaviour. ●Commercial Impact: Apart from prawns, the invasive mussels are adversely affecting commercially valuable species such as yellow clams and green mussels, which are vital for the local economy. ●Environmental Impact: The spread of these mussels has led to the formation of a deep layer of sludge, one foot in depth, consisting of black, foul-smelling slimy excreta. This situation is causing severe environmental degradation in the affected area. |
Government's Response |
●The government pleader argued that the kaaka aazhi species is not an alien species. According to their argument, this species is listed in the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WPA), indicating that it is not an invasive entity. ●The government's stance raises a jurisdictional question, implying that the NGT might not have the authority to handle matters related to the WPA, as it is not listed in Schedule I of the NGT Act. |
NGT's Response and Directives |
●The NGT Bench, acknowledging the legal complexity of the matter, ordered the Fisheries Department and the Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority to provide a detailed report. This report is expected to include information about ongoing dredging activities and any action plans prepared to address the spread of the invasive mussel species. ●The NGT Bench remarked that the jurisdictional aspect concerning the Wildlife Protection Act needs further examination, indicating that this legal matter will be explored in future hearings. |
Implications and Significance |
●Ecological Impact: The unchecked proliferation of invasive species can severely disrupt local ecosystems, leading to imbalances in the natural habitat and threatening biodiversity. ●Economic Consequences: Beyond the environmental concerns, the invasion of these mussels jeopardizes the livelihoods of local communities dependent on fishing and related activities. ●Legal Precedent: The case sets a precedent for addressing jurisdictional challenges concerning invasive species within the framework of existing wildlife protection laws, balancing the need for conservation with legal regulations. |
Invasive Species
About
Impact
Some of the invasive species in India |
|
Water Hyacinth |
●Origin: Native to South America. ●Effect: Water hyacinth forms dense mats on water bodies, blocking sunlight and reducing oxygen levels, which harms aquatic life. It obstructs waterways, making navigation and fishing difficult. Additionally, it hampers irrigation and affects agricultural productivity. |
Lantana |
●Origin: Native to the Americas. ●Effect: Lantana is a highly invasive shrub that forms impenetrable thickets, preventing the growth of native vegetation. This reduces biodiversity, affects animal habitats, and inhibits the regeneration of forests and grasslands. Its leaves are toxic, making it unsuitable for livestock consumption. |
African Catfish |
●Origin: Native to Africa. ●Effect: African catfish are aggressive predators that disrupt local aquatic ecosystems by preying on native fish and other aquatic organisms. This predatory behaviour can lead to a decline in native fish populations, upsetting the balance of the ecosystem. |
Parthenium Weed |
●Origin: Native to North America. ●Effect: Parthenium weed is allelopathic, releasing chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. It displaces native vegetation, reducing forage for livestock and affecting agricultural productivity. Additionally, its pollen causes respiratory allergies in humans and livestock. |
Prosopis juliflora |
●Origin: Native to South America. ●Effect: Prosopis juliflora invades drylands, displacing native vegetation. It consumes large quantities of water, leading to soil salinity and reduced soil fertility. Its thorny nature makes it difficult to clear, impacting agricultural practices and grazing lands. |
Mikania |
●Origin: Native to Central and South America. ●Effect: Mikania grows rapidly and forms dense thickets, smothering native vegetation and reducing biodiversity in forests. Its aggressive growth inhibits natural regeneration and disrupts the ecological balance of affected areas. |
Apple Snail |
●Origin: Native to South America. ●Effect: Apple snails feed on aquatic plants, damaging rice crops and affecting agricultural yields. Their voracious appetite makes them a threat to rice paddies, impacting food security and the economy. |
Salvinia |
●Origin: Native to South America. ●Effect: Salvinia forms dense floating mats, blocking sunlight and oxygen from reaching the water. This disrupts aquatic ecosystems, depleting oxygen levels and impacting fish and other aquatic life. It also hampers water transportation and affects the livelihoods of fishing communities. |
Mimosa |
●Origin: Native to Central and South America. ●Effect: Mimosa invades wetlands and waterways, displacing native plants. Its dense growth disrupts natural habitats, reduces biodiversity, and alters the structure of affected ecosystems. |
Red-vented Bulbul |
●Origin: Native to South Asia. ●Effect: The red-vented bulbul competes with native bird species for resources, including nesting sites and food. This competition can lead to declines in native bird populations, affecting biodiversity and potentially disrupting local ecosystems. |
Acacia species |
●Origin: Native to Australia, Africa, and Asia. ●Effect: Certain Acacia species become invasive, displacing native vegetation. They alter soil composition and structure, affecting the growth of native plants and disrupting natural habitats. |
Challenges
Way Forward to address the challenges posed by invasive species
Prevention |
●Strict Regulations: Enforcing stringent regulations on the importation of plants, animals, and other potentially invasive species is crucial. This includes proper quarantine protocols and border controls. ●Public Awareness: Educating the public, industries, and policymakers about the risks associated with invasive species is essential. Awareness campaigns can promote responsible behaviours. ●Early Detection: Developing systems for early detection and rapid response to new invasive species arrivals is vital to prevent their establishment and spread. |
Management |
●Research and Monitoring: Investing in research to understand the behaviour and impact of invasive species is fundamental. Regular monitoring programs can track their spread and assess the effectiveness of control measures. ●Biological Control: Introducing natural predators or diseases specific to invasive species can help control their population without harming native species. ●Mechanical and Chemical Control: Utilizing methods like manual removal or targeted chemical control, under strict supervision, can be employed to manage invasive species. However, this must be done with care to minimize collateral damage. |
Restoration and Conservation |
●Ecosystem Restoration: Restoring degraded ecosystems can enhance their resilience against invasive species. Healthy ecosystems are more resistant to invasions. ●Conservation Efforts: Protecting and conserving native species and their habitats is crucial. Preserving biodiversity makes it harder for invasive species to establish themselves. |
International Cooperation |
●Collaboration: Collaborating with neighbouring countries and international organizations is essential. Sharing knowledge, technologies, and best practices can enhance the collective ability to manage invasive species. ●Policy Harmonization: Working towards harmonizing policies related to invasive species can ensure consistent regulations and responses, particularly in regions with porous borders. |
Research and Innovation |
●Innovation: Encouraging innovation in the development of new techniques and technologies for invasive species management is vital. This includes exploring advanced biological control methods and sustainable chemical alternatives. ●Capacity Building: Investing in training and building the capacity of scientists, policymakers, and local communities is necessary. A well-informed and skilled workforce is essential for effective invasive species management. |
Conclusion
Must Read Articles:
National Green Tribunal (NGT): https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/national-green-tribunal-8
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. The term “Mytella strigata” is frequently seen in the news, it is related to: A) A type of fish found in freshwater bodies B) A species of invasive mussel C) A type of edible seaweed D) A marine mammal species Answer: B |
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. What are the ecological and economic impacts of invasive species, and what strategies can be employed to effectively manage and control their spread in natural ecosystems? |
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