Noteworthy plant invasions in the flora of Western Ghats of Maharashtra.

Abstract

A description is given of 40 invasive plant species that were identified during surveys of the flora of the Western Ghats, Maharashtra. Details of country of origin, period of introduction, mode and place of introduction, habitats invaded by the species and control measures, if any, are discussed. The highest distribution potential and prolific adaptability were shown by Ageratum conyzoides, Cassia tora, Eichhornia crassipes, Euphorbia heterophylla, Gomphrena celosioides, Ipomoea carnea, Leucaena leucocephala and Parthenium hysterophorus.