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Lantana Camara
July 28 , 2025
13 hrs 0 min
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- Lantana camara is now classified as an invasive alien species (non-native species causing ecological/economic harm).
- It is a pantropical weed species, is native to the tropical and sub-tropical regions of Central and South America.
- It was first introduced in India in the early 18th century as an ornamental plant.
- In Himachal Pradesh, it currently infests around 3,25,282 hectares (3,252.82 sq. km) of recorded forest area.
- Initial surveys in 2010–11 and 2015–16 showed infestation across 2,35,491.93 hectares in seven forest circles — Dharamshala, Nahan, Hamirpur, Chamba, Bilaspur, Mandi, and Shimla.
- The weed forms dense bush networks, often overtaking forest edges with sparse tree canopies.
- Lantana releases allelochemicals (growth-inhibiting compounds), suppressing other plant species and replacing native vegetation.
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