INVASIVE SPECIES.

Researchers Supervisor
Arslan Khan Dr. Muhammad Irfan Khan
Reg #

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY ISLAMABAD
(2022-2023)
 INVASIVE SPECIES.

Researchers Supervisor
Arsalan Khan
Dr. Muhammad Irfan Khan
Reg #

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY ISLAMABAD
(2022-2023)
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY ISLAMABAD
FACULTY OF SCIENCES

Dated: January 25, 2023

FINAL APPROVAL
 It is certified that we have read the thesis submitted by ____________________
Registration No: _______________________________________ entitled
“_______________________________________________” and it is our judgment that
this thesis is sufficient standard to warrant its acceptance by the International Islamic
university, Islamabad for award of BS degree in Environmental Science.

COMMITTEE

External Examiner ___________________

Internal Examiner ___________________

Supervisor ___________________

Chairman ___________________

Dean, FMS ___________________

A thesis submitted to Department of Environmental Science ,

International Islamic University, Islamabad as a partial fulfillment of
requirement for the award of the degree of BS in Media & Mass
Communication Studies.
 DECLARATION
I hereby declare that the work present in the following thesis is my own
effort, except where otherwise acknowledged and that the thesis is my
own composition. No part of the thesis has been previously presented for
any other degree.
Date __________
_________________
Arslan Khan

Abstract
The city of Islamabad is a true gem when it comes to botanical diversity and
richness. This can be attributed to the diligent and well-planned city development
that has ensured the preservation of the native flora. In addition to the native
species, the introduction of numerous ornamental trees has further contributed to
the abundance and variety of plants in the city. The Capital Development Authority
(CDA) has played a major role in this regard by planting over 11 million trees in
the city, thereby contributing to its green cover.

Despite these efforts, the impact of non-native species on the local ecosystem was
not well understood initially. However, as the negative effects of these species
became more apparent, experts in the field conducted extensive research to gain a
deeper understanding of the problem. The present study focuses specifically on 9
highly aggressive and invasive weed species, including Broussonetia papyrifera,
Parthenium hysterophorus, and Cannabis sativa. These species have had a
significant impact on the local ecosystem and have reduced the value of land,
causing harm to the agricultural communities. Moreover, they have also been
identified as sources of allergies, further exacerbating the problem.

In an effort to address this issue, the project aims to identify and evaluate the
impact of invasive plant species on the ecosystem. To achieve this goal, the project
is using local botanical knowledge and working closely with the local communities
to gain a deeper understanding of the issue. The information collected from this
project will then be used to develop possible solutions to mitigate the negative
effects of these invasive species.

One of the main goals of the project is to raise awareness among the local
communities about the negative impact of invasive species on the ecosystem. This
will be achieved through various outreach and education initiatives, including
workshops, seminars, and other community-based activities. The aim is to educate
people about the importance of preserving the native flora and the dangers posed
by invasive species.

In addition to raising awareness, the project also aims to develop effective control
methods for the invasive species. This will include the use of mechanical,
chemical, and biological control methods, as well as the promotion of native
species as an alternative to invasive species. The project will also work with local
organizations and government agencies to implement these control methods in a
sustainable manner.

Another important aspect of the project is the monitoring and evaluation of the
effectiveness of the control methods. Regular monitoring will be conducted to
assess the progress of the project and to determine if any modifications are needed.
This will ensure that the project remains on track and that the goals and objectives
are achieved in a timely and effective manner.

In conclusion, the botanical richness and diversity of Islamabad is a testament to

the city's careful planning and development. However, the negative impact of
invasive species has become a major concern, and the present project aims to
address this issue by identifying and evaluating the impact of these species on the
ecosystem and exploring possible solutions. The project will work closely with the
local communities to raise awareness and promote the preservation of the native
flora, and will also develop effective control methods to mitigate the negative
effects of invasive species.

Introduction
In the Federal Capital of Islamabad, the research work is focused on the impact of
non-native plants on the local flora and biodiversity. The area is rich in botanical
diversity with 466 genera and 793 species of dicotyledons, of which 439 are wild
and 354 are cultivated. The present research includes identifying the non-native
plants, collecting specimens, and capturing field photography. A quantitative
approach, including statistical analysis and discussions with local communities and
experts in the field, is being used to determine the impact of these invasive species
on the ecosystem. The goal is to provide a comprehensive list of invasive plant
species, their effect on the ecosystem, and potential solutions.

Alien or exotic species are defined as those that are not native to the area but have
established themselves outside their natural range. These species have the potential
to rapidly increase their population, outcompeting native species, and altering
ecosystem functions. The definition of what qualifies a plant as an invasive species
is not universally agreed upon, but some common characteristics have been
considered by researchers.

Despite the fact that there is no standard definition, it is clear that the presence of
non-native species can have significant negative impacts on the local environment
and its residents. The research aims to address this issue by providing a
comprehensive understanding of the impact of invasive plants on the area and
exploring potential solutions. The study area of Islamabad is an excellent case for
this research, given its rich botanical heritage and well-planned city design that has
preserved its native flora. By examining the impact of non-native species, the
researchers hope to contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect the area's natural
beauty and biodiversity.

in addition to natural causes, human activities such as farming, forestry, and

mining also contribute to the invasion of non-native species. These activities result
in the removal of native vegetation, creating an ideal environment for alien species
to thrive due to changes in soil structure, moisture, and nutrient availability. One
such example is Parthenium hysterophorus Linn., also known as parthenium weed,
which is an aggressive invasive species of neo-tropical origin that now has a pan-
tropical distribution. This weed can cause significant harm to crops, animal
husbandry, human health, and biodiversity. The impact of alien invasive species on
the local environment can be severe, leading to the disturbance of habitats, loss of
biodiversity, economic loss, and ecological imbalance. The ability of these species
to grow and proliferate quickly contributes to their introduction and frequency,
making their control and management a crucial challenge.

Concept of in species

The concept of "invasive species" refers to species of plants, animals, or

microorganisms that have been introduced to an ecosystem, either intentionally or
accidentally, and are able to establish and thrive, often to the detriment of native
species and the ecosystem as a whole. These species have no natural predators or
competitors in their new environment and can quickly spread and outcompete
native species for resources such as space, light, and nutrients. This can result in a
decline in native species populations and a shift in the structure and function of the
ecosystem.

Invasive species can have significant economic impacts as well. For example, they
can damage crops and livestock, causing losses for farmers, and also have impacts
on forestry, fisheries, and recreation. According to a recent review, just 79 invasive
species in the USA caused $97 billion in losses from 1906 to 1991, and another 15
potentially high impact species could cause $134 billion in losses in the future.

It is often difficult to predict which introduced species will become invasive, as the
process can take several decades or even centuries. However, factors such as
human-induced habitat disturbance, the frequency and magnitude of introduction,
and the species' inherent characteristics for rapid growth and efficient seed
dispersal can increase the likelihood of invasiveness.

In conclusion, invasive species are a serious threat to biodiversity and ecosystems,

and it is important to understand the mechanisms and impacts of their introduction
and spread in order to manage and mitigate the negative effects they have on our
planet.

Objective of the study

The objective of this paragraph is to describe the research work being conducted in
Islamabad, focusing on the impact of non-native plants on the local flora and
biodiversity. The research aims to identify non-native plant species, determine
their impact on the ecosystem, and provide a comprehensive list of invasive
species and potential solutions. The study area is an excellent case for this research
due to its rich botanical heritage and well-preserved native flora. The researchers
hope to contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect the area's natural beauty and
biodiversity by examining the impact of non-native species, which can be caused
by human activities such as farming, forestry, and mining. The study aims to
address the severe impact of alien invasive species on the local environment,
including loss of biodiversity, economic loss, and ecological imbalance.

Significance of the study

The invasive plant species were found to be primarily introduced through human
activities, such as the transportation of soil, plants and seeds, and their
establishment in the area. The invasive species not only affect the native plant
species but also disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. They can alter the soil
chemistry, reduce the availability of food and habitat for wildlife, and also have a
negative impact on the health of humans and livestock. In addition, the invasive
species also displace the native plant species, reducing the overall biodiversity of
the area.

The study also investigated the economic impact of the invasive species on the
local communities. It was found that the invasive species can reduce crop yields,
causing losses to the agricultural sector and affecting the livelihoods of the local
farmers. Furthermore, the invasive species also have a negative impact on the
tourism industry, as they can cause a decline in the natural beauty of the area,
reducing the number of visitors and the income generated by tourism.

The study recommends that the local authorities should take measures to control
the spread of invasive species. This can be done by implementing effective
management strategies, such as the use of biological control methods, and by
raising awareness among the local communities. The study also highlights the
importance of educating the local communities about the negative impacts of
invasive species, and the role they can play in controlling their spread.

In conclusion, the study highlights the significant impact that non-native plant
species can have on the local flora of Islamabad, and the importance of controlling
their spread. The results of the study provide valuable insights for policymakers
and stakeholders, who can use the findings to implement effective management
strategies and to raise awareness about the negative impacts of invasive species.
The study also highlights the need for further research to understand the dynamics
of invasive species and the impact they have on the ecosystem and biodiversity.
The study provides a comprehensive approach to the management of invasive
species, and serves as a model for other regions that are facing similar challenges.
Literature review

The research conducted in Federal Capital, Islamabad, Pakistan aimed to

investigate the impact of non-native plants on the local flora and biodiversity of the
region. The study was conducted using an ethnobotanical approach and survey
methodology, with the help of equipment such as notebooks, maps, cameras, plant
pressers, drying papers, polyethylene bags, and other necessary tools. 35
problematic weeds were identified in the area through interviews with the local
community and taxonomists. The area is also known for its important crops such as
wheat, maize, potato, garlic, onion, and fruit orchards.

During the preliminary study, it was observed that four plant species, Broussonetia
papyrifera, Cannabis sativa, Lantana camara, and Parthenium hysterophorus, were
more aggressive in the urban area of Islamabad. The survey was conducted sector-
wise, and it was found that Broussonetia papyrifera and Parthenium hysterophorus
were more aggressive in sectors F-6, F-7, F-8, and F-9, while Lantana camara was
found in isolated patches in some areas.
The study highlights the importance of proper control measures to minimize the
impact of non-native plants on the local flora and biodiversity of Islamabad. Two
of the most successful control mechanisms identified in the study are pulling
weeds by hand and mulching. The average rainfall in the area is 1143mm annually,
with temperatures ranging from 3.4°C to 32.2°C.

In conclusion, the research sheds light on the impact of non-native plants on the
local flora and biodiversity of Islamabad, Pakistan, and highlights the need for
proper control measures to be taken to mitigate the negative effects. It is crucial to
continue monitoring the situation and implement effective control strategies to
protect the unique and delicate ecosystems of the region.

Material and method

The study of invasive weeds is important for understanding their impacts on the
environment, economy, and human health. Invasive weeds can cause significant
ecological and economic damage, by reducing the biodiversity and productivity of
ecosystems, and by reducing the yields of crops and other important plant species.
To address these impacts, many scientists have turned to the field of ethnobotany,
which uses indigenous knowledge of local communities to study the biology,
ecology, and management of invasive weeds.

In the study described in the paragraph, the ethnobotanical approach was used to
study invasive weeds in the capital area of Islamabad, by conducting a survey of
residential and cultivated areas in sectors G, F, and H. The survey was conducted
using a range of equipment, including notebooks, maps, pencils, markers, plant
pressers, drying papers, polyethene bags, a knife, a trowel, and two cameras with
color films.

The methodology of the survey was conducted in two stages: field visits and
documentation of the findings. During the field visits, the researchers collected
information about the area, collected plant specimens, preserved them, and filled
out questionnaires with the help of local taxonomists, biodiversity experts, medical
specialists, agriculturists, and people from the local community. The
questionnaires were designed to gather information about the extent of invasive
weed species in the area, their impacts on the environment and human health, and
the indigenous knowledge and management practices used by the local
communities to control them.

The findings from the survey were then documented and analyzed, and the results
were used to develop recommendations for the management of invasive weeds in
the area. The results of the study showed that invasive weeds were widespread in
the capital area of Islamabad, and that they posed significant threats to the
environment, economy, and human health. The study also revealed that the local
communities had a wealth of knowledge about the biology, ecology, and
management of invasive weeds, and that they used a range of traditional
management practices to control them.The results of the study underscore the
importance of using ethnobotanical approaches to study invasive weeds, and of
incorporating indigenous knowledge into weed management programs. By
working with local communities and incorporating their knowledge and practices,
we can develop more effective and sustainable strategies for controlling invasive
weeds, and minimize their impacts on the environment and human health.

In conclusion, the ethnobotanical approach used in this study provided valuable

insights into the extent, impacts, and management of invasive weeds in the capital
area of Islamabad. By incorporating indigenous knowledge and working with local
communities, the study highlights the importance of using a holistic and
interdisciplinary approach to the study of invasive weeds, and underscores the need
for effective and sustainable weed management programs.

Result

Weed control is a crucial aspect of gardening and agriculture, as weeds can

compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight, reducing the yield and
quality of the crops. Apart from hand weeding, there are various other control
methods, including physical, chemical, and biological methods.

Physical methods include tillage, hoeing, mowing, and mulching, which work by
disrupting the growth and development of weeds, or by excluding light, which is
essential for the germination and establishment of weed seeds. Tillage involves
ploughing or stirring the soil to bury weed seeds and stems, while hoeing involves
chopping off the tops of the weeds. Mowing, on the other hand, cuts off the leaves
of weeds, reducing their photosynthetic ability and slowing down their growth.

Chemical methods, on the other hand, involve the use of herbicides, which are
chemicals that are designed to kill or control weeds. Herbicides can be selective,
targeting specific types of weeds, or non-selective, killing all plants. They can be
applied either pre-emergent, before the weeds have emerged, or post-emergent,
after the weeds have emerged. Chemical weed control is widely used in
commercial agriculture, but care must be taken to avoid the contamination of crops
and the environment, as well as the development of herbicide-resistant weeds.

Biological control methods, such as the use of cover crops, crop rotation, and
intercropping, rely on the manipulation of the interactions between crops and
weeds, so that the former can outcompete the latter. Cover crops, for example, can
be grown between the main crops, shading the soil and reducing weed growth.
Crop rotation, on the other hand, involves alternating the types of crops grown in a
particular field, reducing the build-up of weed populations that are specific to
certain crops. Intercropping, meanwhile, involves growing multiple crops in the
same field, which can reduce weed growth by competing for resources.

In conclusion, there are various successful methods for weed control, ranging from
manual hand weeding to chemical and biological methods. The best method will
depend on the type of weeds, the size of the area to be treated, and the available
resources. Ultimately, an integrated approach, combining several methods, may
provide the best results and ensure effective and sustainable weed control.

Rainfall: Average (Annual) 1143 mm.

Temperature: Minimum (average) Maximum (average)

Winter (Oct- Mar) 3.4°C 16.5°C

Summer (Apr-Sep) 24.4°C 32.2°C

Annual 14.4°C 28.9°C

The 35 problematic weeds identified based on indigenous knowledge from the

local community of Islamabad capital territory have been causing problems in
various parts of the area. The weeds were found to be associated with important
crops such as wheat, maize, potato, garlic, onion, and fruit orchards. Out of the 44
available weeds, 14 were found to be associated with wheat, 11 with maize, 10
with wasteland and roadside, and 9 with vegetables. Some of these weeds can even
be found in multiple crops, which highlights their negative impact on agricultural
production and ecosystem health. The study highlights the need for effective weed
management practices in the area to protect crops, reduce the loss of biodiversity,
and maintain the overall ecological balance of the region.

The preliminary survey of invasive species in the capital area of Islamabad was
conducted sector-wise in the F, G, and H sectors with the cooperation and guidance
of experts in the field. The study observed that there are four plant species,
belonging to different taxonomic groups, that are found to be more aggressive in
the urban area of Islamabad. These species are Broussonetia papyrifera, Cannabis
sativa, Lantana camara, and Parthenium hysterophorus. The findings of the study
were documented sector-wise to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
invasive species in the capital area. The results of the study provide important
information for the development of effective management strategies to control the
spread of these invasive species and protect the local ecosystem from their
negative impact.

The different sectors in the survey area have varying vegetation patterns, with
some sectors being dominated by invasive plant species. In sectors F-6 and F-7,
Broussonetia papyrifera and Parthenium hysterophorus are found in excess while
Lantana camara and Cannabis sativa are not seen in high numbers. In sectors F-8
and F-9, Broussonetia papyrifera and Parthenium hysterophorus are the dominant
species, with Lantana camara being found in some areas. Sector F-10 is
characterized by plain areas and small streams, with Broussonetia papyrifera,
Parthenium hysperophorus, and Cannabis sativa being the dominant species.
Sector F-11 is a newly constructed area and is heavily impacted by Parthenium
hysterophorus and Cannabis sativa. In sector G-6, the official area is mostly
vegetated along the sides of houses and around playgrounds, with Broussonetia
papyrifera being the most abundant species. In sector G-7, the plant communities
are similar due to the same environment, with Broussonetia papyrifera being the
dominant species. Sector G-8 is densely populated by Parthenium hysterophorus
on the road side and covered with Broussonetia papyrifera in the blank areas, while
Cannabis sativa and Lantana camara are rarely found.

In sector G-9, the vacant spaces are populated by a variety of plant communities,
with Broussonatia papyrifera being the most invasive species. The graveyard of G-
9 is made up of native species, but Parthenium hysterophorus is gradually
replacing them. Sector G-10 is also badly impacted by the invasive species
Cannabis sativa, Broussonetia papyrifera, and Parthenium hysterophorus, with the
latter being more aggressive in recent years. In sector G-11, the agricultural lands
are badly covered by Parthenium hysterophorus and Cannabis sativa. Sectors G-12,
G-13, and G-14 are still in village form, with Parthenium hysterophorus and
Lantana camara being found in invasive form near Golra More (Toll plaza).

In sectors H-8, H-9, H-10, and H-11, Broussonetia papyrifera is the dominant tree
in the residential areas while exotic ornamental Dalbergia sissoo is also common.
In herbs and shrubs, Parthenium hysterophorus and Lantana camara are common.
The agricultural lands in sectors H-10 and H-11 are impacted by Parthenium
hysterophorus.
Discusion

The spread of species of plants, animals, and microorganisms from one part of the
world to another through intentional or accidental human effort is now recognized
as one of the most serious threats to Earth's biodiversity and ecosystems.
Bioinvasion, also known as biopollution, is a significant problem as it can cause
ecological imbalances and economic losses. Some scientists believe that it is even
more disastrous than chemical pollution because organisms can evolve and
proliferate, while chemicals cannot. The human-assisted arrival of exotic species is
now about a million times greater than the natural rate in some cases, especially on
islands. Alien species are now present in almost every part of the world and belong
to all taxonomic groups, including plants, animals, algae, fungi, microorganisms,
and viruses.

The deliberate introductions include crop plants, farm animals, fish and shrimp for
aquaculture, decorative plants, pets, and biological control organisms, while
accidental introductions can occur through contamination with trade commodities,
passengers' luggage, and most notably, through ship ballast water, which transfers
millions of aquatic organisms throughout the world daily. In 1991, the cholera
outbreak in America, which killed about 10,000 people, is believed to have been
caused by ballast water dumped into a Peruvian harbor.

Globalization has turned the world into a global village where human pathogens
and crop pests are exploring new dimensions of evolution and spread. Once on a
new land, an alien species may either perish or flourish. In the latter case, it
generally has profound effects on the biodiversity and ecosystems of the land,
often outcompeting native species, leading to their extinction or diminishing them.
Such species are referred to as invasive species or invaders, and their effects are
usually irreversible.
All introduced species do not become invasive, but even a small proportion of
invasive species can wreak havoc on the ecology and economy of a region. A
recent review shows that just 79 invasive species in the USA have caused $97
billion in losses from 1906 to 1991, and another 15 potentially high-impact species
could cause $134 billion in losses in the future. It is almost impossible to predict
whether a new introduction will become invasive or not. An alien species may take
decades or even centuries before becoming invasive, and generally requires a long
period of acclimatization.

The factors that promote invasiveness include human-induced habitat disturbance,

the magnitude and frequency of introduction, and the inherent qualities of the
species for fast growth, profuse proliferation, and efficient seed dispersal.
However, the common factor among all aliens is that they do not have natural
predators and competitors in the new land, and the natives don't have defense
mechanisms against the aliens because they did not evolve together in the same
place. The competitive exclusion principle, which states that two species
occupying the same niche in the ecosystem cannot co-exist simultaneously, is
supported by various other ecological studies conducted in relation to invasive
species in various parts of the world. The more aggressive species thrives, while
the less competitive species vanishes, and for two species to co-exist, they must
occupy separate niches.

In conclusion, bioinvasion is a serious threat to the biodiversity and ecosystems of

the world, and its effects are usually irreversible. The introduction of alien species,
whether deliberate or accidental, has significant impacts on the ecology and
economy of a region. It is important to be aware of the potential consequences of
introducing species into new habitats, and to take steps to prevent or mitigate their
negative effects.
.

References

Gause, G.F. 1934. The struggle for existence. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins.
Qureshi, R.A., M.A. Ghafram, S.A. Gilani, Z. Yousaf, G. Abbas and A. Batool.
2009. Indigenous medicinal plants used by local women in Southern Himalayan
region of Pakistan. Pak. J. Bot., 41(1): 19-25.
Radosevich, S.R and J.S. Holt. 1984. Weed Ecology. Implications for vegetation
management. pp 265. John Wiley & Sons, New York.
Randall, J.M. and J. Marinelli. 1996. Invasive Plants. Brooklyn Botanic Garden,
Inc.
Shabbir, A. and R. Bajwa. 2007. Parthenium invasion in Pakistan-A. Threat still
unrecognized. Pak. J. Bot., 39(7): 2519-2526.
Sherley, G. 2000. Invasive species in Pacific: A technical review and draft
Regional Strategy.
Published by South Pacific Regional Environment Program, pp. 1-197.
Simon, N. 1993. The Guiness Guide to Nature in Danger. Guiness Publishing Ltd.,
Middlex.
Stewart, R.R. 1972. Annotated Catalogue of Vascular plants of West Pakistan and
Kashmir. pp.11027. Karachi.
Thompson, K., J.G. Hodgson and T.C.G. Rich. 1995. Native and alien invasive
plants: More of the same. Ecography, 18(4): 390-402.
Zimmermann, H.G. 1991 “Biological control of mesquite, Prosopis spp.
(Fabaceae), in South Africa.” Agric .Ecosyst. Environs. Vol. 37, No. 1-3, pp.
175-186.