In a one-day workshop at the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES-CCMB), scientists and policymakers emphasized the pressing need for an overarching policy to address the looming threat of invasive species, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. The workshop, titled “Collaborative Strategies for Managing Aquatic Biological Invasions,” was organized as part of the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) ‘One Week, One Lab’ program, with participants calling for a comprehensive strategy to ensure a sustainable future.
“Invasive species, intentionally or otherwise, have caused havoc to the flora and fauna across the country, affecting even the pristine riverine systems in both eastern and western ghats, putting heavy pressure on biodiversity systems,” remarked S. Umapathy from CCMB. Alarming levels of African and American catfish among other aquatic species were noted as a cause for concern.
Karthikeyan Vasudevan, another expert from CCMB, highlighted the accidental introduction of invasive species, such as bullfrogs, spotted deers, giant snails, mynah, and house sparrows in the Andaman Islands, resulting in damage to local flora and fauna. Urging quick interventions, Vasudevan also acknowledged the ethical challenges in removing invasive species, emphasizing ongoing efforts in exploring biological controls.
Kallicharan S. Khartade from TS Biodiversity Board highlighted that 25 out of 432 aquatic species have been identified as invasive, underscoring the threats posed by pollution, over-exploitation, encroachments, and tourism-recreation to biodiversity preservation. While stressing the importance of community participation, Khartade called for improvements in the functioning of biodiversity management councils.
Special Chief Secretary Rajat Kumar expressed concern over the economic impact, stating that “biological invasions” have cost the country USD 127 billion, with only a fraction of invasive species studied. He emphasized the need for a concerted scientific effort to understand the comparative dangers posed by aquatic and terrestrial invasive species.
CSIR-CCMB Director Vinay K. Nandicoori highlighted the outcomes of LaCONES research, emphasizing the necessity for ground-level interventions to monitor and eradicate aquatic invasive species. The meeting, attended by over 60 participants from various scientific institutions and voluntary bodies, underscored the importance of protecting native biodiversity, safeguarding the rural economy, and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.
