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Grassland Invaders Threaten Assam’s Dibru-Saikhowa National Park

Why in News ?

A new scientific study has revealed that both native and invasive plant species are altering the riverine ecosystem of Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (DSNP) in Assam, threatening its unique grasslands, biodiversity, and feral horses, while intensifying habitat loss and ecological imbalance.

Study Findings and Key Observations:

  • Study titled “Grasslands in Flux” published in Earth journal.
  • Analysed land use and land cover (1999–2024) using remote sensing and GIS.
  • Native invaders: Bombax ceiba (Simalu), Lagerstroemia speciosa (Ajar).
  • Invasive species: Chromolaena odorata, Ageratum conyzoides, Parthenium hysterophorous, Mikania micrantha.
  • Land-use changes:

    • Grassland declined from 78% (2000) to substantial loss by 2024.
    • Shrubland expanded, degraded forests increased to 52 sq. km (23.47%).
  • Key drivers: Brahmaputra floods and anthropogenic pressure from villages.
  • Consequences: loss of biodiversity, reduced carbon storage, and worsening climate change impacts.

Way Forward and Recommendations

  • Launch targeted grassland recovery project.
  • Control invasive species through surveillance and scientific management.
  • Relocation of forest villages and community-led conservation.
  • Strengthen staffing, monitoring, and eco-restoration initiatives.
  • Ensure protection of endemic grassland fauna and enhance carbon storage to mitigate climate change.

Key points : Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (DSNP)

●      Location: Tinsukia & Dibrugarh districts, Assam.

●      Area: ~425 sq. km, situated between Brahmaputra & Dibru rivers.

●      Habitat type: Riverine, wetland, and semi-evergreen forests.

●      Unique Fauna:

○       ~200 feral horses (descendants of WWII military horses).

○       Bengal florican, hog deer, swamp grass babbler (globally threatened).

●      Conservation Issues: Grassland degradation, invasive species spread, flood impacts.

●      Status: Biosphere Reserve, Important Bird Area (IBA).