The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
Invasive plant species are plants that are not native to an area and have a negative impact on the environment. They can outcompete native plants for resources, such as water and sunlight, and they can also alter the habitat in ways that make it difficult for native plants to survive. Invasive plant species can also have a negative impact on the economy, as they can damage crops and livestock.
In Tamil Nadu, invasive plant species are a major threat to native biodiversity. They are found in all of the state’s major ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Some of the most common invasive plant species in Tamil Nadu include:
- Lantana camara: This plant is native to South America, but it has been introduced to many parts of the world, including India. It is a fast-growing shrub that can form dense thickets, which can outcompete native plants for sunlight and water. Lantana camara also produces poisonous berries that can be harmful to livestock and humans.
- Parthenium hysterophorus: This plant is native to Mexico, but it has been introduced to many parts of the world, including India. It is a fast-growing annual that produces a large number of small white flowers. Parthenium hysterophorus is a major weed in agricultural fields, and it can also cause skin irritation and respiratory problems in humans.
- Eichhornia crassipes: This plant is native to South America, but it has been introduced to many parts of the world, including India. It is a free-floating aquatic plant that can form dense mats on the surface of water bodies. These mats can block sunlight and prevent native plants from growing, and they can also make it difficult for boats to navigate.
Invasive plant species are a serious threat to native biodiversity in Tamil Nadu. They can outcompete native plants for resources, alter the habitat in ways that make it difficult for native plants to survive, and damage crops and livestock. It is important to take steps to control invasive plant species, such as removing them from the environment and preventing them from spreading.