Authors : R. S. Saha and M. K. Bangadkar
Page Nos : 163-166
Description :
Abstract:
The present study was carried out in the open space of Shree Mathuradas Mohots College of Science campus, Nagpur, Maharashtra, during June 2013 to Dec 2014, aimed at determining the impact of Parthenium weed on natural ecosystem of Nagpur. Quadrates method was used and 30 quadrates of 1x1 meter size were laid out. Quadrates were divided into infested and non infested group. Species diversity was recorded in each quadrate. Impact of biological control agent Z. Bicolorata on Parthenium and native biodiversity was also recorded in same quadrates after three months. The species richness in the non infested quadrates is higher than the infested quadrates. Parthenium weed comprised 28% of the infested field, while the non-parthenium component declined by 23% from non-infested quadrates. Some species are highly endangered because of Parthenium weed infestation while, some species were found better associated with Parthenium weed. The abundance of Parthenium in the infested area is declined after three months of application of Z. bicolorata. This decline in the biodiversity of natural ecosystem in Parthenium infested area is due to the allolopathic effect of Parthenium on other plants. In addition to its aggressiveness and allelopatic effect removal of top soil creates a good opportunity for Parthenium weed by minimizing the competition from native species and enhancing the chance of survival for the invading plants.
Keywords: Parthenium hysterophorus, biodiversity, Z. bicolorata, infestation
