Question

Why Eichornia crassipies is labelled as invasive species?

Answer 1

Invasive species: It is also known as exotic, non-native or introduced species, are plants and animals that have been introduced, either intentionally or accidentally, into areas outside their natural ranges and cause economic or environmental harm.

Eichornia crassipies is often a highly problematic invasive species outside its native range. It has been widely planted as a water ornamental around the world because of its striking flowers. Wherever it has encountered suitable environmental conditions it has spread with phenomenal rapidity to form vast monotypic stands in lakes, rivers and rice paddy fields. Then it adversely affects human activities (fishing, water transport) and biodiversity. It is impossible to eradicate, and often only an integrated management strategy, inclusive of biological control, can provide a long-term solution to this pest.

This is the reason Eichornia crassipies is labeled as invasive species.