While ecotourism destinations across the State are expecting a rise in footfall, unregulated activities can cause serious ecological consequences including loss of biodiversity.
According to experts, trekking, boating and camping facilities in forest interiors can lead to the spread of invasive alien species that can harm endemic plants. Most wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are currently witnessing a rising incursion of high-risk varieties that can displace native taxa.
“As per studies conducted by the Kerala Forest Research Institute, various tourism activities can inadvertently introduce invasive alien species to vulnerable ecosystems. Tourists and department staff carry seeds stuck to their clothes and vehicles and disperse it to various parts. The number of the invasive species has increased over the years and all forests in the State are facing the issue. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one worst-affected area,” T.V. Sajeev, Senior Principal Scientist, Nodal Center for Biological Invasions, KFRI, told The Hindu.
