Invasive Alien Plant Species in Bhavani Islands, Vijayawada, NTR District, Andhra Pradesh State

Bhavani Island, situated in the Krishna River near Vijayawada, is one of the largest river islands in India and represents an ecologically significant riparian ecosystem. The island supports diverse vegetation but is increasingly threatened by invasive alien plant species (IAPS). These non-native plants establish rapidly, outcompete indigenous flora, alter habitat structure, and reduce biodiversity. Although a comprehensive inventory of invasive plants on Bhavani Island is still lacking, field observations and regional studies indicate the occurrence of several problematic invasive species commonly distributed throughout the Krishna river basin and Andhra Pradesh. Effective management of these species is essential for conserving the island's ecological integrity and sustaining its biodiversity. Bhavani Island is a river island situated in the middle of the Krishna River near Vijayawada in NTR District, Andhra Pradesh. Covering about 133 acres, the island consists of floodplain vegetation, grasslands, wetlands, plantations, and landscaped tourist areas. Periodic flooding and human activities create favourable conditions for the establishment and spread of invasive alien plant species. invasive alien plant species (IAPS) are non-native plants that establish, spread rapidly, and adversely affect native biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, agriculture, and local livelihoods. Common Invasive Alien Plant Species likely occurring in Bhavani Islands. Based on the ecology of the Krishna River floodplains and invasive flora reported from Andhra Pradesh, the following species are commonly expected: examples Prosopis juliflora, Parthenium hysterophorus, Eichhornia crassipes, Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa, Lantana camara, Hyptis suaveolens, Leucaena leucocephala, Alternanthera philoxeroides, Mimosa pigra, Ricinus communis. These species are among the recognized invasive alien flora of India and are widely distributed in Andhra Pradesh. Results: During study of sacred grove of Andhra Pradesh State, India various field trips were conducted and were GIS Photographic from various natural populations during the period 2018-2026. Plant Species Bhavani Island identifications activities data and plants specimens collected flowering or fruiting seasons. Specimens critically observed and identified. In the present study, a total of 54 Invasive Alien species were founded from Bhavani Island, Vijayawada, NTR District, Andhra Pradesh. These 378 wild and naturalized species belong to 48 genera and 21 families. Of the 54 Invasive alien species, 7 trees, 9 shrubs; 37 herbs; 1 Climber. Conclusion: Bhavani Island represents an ecologically important riverine ecosystem within the Krishna River basin. Invasive alien plant species, particularly Prosopis juliflora, Parthenium hysterophorus, Eichhornia crassipes, Ipomoea carnea, Lantana camara, and Hyptis suaveolens, pose significant threats to its biodiversity and ecological integrity. Regular monitoring, early detection, integrated management, and restoration of native vegetation are essential for conserving the Island's natural resources and sustaining its ecological and recreational values.