Impact of Alien Invasive Species (Lantana camara L.) on Natural Regeneration and Soil Properties in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, India

Lantana camara L. is an alien invasive species widespread in India and is considered as a serious threat to native plant biodiversity and regeneration. The present study was carried out to assess the effect of lantana invasion on natural regeneration and soil properties in two different vegetation types of Nagarahole Tiger Reserve. Four levels of lantana infestation that were highly infested, moderately infested, lantana uprooted areas and areas without lantana infestation were considered for the present study. Five sub-quadrants were laid in the main quadrate to assess the regenerates. Four soil samples were randomly collected at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depths and were analysed for different physicochemical properties. Highest density of regenerates was observed in uprooted areas followed by moderately infested areas in dry deciduous forests and in moist deciduous forest types, the highest density of regenerates was observed in non-infested areas followed by uprooted areas. Maximum soil moisture, bulk density, pH and electric conductivity were observed in highly infested areas but the organic carbon percentage and organic matter was highest in non-infested areas. The higher Lantana infestation is affected by natural regeneration and Lantana uprooting is helping to improve the regeneration status.