Assessment of Invasive Plant Species and Management Strategies in Abijata Shalla Lakes National Park, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted at Abijata Shalla Lakes National Park (ASLNP), Ethiopia in order to investigate Invasive Plant Species and Management Strategies and aimed to minimize and control invasive plant species for wildlife habitat Management. Data was collected both in local Afaan Oromoo and English languages. Structured interview by means of focus group discussions using a semi structured questionnaire regarding the typology, effects and controlling mechanisms of invasive species was used supplemented by professional ecologists, game rangers’ heads and surrounding local farmers’ who were questioned on invasive alien plants species affecting their agricultural lands. During field trips plants were initially identified by ecologists and respondents by means of their local names. Further identification was made with reference to field guide books and literatures. Five major invasive species: - Abutilon spp, Opuntia spp, Lantana camara, Parthenium hysterophorus and Prosopis julifora were identified in the study area during the investigation of this survey and review. The surrounding community’s concept and knowledge about these invasive were almost positive and they are deliberately dispersing the species. They use for fencing their farm land by planting on the series of land border, feed some of their fruits and used as shading during dry season which alarming their expansion. It is better to do cooperatively on how to minimize and control invasive species to enhance environmental productivity and sustainable biodiversity conservation management is extremely suggested.