Ecological Disruption in Assam: A Review of Key Invasive Plants and their Impacts on Biodiversity, Ecosystem, Socio-economy and Livelihood

The biodiversity and ecological balance of Assam, an area of rich biodiversity and high endemism are being threatened by invasive plant species. This review presents an extensive documentation of the 32 major invasive species in the Assam including Chromolaena odorata, Ipomoea carnea, Mikania micrantha and Parthenium hysterophorus which may cause forest biome degradation, decreased agricultural output, changed the assemblages of native species and threatened human sustenance. These invasive species disrupt ecological succession, deplete soil fertility, and disrupt faunal habitats – notably those of the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros while also imperiling rural economies reliant on agriculture and fisheries. The review paper also highlights the major economic losses, infrastructure damage and public health hazards linked to invaders such as Parthenium hysterophorus, etc. this study provides a comprehensive synthesis to guide future research and policies aimed at mitigating invasive alien plants impacts in Assam By combining scattered evidence and emphasizing integrated management strategies—biological control, habitat restoration and policy interventions are crucial in order to reduce the impact and spread of invasive alien plants in Assam.