Towards an integrated research framework and policy agenda on biological invasions in the developing world: A case-study of India

BackgroundScientific literature on biological invasions in the developing world is currently scarce. India, a fast-globalizing country, faces a high risk of biological invasions. However, research and policy efforts on biological invasions in India are presently inadequate.ObjectivesTo propose an integrated research framework and policy agenda on biological invasions for India.MethodsThe framework and agenda, drawn from research insights gained from plant invasion studies in the Kashmir Himalaya (India), adopts a stage-based model for characterization of invasive alien biota in India.ResultsThe research framework explicates crucial information on the origin, purpose and pathway of introduction, residence time, species invasiveness, invasiveness elsewhere, habitat invasibility, latitudinal and altitudinal ranges and ecological and economic impacts of invasive species. The policy agenda highlights an urgent need for regulation of introduction pathways, prioritization of the worst invasive species, shifting from species- to biota-centric approaches, looking beyond political borders, forging interdisciplinary collaboration, launching a national network, and generating public awareness.ConclusionsAdoption of such an integrated framework and agenda in India, and in other developing countries, can significantly fill the geographical knowledge gaps in invasion biology research—which is crucial in winning the global battle against harmful biological invasions.

Research highlights
► Research and policy efforts on biological invasions in India are inadequate.
► We propose a research framework and policy agenda on biological invasions in India.
► A stage-based model for inventory of invasive alien biota is suggested.
► An action plan for systematic management of biological invasions is outlined.
► Adoption of the framework and agenda in India can prevent harmful invasions.