❌ Invasive

African payal

Salvinia molesta · Salviniaceae

Also known as: Kariba weed

Explosive mats choke backwaters and paddy of Kuttanad, Kerala, and other wetlands

🌍 Origin: South-eastern Brazil (not native to India)

Why African payal is a problem

Explosive mats choke backwaters and paddy of Kuttanad, Kerala, and other wetlands

What to plant instead

Management species (classical biocontrol with Cyrtobagous salviniae)

Frequently asked questions

Is African payal invasive in India?

Yes. African payal (Salvinia molesta) is considered invasive in India. Explosive mats choke backwaters and paddy of Kuttanad, Kerala, and other wetlands

Why is African payal a problem?

Explosive mats choke backwaters and paddy of Kuttanad, Kerala, and other wetlands

Other invasive plants to avoid

🚫 Lantana 🚫 Vilayati babul 🚫 Congress grass 🚫 Mile-a-minute

Sources: R5, R6. See full references.

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