Abstract
Lantana camara L. is one of the worst invasive alien species that are categorized worldwide. The objective of this review paper was to review the dispersal and threats posed by Lantana camara L. in Ethiopia and based on review results, to suggest management strategies that can bring solutions to the threats posed by the weed. Both biological characteristics of Lantana camara L. and its dispersal agents have contributed to the success of its dispersal. Even though Lantana camara L. is dispersed in other places within Ethiopia, Debrezeit, Dire Dawa, Harar and Somali are the hotspot areas for the weed. Biodiversity and potential agricultural loss, human and animal health problems and infestation in national parks are the identified threats that Lantana camara L. posed within the country. Utilization of Lantana camara L. for various purposes, prevention of its further dispersal into non-infected areas, use of fire, mechanical and biological control and awareness creation are the suggested management strategies that can bring solutions to the threats posed by the weed within the country.
Highlights
Invasion of invasive alien species is among the most important global-scale problems experienced by natural ecosystems
There are about 35 invasive alien species including Lantana camara L. that threaten the biodiversity of the country (McGinley, 2007; Tessema et al, 2009; Anagae et al, 2004)
If it is planned to save the national parks and biodiversity, reduce the potential impact on agriculture, awareness creation programs should be organized once a year throughout Ethiopia. Both biological characteristics of Lantana camara L. and its dispersal agents have contributed to the success of its dispersal
Summary
Invasion of invasive alien species is among the most important global-scale problems experienced by natural ecosystems. Invasive Alien Species are species which are introduced unintentionally or intentionally into a natural environment where they are not normally found, with serious negative consequences for their new environment. Such species are termed environmental weeds (Richardson et al, 2000) and may alter ecosystem structure and function (Minchinton et al, 2006; Grice, 2006). Lantana camara L. is a hardy evergreen perennial shrub up to 5 m tall, which is erect and Scandent, and native to tropical and subtropical America and the West Indies It is a species of flowering plant within the Verbenaceae jas.ccsenet.org. It is common as an ornamental plant in all parts of the Flora of Ethiopia and is naturalized in some open disturbed areas within an altitudinal range between 500 and 2500 meter above sea level
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
