Assessment of the perceived effects and management challenges of Mikania micrantha invasion in Chitwan National Park buffer zone community forest, Nepal

Mikania micrantha invasion significantly disrupts rural livelihoods and tourism revenues in Chitwan National Park's buffer zone, Nepal. The study reveals that the alien plant reduces access to essential forest products like fodder and fuel wood while altering wildlife habitats, forcing animals into core areas and diminishing tourism. A survey of 170 households confirmed these adverse impacts, highlighting the need for urgent intervention by authorities and public awareness campaigns to mitigate ecological and socio-economic consequences.

Khadka, A. (2017). Assessment of the perceived effects and management challenges of Mikania micrantha invasion in Chitwan National Park buffer zone community forest, Nepal. Heliyon, 3(4), e00289. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00289