Large scale modification of the natural environment has occurred in the Durban Metropolitan Area as a result of human settlement. Most open areas that have been disturbed contain a high proportion of alien (non indigenous) invasive (rapidly reproducing and dispersing) vegetation. These species have no natural enemies and reproduce very rapidly.They also threaten natural biodiversity in other, more pristine, areas by out competing the indigenous vegetation for space, sun, water and nutrients in the soil.

Much of the remaining open space in the Durban Metropolitan Area is severely threatened by alien invasion. In certain areas invasion is controlled through active management which includes mechanical, chemical and biological means and combinations thereof. For most species absolute eradication is impossible, but biological control holds the key to cost effective "containing" of invaders.

Alien invader species are not confined to the Plant Kingdom, but include all sorts of animals, birds being the most conspicuous. Indian Mynas, Feral Pigeons and House Sparrows are well established species while Indian House Crows are fast gaining ground.

Some of the most common invasive plant species, particularly in the coastal areas of Durban, are:

• Lantana camara (lantana)
• Chromolaena odorata ( triffid weed)
• Melia azedarach (syringa)
• Leucaena leucocephala (giant wattle)
• Tithonia diversifolia (Mexican sunflower)
• Ricinus communis (castor oil bush)
• Senna didymobotrya (peanut cassia)
• Sesbania punicea (Brazilian glory bean)
• Psidium guajava (guava)
• Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Balloon vine)
• Solanum mauritanum (bugweed)
• Litsea glutinosa (Indian laurel)
• Eichornia crassipes (Water hyacinth)
• Salvinia molesta (Kariba weed)
• Pistia stratiotes (Water lettuce)

For information on how best to control these species in Durban please contact:
Parks Department (031) 312 2773