Invasive Common Reed (<i>Phragmites australis</i> (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.): A Serious Ecological Threat to Ladakh Tethys Himalayan Biodiversity in Changing Climate

Ladakh’s cropped and non-cropped areas suffer greatly from weedy invasion under subsistence agricultural system where weeding is not a priority but total crop + weed biomass together contribute to livestock feeding significantly. As agriculture along with rearing major activity of livelihood options, thereby contributing significantly Ladakh economy income generation for supporting resource poor farmers. Amongst various invasive species, the common reed (Phragmites australis) has become serious ecological threat agri-silvi-pastoral biodiversity accelerated its expansion in lands including many wetland salt-affected habitats cold arid region due intermediate plant growth habit C3 - C4 photosynthetic ecotypes. This character makes Phragmites climate-resilient which challenge changing climatic patterns. Simultaneously, it one best fodder substitute available harsh climate. paper deals unique characters potential threats agrobiodiversity Ladakh.