PHYLOGEOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF THE INVASIVE ASIAN EARTHWORM (AMYNTHAS ALEXANDRI) IN THE CENTRAL KERALA OF THE WESTERN GHATS REGION.

One of the most significant environmental issues on a worldwide scale is the invasion of natural ecosystems by non-native species (exotics), which poses a threat to native biodiversity. The activity of invasive earthworms may have a very harmful effect. Although geographically widespread, the spread of alien earthworms like Amynthas alexandri in India has remained patchy at the regional and field levels. An exotic and highly invasive A. alexandri was collected and reported for the first time from the Thrissur District representing Central Kerala. The identification of specimens at any life-stage, including the identification of non-native species, has made DNA barcoding a promising technique for earthworm study. This method also allows for the quick determination of the degree of invasiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]