Invasive Watch

Invasive Watch is a flagship monitoring programme of the Invasion Biology Division of ELATHAND, dedicated to the early detection, documentation and reporting of newly emerging invasive alien species across natural and human-modified landscapes.

The programme strengthens invasive species surveillance through a collaborative network of researchers, students, citizen scientists, local communities and nature enthusiasts. Identifying new introductions and tracking their spread early supports timely scientific assessment and informed management before species become widespread.

To ensure accurate documentation and open access to biodiversity information, Invasive Watch integrates digital and community-based monitoring platforms. NeophyteID is ELATHAND’s AI-powered invasive plant identification and reporting platform. iNaturalist supports geo-referenced biodiversity observations and expert species verification. Community-based reporting brings together observations from local communities, field volunteers, educational institutions and partner organisations. Scientific field surveys provide targeted monitoring by ELATHAND researchers and collaborators.

All verified observations are compiled into a growing database to monitor invasion trends, identify emerging threats, generate distribution maps and support ecological research, policy and conservation planning.

Through science, technology and community participation, Invasive Watch serves as an early warning system for biological invasions, contributing to the conservation of native biodiversity and the long-term ecological resilience of tropical ecosystems.