Ramtin Houshangi, secretary of the Ramsar Environmental House and author of the article Invasion of Alien Species: Silent Extinction and Bioterrorism, delivered a presentation at the Ramsar Civil Defense Symposium focusing on strategies to control invasive species in the province.
During the session, Houshangi, an Iranian Zoroastrian environmentalist, presented an educational PowerPoint outlining the characteristics of invasive species and the practical measures implemented in Ramsar to combat their spread. He stressed that these species, due to their rapid growth and aggressive nature, pose a significant threat to native vegetation and the Hyrcanian forests.
Houshangi highlighted the case of Arugia ivy, which spreads via its toxic, inedible fruits. By entwining around trees, the plant can suffocate, weaken, and ultimately kill them. He warned that if not properly managed, these plants not only harm the environment but also cause seasonal allergies and other health problems for local residents.
The event was attended by Kamil Shabaniyan, Political and Social Deputy of the Ramsar Governor’s Office. In his remarks, he identified the invasive Arugia plant as a silent threat to both the Hyrcanian forests and the health of local residents. Reflecting on the loss of native boxwood trees to invasive species, Shabaniyan warned that neglecting these threats could seriously disturb the region’s ecological balance. He emphasized that effective management requires coordinated efforts, public education, and active collaboration between authorities and the community.
Prior to discussing invasive plants, Shabaniyan highlighted the importance of passive defense strategies, stressing the need to continuously monitor and address threats while transforming them into opportunities through proactive planning.
Previously, Ramtin Houshangi had been acknowledged by the former Ramsar governor for his work on the book Why Recycling Matters and by Captain Mahdi Bairagi for Applications of Biotechnology in Aquaculture. Houshangi, an Iranian Zoroastrian, also serves as secretary of the Ramsar Environmental House and head of the Ramsar Fencing Committee.
