Articles tagged with Invasive Plants
Invasive species like ship rats and non-native birds can become essential to ecosystems when native pollinators disappear. Researchers found that these 'alien' species perform similar functions as extinct native pollinators in New Zealand's North Island.
A US Department of Agriculture scientist identified a rare grass-like sedge as blue sedge, native to Asia and Australia, found growing near the gravesites of a royal Gypsy family in Mississippi. The plant's restricted distribution and invasive traits suggest it could cause problems in US lawn and turf systems.
The study found that archaeophytes, introduced since Neolithic agriculture, are positively affected by arable land availability at low altitudinal ranges. Invasive neophyte species harbor 67% of Prague's nature reserves, including many shrubs and trees with high invasion potential.
New study finds that popular ornamental woody plants sold as non-invasive may actually retain invasive potential. The offspring of these cultivars often 'breed true' and can be more fecund than their parents, making them potentially more invasive.
The study estimates $1.7 billion in local government expenditures and $830 million in lost residential property values each year from invasive tree-feeding insects like the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle. Strengthening regulations and enforcement are crucial to mitigate future costs.
China's existing protected areas are failing to conserve wild plants, which could be valuable sources of future crops and medicine. The country should develop accurate data on threats to its plant species and create well-enforced reserves in appropriate areas.
A team of researchers at UConn has developed a seedless variety of the invasive plant Euonymus alatus, known as 'burning bush', which retains its attractive foliage but eliminates its ability to spread. This breakthrough could help restore the plant's popularity in commercial markets and mitigate its environmental impact.
NeoBiota, a new open-access journal, addresses the challenges of biological invasions through rapid online publishing. The journal incorporates automated cross-linking with major biodiversity platforms to provide barrier-free access to information and data, supporting the study and management of invasive species.
Recent research investigates the effects of invasive velvetgrass on a native daisy, revealing direct competition as a key mechanism. The study found that removing invasive species can alter soil communities, leading to lingering negative impacts on native plants.
A study by Penn State researchers found that road graders can spread seeds of invasive plants, such as Japanese stilt grass, several orders of magnitude further than natural dispersal. The rapid spread of these plants can outcompete native vegetation and cause significant ecological damage.
The new field guide highlights 91 nonnative invasive plant species affecting forest lands in California, Oregon, and Washington. The guide provides detailed information for identification and has significant economic implications for landowners and local governments.
Researchers found that sea urchins have limited effect on controlling invasive seaweeds like Caulerpa racemosa and Lophocladia lallemandii in the Mediterranean. High sea urchin densities can limit their establishment, but they exert no control in highly invaded areas.
Researchers found that 22 non-native species in Chile pose a high risk to Argentina, with yellow glandweed being the most dangerous. The study highlights the need for cooperation between neighboring countries to counter invasive plant species and prevent severe damage to agriculture.
A group of ecologists has issued a call to reevaluate the impact of non-native species on ecosystems, challenging traditional assumptions about their effects. Research highlights that some native species also have negative consequences, such as decimating pine forests.
A global analysis of invasive plant impacts found that 135 species cause a 40% reduction in native plant abundance and a 50% decrease in species diversity. This study highlights the context-dependent nature of invasions, with impacts varying by species traits, ecosystem type, and duration.
A meta-analysis found that invasive plant species cause large losses in biodiversity at small scales but have a negligible impact at broader scales. This contradicts the common view of invasive plants as major threats to native biodiversity. The study suggests that the effect of invasive plants on native species extinctions decreases w...
Research reveals invasive plant species do not become more abundant in new habitats than their native ranges, challenging long-held assumptions. Only a small percentage of introduced plants cause problems and spread widely.
A team of scientists found that invasive fruiting plants, such as honeysuckle, can form mutually beneficial relationships with native birds and other species. In the Happy Valley region of Pennsylvania, honeysuckle increased the abundance of fruit-eating birds and facilitated seed dispersal for nearby native plants.
Invasive European beachgrass provides cover for deer mice to feed on Tidestrom's lupine fruits without being detected by birds. A mathematical model of lupine populations predicts that all three populations will go extinct, but if mice eat fewer seeds, the largest population will remain stable.
A recent study on Cycas micronecia, a critically endangered ancient plant species, reveals moderate genetic variation within local populations and dynamic gene flow between regions. The research provides valuable insights into the conservation of this species, which is threatened by invasive pests and habitat loss.
Researchers found that cheatgrass has a competitive edge over soybeans due to its better-suited biochemistry under elevated carbon dioxide concentrations. The study highlights the potential risks of rising CO2 levels for agriculture, as some plants may be harmed by increased atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Researchers gathered daily birding activity reports from over 1,000 ornithologists to study the spread of non-native plants. The study found that specific birds are contributing to the dispersal of certain invasive plant species through their feeding habits.
This study uses accelerometry to measure the energy expenditure of cane toads, revealing a higher metabolic rate than previously thought. The research provides valuable data for predictive models to optimize control efficiency in invasive species management.
The study found that Galenia pubescens outcompetes native plants, altering ecosystem function and causing a decline in species diversity. Effective control measures are necessary to prevent further invasion and mitigate its impacts on Mediterranean-climate coastal ecosystems.
A University of Montreal student is tracking the decline of frog species in Quebec, finding a slight decrease in frogs near Phragmites australis growth, but intact northern leopard frog populations. Experimental research aims to understand pH levels, oxygen, and temperature effects on amphibians in controlled water basins.
The researchers suggest establishing specific risk zones in urban areas to focus resources on preventing exotic pest invasions. Plant pests like the red imported fire ant cost the US $37.1 billion annually, with coastal states at greatest risk for invasion.
Researchers have developed new plant varieties to restore vegetation communities on the western rangelands, helping them survive extreme weather conditions. The newly created Hycrest II and Vavilov II cultivars offer improved establishment and resilience against invasive species.
Research analyzed plant data from 1850s to 2010s, showing that non-native species thrive during climate change due to flexible flowering times. Invasive plants dominate, threatening biodiversity and ecosystem function.
A recent study found that mountain plant communities are susceptible to invasion by exotic species, contrary to previous beliefs. The research highlights the ease of propagule movement, low biological resistance, and increased transport between high-altitude areas as key factors contributing to these invasions.
Researchers discovered that invasive Phragmites produces more gallotannin, a precursor to toxic gallic acid, than its native cousin. This triggers the native plant's natural defense mechanism, releasing tannase that cleaves gallotannin into toxic gallic acid, ultimately harming the native plant.
A recent study by University of California, Davis, researchers used 'bugs in boxes' to investigate the variability of invasive species' spread. The results suggest that predicting the course of an invasion may be more challenging than previously thought.
A new study predicts that tamarisk's range will expand in the Northwest US by century's end due to climate change. The invasive plant can displace native species and increase wildfire risk, with suitable habitat covering 20% of the region east of the Cascade Mountains.
A new study finds that garlic mustard's fungus-killing toxin levels decrease over time, undermining its invasive advantage. This decline enables native plants to return and outcompete the invasive species.
Researchers found that Phragmites delivers a one-two chemical knock-out punch to its victims, with the poison becoming even more toxic in UV-B radiation. The study highlights the persistence of phytotoxins and their enhanced effects against native species.
A new study forecasts when climate factors will match at geographically distant airline departure and destination points, helping to detect and intercept invasive species. The findings provide a framework for monitoring airline flights and planning more efficiently.
A Princeton study finds that climate change may reduce the competitiveness of some invasive plants, creating restoration opportunities in areas dominated by 'intractable' weeds. The study mapped invasion risk across millions of acres in the US West.
An international team mapped alien plant invasions across Europe, finding highest risks in agricultural and urban ecosystems. The study revealed a consistent pattern of invasion levels across European regions, with low levels in natural grasslands and Mediterranean vegetation.
Invasive plant species are thriving in altered Great Plains ecosystems, outcompeting native plants. Researchers will use biocontrols and other methods to control key invaders like Dalmation toadflax, cheatgrass, and Canada thistle.
A statewide survey of snail and slug invasions in Hawai'i has found 29 alien species, including five previously unreported, with most introduced to Oahu before spreading to other islands. The study highlights the need for greater awareness among nurseries and quarantine officials to prevent further environmental impacts.
Researchers have discovered that plants can send out an S.O.S. to their roots when attacked by pathogens, triggering a response from beneficial bacteria that brings relief. The study sheds light on the remarkable signaling system in plants, which rivals human and animal nervous systems.
Scientists in Montana found that an introduced fly may worsen the effects of a widely invasive plant. The fly's larvae induce the plant to grow tissue around them, reducing its energy for seed production. Deer mice prey on the larvae, further boosting mouse population size and negatively impacting native plants.
Inwood Hill Park faces challenges preserving native species due to human impact and invasive species proliferation. A collaborative research approach can help understand plant losses and address causes, ensuring the survival of future plantings.
Research finds that dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) can reduce the need for hand-weeding by suppressing weeds in container-grown ornamentals. When applied to the soil surface, DDGS was found to be effective in controlling common chickweed and annual bluegrass without causing injury to plants.
Woody and aquatic plants pose significant threats to China's ecosystems, with the country at risk of catching up with the US in terms of invasive species. China has fewer invasive woody plants than the US, but the introduction of new species via international trade is expected to increase rapidly.
Over 400 alien species are now considered invasive in China, with many causing significant harm to the environment. The rapid growth of China's industrial infrastructure is making it easier for organisms to spread and establish themselves throughout the country.
A new study published in Restoration Ecology reveals that damaged environments can be restored within a matter of years at virtually no cost. Spontaneous revegetation allows plants from surrounding areas to move in and take root, naturally restoring the site.
Invasive tree species are changing the basic ecological structure of Hawaiian rainforests, making them less hospitable to native plant and animal species. The impact is evident in denser canopies, altered soil fertility, and suppressed understory plants.
A new computer model, developed by University of Illinois ecologist Adam Davis, aims to predict the most effective biological control agent for reducing garlic mustard populations in temperate forests. The model uses simulation dynamics and testing protocols to identify a tiny weevil as a promising candidate.
The Argentine ant's invasive success is attributed to its adaptability and ability to outcompete native ants. As it displaces native species, the ants begin foraging lower on the food chain, exploiting honeydew excretions of aphids and scale insects.
A new baseline of invasive plants has been established in Puerto Villamil, Isabela Island, Galapagos, with 261 introduced species recorded, 39 growing wild. The study highlights the impact of invasive plants on native flora and fauna, with five species identified as potentially serious weeds that should be eradicated.
Scientists have identified the toxin produced by Phragmites australis as 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, which causes structural protein disintegration in neighboring plant roots, leading to their death. The exotic strain releases higher concentrations of the toxin than native strains, contributing to its invasive success.
Researchers at Stanford University have found that invasive plant species can flourish in resource-poor environments by adopting efficient ways to use available resources. This discovery sheds new light on how invaders achieve success and may change the way scientists think about invasive species and how to curb them.
A new study reveals that a plant pathogen played a key role in allowing non-native grasses to invade California, dramatically changing the state's vast grassland ecosystem. The research suggests that diseases can facilitate the invasion of exotic species, which threatens biodiversity and ecological function.
A UVM study reveals that reed canarygrass's invasive power comes from its history of multiple introductions and interbreeding with European strains, allowing it to adapt quickly to new conditions. This phenomenon has significant implications for the potential invasiveness of other horticultural and agricultural plants.
Research found an invasive whitefly has a mutualistic relationship with plant viruses, increasing its population on virus-infected plants. This relationship allows the whitefly to displace native biotypes and cause disease pandemics.
Researchers found that controlling sexual compatibility in self-incompatible plants like the California wild radish can help minimize their reproductive success and prevent establishment. Larger population sizes and genetic diversity also boosted reproduction, highlighting potential strategies to combat invasive plant spread.
Scientists assess native plant diversity to evaluate invasion vulnerability and protect native plants, innovative field methods presented in a new book by USGS ecologist Tom Stohlgren. The book provides revised sampling approaches for measuring plant diversity at multiple scales, helping natural resource managers make informed decisions
A new theory suggests that phenotypic plasticity acts as a barrier to invasion unless invaders are given a huge competitive advantage. Invasions often alter ecological relationships, requiring species to modify traits to survive.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has released a free educational pamphlet warning of the dangers of dumping seafood into the wild. Invasive species can travel through ship ballast water, aquaculture facilities, and consumer releases, causing economic and environmental damage.
Researchers found that garlic mustard targets arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, harming native plants and disrupting their growth. The invasive plant's phytochemical poisons disrupt native plants' mycorrhizal associations, stunting their growth.