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Plant Invasions

All articles tagged with #plant invasions

"Hidden Threat: Invasive 'Time Bomb' Plants Invade US Ecologies"
environment1 year ago

"Hidden Threat: Invasive 'Time Bomb' Plants Invade US Ecologies"

Invasive plants, such as ribwort and velvetleaf, are causing ecological havoc in the U.S. as they can remain dormant for decades before suddenly expanding. These plants outcompete native species, attract pollinators away from them, and threaten agricultural crops. The long dormancy period of invasive plants makes it difficult to predict and prevent their spread, highlighting the need for policies and risk assessments that consider this lag phase. Understanding the reasons for these delays, such as climate suitability, is crucial for managing pests and preventing widespread invasion and economic losses in the future.

"The Looming Ecological Threat of Invasive Plant Time Bombs"
ecology1 year ago

"The Looming Ecological Threat of Invasive Plant Time Bombs"

A new study led by the University of California, Davis reveals that invasive plants can remain dormant for decades or even centuries before rapidly expanding and causing ecological damage. The research, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, analyzed over 5,700 species of invasive plants in nine regions globally, finding that nearly one-third exhibited lag periods between introduction and rapid expansion, with the average time being 40 years. The study emphasizes the need to consider dormancy periods in managing pests and preventing widespread invasion and economic losses in the future.