Like the rest of us, non-native, invasive plants want the best for themselves and their offspring, but this is not great news for the established native species. Newly published research (Ecology 86(9):2298-2309), led by FORT ecologist Tom Stohlgren, found that, with a high degree of predictability, non-native plants species established themselves more successfully in habitats (counties) rich in native plant species. Both native and non-native plants preferred low-stress (warm, sunny, and wet) environments. Researchers representing the USGS, USDA Forest Service, Colorado State University, and the Biota of North America Program in North Carolina further discovered that hot spots of native plant and bird diversity were particularly vulnerable to invasions. These findings can be used to more effectively establish early detection and rapid-response programs at local, state, and national scales.
For more information contact: Tom Stohlgren
U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.fort.usgs.gov/News/news_story.asp
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