Invasive Plant Species and Their Consequences

Document Type : Scientific Views

Authors

1 Head of Biodiversity Group- National Center For Genetic Resources

2 Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran

3 Faculty member of Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO)

10.22092/irn.2025.367367.1611

Abstract

The emergence of invasive plants in ecosystems poses a serious threat to biodiversity. Today, one of the world's main concerns is the decline of native plant and animal species due to the appearance of non-native invasive plants. These plants create numerous challenges by affecting natural resources, ecology, and the economy. Modern agriculture, the removal of biogeographical boundaries, transportation, tourism, and increased global trade have led to the spread of invasive plants and increased cross-border migration of non-native plant species. Invasive plant species have widespread impacts, including: reduction of plant diversity and soil health, alteration of climatic variables, effects on human and animal health, disruption of tree species reproduction, changes in soil physical, chemical, and biological properties, alteration of native plant community composition and structure, impact on microbial communities, disruption of the water cycle, effects on air quality, interference with pollination of native plants and crops. Therefore, to manage non-native invasive species, policies must be institutionalized in the country to prevent the reduction of biodiversity and ecosystem degradation. Assessing changes in the distribution and relative abundance of invasive species over time is an important step in managing this problem. These measures can help preserve human health and the environment.

Keywords


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