A recent study led by the University of Oviedo has identified 175 invasive plant species in the Iberian Northwest, an area that includes Galicia, Asturias, northern Castilla y León, the Basque Country, and northern Portugal. This research highlights the urgent threat these species pose to biodiversity, ecosystem functionality, the economy, and human health.
The findings, published in the journal Neobiota, aim to develop monitoring and conservation strategies based on the biological knowledge of these species. The study was conducted by a team led by Dr. Adrián Lázaro Lobo in collaboration with the Atlantic Botanical Garden of Gijón and experts in invasive species from various regions.
Among the identified species, 37 have been noted for their severe environmental and socio-economic impacts, including Acacia dealbata, Carpobrotus spp., and Cortaderia selloana. The researchers recommend initiating or continuing management plans focused on population control and the restoration of natural habitats.
Dr. Lázaro emphasizes that the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula serves as a natural laboratory for studying invasive plants due to its favorable environmental conditions and a long history of maritime connection with America and other regions. This research is crucial as the biodiversity of Asturias and surrounding areas faces increasing threats from introduced species.
Furthermore, an international team led by Lázaro has gathered global data on Cortaderia selloana, examining its introduction history, ecological impact, and reproductive strategies across four continents where it has spread since its origin in South America's temperate and subtropical regions.