Long before the sycamore maple had a scientific name, it began its insidious invasion of Great Britain with a deceptive charm. This stealthy weed, like many others, initially appears harmless before revealing its destructive nature. According to weed ecologist Mohsen Mesgaran from the University of California, Davis, this lag between allure and menace is a common phenomenon among plant species. Mesgaran’s study, which examined over 3,500 plant species, highlights how some plants bide their time before unleashing rapid growth and ecological havoc.
By analyzing herbarium records from nine regions worldwide, Mesgaran and his team discovered that certain invasive plants can remain dormant for over a century before flourishing. Initially perceived as benign newcomers, these plants eventually outcompete native species and disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems. The researchers suggest that these hitchhiking plants may initially survive in a new climate niche, but their true impact is often underestimated by humans.
As Mesgaran explains, some plants simply need time to establish themselves before becoming invasive threats. This study sheds light on the deceptive nature of invasive species and the importance of early detection and prevention measures.
2024-04-23 10:30:00
Original from www.sciencenews.org
