Assessing the potential for biological invasion - the case of Ammophila arenaria in South Africa

Hertling, Ursula M; Lubke, Roy

Title: Assessing the potential for biological invasion - the case of Ammophila arenaria in South Africa
Creator: Hertling, Ursula M
Creator: Lubke, Roy
Date Issued: 2000
Date: 2000
Type: Article
Identifier: vital:6518
Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005947
Description: Many plants, especially woody species, introduced into South Africa for ornamental or commercial purposes, have become invasive in a number of habitats. Because of the risk of an invasion of coastal dunes by yet another species, the European dune grass Ammophila arenaria, used as a dune stabilizer, is assessed using lists of attributes of invasive species and invasible ecosystems. It is impossible to predict plant invasions, but both invasive species as well as invaded ecosystems are often characterized by certain attributes which facilitate invasions. Many of the species attributes connected with invasion appear to apply to A. arenaria. Above all, the grass is characterized by ecological tolerance and vigorous rhizomatous reproduction. An important site attribute connected with invasion is an evolutionary history with isolation patterns, which applies to the South African Cape coast. We conclude also on the basis of the overseas experience, that the potential for A. arenaria to become invasive needs urgent investigation in the South African context.
Format: 8 pages
Format: pdf
Language: English
Relation: Hertling, U.M. and Lubke, R.A. (2000) Assessing the potential for biological invasion--the case of Ammophila arenaria in South Africa. South African Journal of Science, 96 (9/10). pp. 520-527.

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Lubke, Roy (Assoc Prof Emeritus)

RU Department of Botany

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