Does Invasive Plant Management Aid the Restoration of Natural Ecosystems?

Authors:
Reid, A.M., L. Morin, P.O. Downey, K. French and J.G. Virtue

Publication Date:
2009

Abstract/Summary:
Invasive alien plants of natural ecosystems, commonly referred to as weeds, can reduce the abundance and diversity of native flora and fauna, and alter ecosystem processes. Using Australia’s 20 ‘Weeds of National Significance’ (WoNS), we investigated how natural ecosystems responded following their management. Our results emphasise the need to select sites for weed management that are less degraded and thus have a higher likelihood of natural recovery and/or to incorporate activities that facilitate recovery of native plant communities in conjunction with weed removal.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Biological Conservation

Link:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320709002316