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Department of biology and ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
Department of biology and ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
Department of biology and ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
Invasive plant species pose a significant global biodiversity challenge due to their rapid spread and competition with native species, necessitating effective conservation strategies to mitigate their impact. A floristic survey in the "Vlasina" protected area (An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Serbia) identified six highly invasive plant species in the autumn of 2023: Robinia pseudoacacia L., Reynoutria japonica Houtt., Erigeron annuus (L.) Pers., Erigeron canadensis L., Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl., and Bidens frondosa L. The purpose of this study was to assess their population dynamics, habitat types, and ecological impacts, with an emphasis on the implications for monitoring and management. The results show that invasive plants thrive in seminatural and ruderal habitats: R. pseudoacacia and R. japonica have been identified as the dominant invasive species along roadsides and in residential areas, while E. annuus and E. canadensis, as well as L. polyphyllus and B. frondosa, were identified in harsh conditions and on moist urban surfaces. These findings suggest that invasive plants thrive in a wide range of habitat conditions within the "Vlasina" and may alter biodiversity and ecosystem structure. Continued research is needed to develop effective control measures for sustainable solutions, including biomass production from invasive plants and phytoremediation.
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