Flora unchecked: investigating the consequences of ornamental plant invasions

Authors: TAPIA, CARLOS - Florida International University; BHAT, MAHADEV - Florida International University; Nageswara Rao, Madhugiri; JAYACHANDRAN, KRISH - Florida International University; BHASKAR, MARUTHI - Florida International University

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/18/2024
Publication Date: 5/6/2024
Citation: Tapia, C., Bhat, M., Nageswara Rao, M., Jayachandran, K., Bhaskar, M. 2024. Flora unchecked: investigating the consequences of ornamental plant invasions. Meeting Abstract, Invasion Science Research Symposium, May 6-8, 2024.

Interpretive Summary: Abstract Only

Technical Abstract: Invasive species and their adaptability present major challenges to agricultural operations, environment, and economics. Specifically, invasive plants have the ability to out-compete various types of native vegetation, especially with plants cultivated in the horticultural industry. Plant nursing is a diverse and multi-billion dollar industry, with trade networks spanning across the world, with the Netherlands, the United States, and Eastern Africa serving as major nodes of plant transport. Since many ornamental plants originate in exotic environments, combined with the potential for escaping production and distribution nurseries, the establishment of growing operations may further exacerbate any subsequent economic damage, and hinder progress towards the management. Furthermore, some invasive species such as the Castor Plant, Rosary Pea, and the Old-World climbing fern can produce medically-significant toxins, and allelopathic compounds that may inhibit the growth of native plants. Such an economic, ecological, and public health challenge warrants a thorough investigation into this relatively under-studied aspect of species invasion.. In examining the subject plant spread and its invasion mechanisms, we will be using Agent-Based Models to serve as proxies for the real-world invasive growth mechanics. Furthermore, these modeled scenarios will represent how species that are simultaneously toxic, ornamental, and invasive, can escape from their nurseries and perpetuate into the agroecosystems; as well as how various management scenarios could impact the mechanisms of its escape and spread. Findings from this study will have implications in further informing and contributing to the poignant discourse on the role of the ornamental plant trade, as well as best practices to ensure a minimal impact on farmers, landowners, and the pristine environment.