Abstract
Non-native invasive species frequently appear in urban and non-urban ecosystems and may become a threat to biodiversity. Some of these newcomers are introduced accidentally, and others are introduced through a sequence of events caused by conscious human decisions. Involving the general public in biodiversity preservation activities could prevent the negative consequences of these actions. Accurate and reliable data collecting is the first step in invasive species management, and citizen science can be a useful tool to collect data and engage the public in science. We present a case study of biological recording of tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle) using a participatory citizen model. The first goal in this case study was to develop a cheap, widely accessible, and effective inventory method, and to test it by mapping tree of heaven in Croatia. A total of 90.61 km of roads and trails was mapped; 20 single plants and 19 multi-plant clusters (mapped as polygons) were detected. The total infested area was 2610 m2. The second goal was to educate citizens and raise awareness of this invasive species. The developed tool and suggested approach aided in improving invasive risk management in accordance with citizen science principles and can be applied to other species or areas.
Highlights
Scientists have devoted significant energy to determining the principles of alien species invasions [1]
The simplifications made by the introduction of polygons did not allow for detailed and precise data analysis, it did not hinder the aim of this case study, which was to gain some insight into the infestation rate in the examined area
We proposed that citizen science, which can operate over large scales and has many positive effects on the general public, can be used to create a new tool in invasive species management
Summary
Scientists have devoted significant energy to determining the principles of alien species invasions [1]. Alien species invasion is recognised as one of the most severe and demanding global environmental threats [2]. Human activities have caused ecological conditions in the urban flora that render them suitable for alien species settlement [4]. Even if a large share of invasive species was transported unintentionally, such as via ship ballast waters, systems of canals and dams, or cargo holds, many other cases have been caused by a sequence of events based on conscious human decisions. Many recently introduced invasive species were originally introduced as ornamental or erosion control plants—these include tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle) [5] and beach vitex (Vitex rotundifolia L. f.) [6]. Agardh [8] into the Mediterranean region, and lionfish (Pterois spp.) [9] and python (Python spp.) in Florida [10]
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