Formation of invasive populations of Impatiens L. in the Moscow region (Central Russia)

Abstract

The facts of the appearance and distribution of invasive species Impatiens glandulifera Royle and I. parviflora DC were studied. (Balsaminaceae) in the Moscow region (Central Russia). Field route methods, analysis of herbarium collections (MHA, MW) for the period 1880-2021 and numerous observations of invasive Impatiens L. species available in Open Access (online) were used. Maps were compiled showing the formation of modern invasive populations of Impatiens in the study region. The historical features of the dynamics of the development of the invasive process in each species are noted. It was revealed that the first finds of I. parviflora in the Moscow region were made several decades earlier than I. glandulifera. In the invasive process, I. parviflora has a lag-phase period lasting more than 70 years; in I. glandulifera, this period is about 50 years. The exponential phase falls on 1960-1970, when the rate of appearance of invasive populations increases significantly and active naturalization of both species begins. It should be noted that I. parviflora prevails over I. glandulifera in terms of the rate of development of biocenoses in the region, which is characterized by a narrower ecological optimum. Currently, I. parviflora covers the entire territory of the Moscow region, with the exception of one remote area. Invasive populations of this species are concentrated in coniferous-broad-leaved and small-leaved forests, on wastelands and glades, including areas with dry soil. The invasive range of I. glandulifera in 2021 is almost as extensive, but unlike the previous species, it is characterized by ecological specificity, since the species prefers humid habitats, grows along the banks of reservoirs, rivers and streams, and along damp ditches.