Abstract
Invasive alien species (IAS) is a global problem that largely relates to human activities and human settlements. To prevent the further spread of IAS, we first need to know their pattern of distribution, to determine which constitutes the greatest threat, and understand which habitats and migration pathways they prefer. Our research aimed to identify the main vectors and distribution pattern of IAS of plants in the city environment. We checked the relations between species distribution and such environmental factors as urban soil type and habitat type. We applied data on IAS occurrence (collected in the period 1973–2015) in 515 permanent plots with dimensions of 0.5 × 0.5 km and analyzed by direct ordination methods. In total, we recorded 66 IAS. We found a 27% variance in the IAS distribution pattern, which can be explained by statistically significant soil and habitat types. The most important for species distribution were: river and alluvial soils, forests and related rusty soils, and places of intensive human activities, including areas of urbisols and industriosols. Our results provide details that can inform local efforts for the management and control of invasive species, and they provide evidence of the different associations between natural patterns and human land use.
Highlights
Invasive species have been an important research topic for scientists from around the world for several decades [1,2]
For the purposes of this article, we adopt the definition according to Tokarska-Guzik et al [1], in line with that proposed by the International
We recorded 66 plant species recognized as Invasive alien species (IAS) in Poland [1], of which we selected 31 with full data available to analyze their distribution (Table S1)
Summary
Invasive species have been an important research topic for scientists from around the world for several decades [1,2]. Invasive alien species (IAS) means a non-native species that has established itself in ecosystems or habitats that are either natural, semi-natural, or man-made, e.g., some agroecosystems [6]. These species are a trigger of changes that threaten native biodiversity, economy, and/or human health [1,4]. Invasive species can affect the soil and its microorganisms, and native species of plants as well, often leading to their displacement [7] This may affect the biodiversity of the flora and the fauna of the affected area [8,9]. IAS can pose a threat to both natural ecosystems and crops, human health, and some branches of industry, such as tourism [10]
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