Abstract
SummaryThis paper presents an overview of introduced alien plant species inhabiting natural thermal waters of Serbia. We recorded the presence of six naturalised aquatic plant species, also recognised as weeds in several regions of the world. This was the first time that Heteranthera zosterifolia (Pontederiaceae), Lemna minuta (Araceae) and Rotala rotundifolia (Lythraceae) were recorded in the aquatic ecosystems of Serbia. In addition, the presence of H. zosterifolia and R. rotundifolia was previously unknown in other countries of Southeastern Europe. The study includes detailed habitat descriptions and impact assessments for all introduced aquatic species in thermal waters in Serbia. All species were prioritised for pest risk analysis using a modified version of the EPPO prioritisation process within the framework of the EU regulation for invasive species. As a result, four alien species may be considered invasive (three at EU and one at national level), while two other species did not show strong invasiveness, but still need to be monitored. In addition, risk management measures were proposed for all invasive species from this study, and they may provide implications for the theory and practical management of weeds.
Published Version
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