Examining Patterns and Processes of the Invasion of Frangula alnus With An Integrated Model Framework
6:30pm Tuesday, November 7th, 2017
Presented by Dr. Matthew Aiello-Lammens, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies and Science, Pace University
Abstract: The establishment and spread of non-native invasive species harms native ecosystems, human health, and economic activity. Understanding factors leading to successful species invasions helps resource managers in their task of preventing future invasions. Integrating several ecological models, I investigated the processes contributing to the spatial spread of the invasive plant Frangula alnus. I collected historic occurrence records to establish the pattern of spatial spread throughout North America during the 20th century. I carried out a multi-year monitoring study to better understand the species growth, survival, and reproduction characteristics, and used this information to parameterize a set of integrated models. I found that moderate fecundity, high survival, and extensive long-distance dispersal values replicated the observed pattern. Strong interaction effects between fecundity and long-distance dispersal indicate that a successful invasion required both of these processes. Lastly, long-distance dispersal was most likely facilitated by human transport, demonstrating the important role we often play in species invasions. These results provide an indication of processes that likely contribute to plant invasions more broadly, which can be used to inform invasive species management and prevention.
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