Control de Gleditsia triacanthos en el Parque Nacional Esteros de Farrapos e Islas del Río Uruguay

Abstract

Invasive species are one of the most important threats to biodiversity conservation. In the National Park Esteros of Farrapos and Uruguay River Islands, the invasion of Gleditsia triacanthos is one of the main threats. We evaluated the feasibility of implementing a control program of G. triacanthos by drilling the stem and applying herbicide. We characterized the regeneration pattern of the woody component and analyzed the herbicide impact on the abundance and number of genus of woody seedlings. The herbicides used were Glifotec and Tordon. After two years of herbicide application the average mortality was 66% and 60% in Glifotec and Tordon, respectively. The regeneration of the woody component is threatened as G. triacanthos accounted for 92% of the individuals. Control did not affect the abundance and richness of seedlings of the woody component. The development of chemical control of G. tiracanthos in the National Park Esteros Farrapos is feasible but requires active restoration management.