Alien plant invasion

Abstract

The introduction of non-native plants and animals by humans has occurred over the centuries both by accident and as a deliberate policy. Due to of the absence of natural control mechanisms many of these species become invasive. This can be at such a rate that the often biologically diverse indigenous habitats and species become overwhelmed. Coastal sand dunes are naturally dynamic and hence offer a range of opportunities for colonisation. This chapter provides a review of the main species invading sand dunes and their impact on the functioning of the habitat and its native fauna and flora. The chapter includes some positive aspects of species invasion (including reasons for introduction), as well as a general review of the effects and efficacy of control. It deals with individual species interactions rather than the more general question of scrub invasion dealt with in Chap. 7.