Gleditsia triacanthos L. (honeylocust, Leguminosae): first record as an invader of riparian woodland in Southern Spain

Abstract

Gleditsia triacanthos (Leguminosae) is a deciduous tree native to the Eastern USA. The first invasive record of G. triacanthos in the Iberian Peninsula is here reported. The invaded area (Guadiamar river, southern Spain) is under a Csa climate type, which is an infrequent and unexpected type for that species to behave as invasive. The analysis of trunk perimeters and of the spatial distribution showed a net recruitment and an invasive trend throughout the temporary stretch of the river.