The silent invasion: Nonnative trees threaten American forests
CompassLive recently covered Threat Center research on a quiet yet profound ecological shift taking place in U.S. Forests. Nonnative invasive tree species are gaining a foothold in forest ecosystems, competing with native trees for resources, sunlight, and space. A recent study conducted by Threat Center researchers Kevin Potter, Kurt Riitters, and Qinfeng Guo reveals the extent and potential consequences of this invasion.
“Our strategy was to identify the nonnative tree species that are successfully reproducing across wide areas in the woods. That’s because those species are more likely to degrade the ecosystem services of our native forests,” Potter explained.
Read recent coverage of this research in CompassLive.
Read the Research Highlight.
Read the scientific publication.
