Microbial communities of fynbos soils have not received as much attention as its aboveground components. This is especially true regarding the impacts of invasive plants on these communities. However, this has recently been explored in a study by C·I·B members.
Bamboos have caused widespread damaging invasions in many regions of the world. In South Africa, despite a long-history of introduction, little is known on the bamboo species currently present and their invasion history.
The consumption of alien fruits by birds and dispersal of ingested seeds increase the invasion risk of two cacti species in arid areas of South Africa.
Understanding and managing biological invasions requires a whole range of different skills, but often scientists and managers can feel that they are working in isolation. This is where communities of practice have been found to be useful in closing the gap between invasive species researchers and practitioners.
