Read more about the article The dual purpose of Guava invasion in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve
Guava (Psidium guajava L.) an invasive alien tree species that is widely distributed in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo Province of South Africa, where it has both benefits and costs. (Photo credit: Sheunesu Ruwanza)

The dual purpose of Guava invasion in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve

A new study by C∙I∙B Core Team member Sheunesu Ruwanza and co-author Gladman Thondhlana assessed the perceptions, knowledge, and uses of guava to rural communities in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, South Africa.

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Read more about the article Study examines local knowledge regarding ecosystem services and disservices from invasive alien plants in the Kalahari
A garden with prickly pear (important for fruit fodder and hedging, but a health hazard, a pepper tree (important for shade and medicinal purposes), and syringa (important for shade but a health threat and a “messy” tree). (Photo credit: Ross Shackleton)

Study examines local knowledge regarding ecosystem services and disservices from invasive alien plants in the Kalahari

Understanding the trade-offs of invasive alien species for people’s livelihoods and the environment is becoming more prominent to help guide management and to avoid conflicts. One way of framing these benefits and costs are as ecosystem services and disservices.

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Read more about the article Prioritising areas for invasive alien plant management in an urban setting
The figure shows overall priority areas for the management of invasive alien plants across the City of Cape Town, South Africa.

Prioritising areas for invasive alien plant management in an urban setting

Factors related to human safety and security are most important when prioritising areas for invasive alien plant (IAP) management across the Cape Town metro.

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Read more about the article Natural vegetation increases macadamia pest control by bats
Sina Weier looking at a small Vespertilionidae, also commonly known as “evening bats” or “vesper bats”, on an Angola expedition. (Photo credit: Kostadin Luchansky)

Natural vegetation increases macadamia pest control by bats

As recently published in the journal Biological Conservation, natural vegetation is the most important factor increasing the activity of insect-eating bat species on macadamia orchards.

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Read more about the article How are invasive alien plants perceived by urban residents?
An urban park wetland covered in a dense mat of Parrot’s feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) (Photo: LJ Potgieter)

How are invasive alien plants perceived by urban residents?

Invasive alien plants (IAPs) and their management are perceived both negatively and positively by urban residents, but these perceptions are shaped by individuals’ socio-demographic characteristics.

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