Problem Plants and Alien Weeds of South Africa, by Clive Bromilow

Accessible information about invasive species, alien and indigenous weeds and has never been more critical, as these species increasingly threaten native habitats and agricultural production, and legislation requires that we act to control their impact and spread. 

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Read more about the article Reducing the number of invasive species introduced through shipping
The authors found that more alien species with the potential to establish are likely to be introduced to Durban than to other South African ports. One such a species that is not yet in South Africa that could be introduced to Durban through high risk shipping routes, is the disease vector, the southern house mosquito (Culex quinquefasciatus). (Photo credit: http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/86848, Public Domain/released by CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) - Original photograph by James Gathany)

Reducing the number of invasive species introduced through shipping

Research conducted by C·I·B post-doctoral fellow Katelyn Faulkner demonstrates that to reduce invasions, ships travelling along high risk routes should be targeted for inspections.

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Read more about the article “Bold steps” needed to improve management of invasive pines
Photo by Brian van Wilgen

“Bold steps” needed to improve management of invasive pines

“Bold steps” are needed to improve the management of specifically invasive pines in protected areas of the Cape Floral Region (CFR), researchers from several of South Africa’s major environmental organisations warn.

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Read more about the article Fruits of invasive plants – good food for native birds
Fruits of mulberry (Morus alba), one of the invasive alien plants species used in the study (Photo credit: Wikipedia Commons)

Fruits of invasive plants – good food for native birds

The fruits of invasive alien plants are not only an attractive source of food for native birds, but also provide enough energy for their daily energy demands, according to a recent study by University of KwaZulu-Natal student, Vuyisile Thabethe.

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Skyscrapers and bungalows: the alien species real estate market on Marcus Island

An interesting study by C∙I∙B PhD student, Saachi Sadchatheeswaran, examined the different number of species (species richness) and invertebrates on the rocky shores of Marcus Island after the arrival of alien species that were also ecosystem engineers.

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