invasive-and-expanding-species

Invasive and expanding species are plants that establish and spread beyond their native ranges, often outcompeting local flora through rapid growth, prolific reproduction, or allelopathic chemical release. Understanding their biology and ecology is critical for plant science, as these species can fundamentally alter soil chemistry, light availability, and nutrient cycles in ways that reshape entire plant communities. Research into their spread mechanisms, competitive adaptations, and interactions with native ecosystems informs both conservation strategies and our broader understanding of plant resilience and colonization dynamics.