Find out why some trees become invaders and how ecologists are tackling the problem.
In this recorded lecture, invasion ecologist Martin A. Núnez describes how forest trees that were introduced for forestry, restoration or climate mitigation can spread outside plantations and alter native ecosystems. He outlines what makes certain species invasive, from their interactions with soil fungi to traits that help them thrive in new environments, and he reflects on the ecological and management challenges tree invasions pose. M. Núnez explains that studying tree invasions offers a chance to test ecological and evolutionary theory while informing practical measures to prevent and manage future invasions. Watch the full talk to learn about the global patterns of forest tree invasions and why integrated ecological understanding is essential for effective policy and management.
About the speaker:
Dr Martin A. Núnez is an associate professor in the Department of Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Houston and an ecologist specialising in biological invasions. He uses invasions to test ecological and evolutionary theories and to apply ecological knowledge to the management of these serious threats. His research covers below-ground ecology—particularly how mycorrhizal fungi influence plant invasions.—management of invasive tree species, and the impacts of invasive species and how to reduce them.