Chumasande MatiwaneInvasive plant species are widely considered a major threat to the biodiversity of the area, affecting the livelihoods of the animals around.
Agricultural productivity is lost due to the invasive nature of most of these plant species. These are some of the invasive plants to take note of.
Water hyacinth
Water hyacinth is considered one of the worst aquatic weeds in the world due to its invasive potential, which poses a threat to aquatic ecosystems. This invasive plant forms dense mats that completely cover the surface of water bodies, altering the water’s chemistry and negatively impacting aquatic organisms. Some of the harmful effects of water hyacinth infestations include the destruction of aquatic biodiversity and the blockage of river flows, which can lead to flooding if not properly managed.
Currently, the country is facing challenges with water hyacinths at Hartbeespoort Dam, where the dam has become so polluted and overgrown with hyacinths that it is no longer safe for use.
Image Credit: Pexel
The Queensland umbrella tree
This is a tropical species found in the coastal forests of KwaZulu-Natal. The plant species is known as an epiphytic, meaning it grows on other trees and ends up smothering the host tree with its evergreen multi-stemmed leaves. It can also be grown as an ornamental and is increasingly infiltrating the natural coastal forest to the detriment of indigenous vegetation in the area.
Pompom weed
The plant, scientifically known as Campuloclinium macrocephalum, is native to Brazil and was introduced to the country around the year 1900. It poses a significant threat to the grasslands of ten countries, as it leads to the degradation of velds. This degradation results in lower biodiversity and diminishes the grazing capacity of the veld. Additionally, the plant is unpalatable to many herbivores, particularly during its flowering season.
The Jacaranda tree
Famous for its purple flowering leaves blossoming in the springtime around the North of the country, the tree is regarded as an invasive species as it can outcompete the native tree species. It forms thickets of seedlings beneath planted trees from which the species may expand and exclude other vegetation. Although beautiful, it is still invasive and causes environmental impacts on other tree species.
Image Credit: Unsplash
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