What is the impact of non-native invasive plants on Alabama's forests?

Non-native invasive plants have a significant negative impact on the biodiversity of Alabama's forests. These species often outcompete native plants for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, leading to a decline in native plant populations. A reduction in plant diversity can cascade through the ecosystem, affecting animals that rely on native plants for habitat and food. This disruption can lead to a loss of ecosystem resilience, making it harder for the forest to recover from disturbances and changing environmental conditions.

The introduction of invasive species can alter the composition of plant communities, resulting in monocultures that further reduce habitat availability for native wildlife. The loss of a diverse set of flora can weaken the overall health of the ecosystem, complicating conservation efforts and potentially leading to the extinction of native species that cannot compete with invaders. This underscores the critical importance of managing and controlling the spread of non-native invasive plants to maintain the integrity and health of forest ecosystems.