New alien plant found in Corse (FR) and status of other alien plants
Field studies on invasive alien plants were conducted in Corse (FR) during summer and autumn 2011. Results showed that several alien plants are currently spreading in the island and one species was recorded for the first time in Corse.
One new species was discovered and may represent a threat:
- Paspalum notatum (Poaceae): originating from the Americas, seeds of this species are sold as a lawn plant in France. P. notatum has been observed in a campsite in Porto-Vecchio although it had not been planted there, forming 3 patches of 2 to 5 m² each. This species should usefully be monitored considering its invasive behavior elsewhere in the world.
Two species were already known to be present in Corse and may represent a threat:
- Lantana camara (Verbenaceae): originating from the Americas, this species is a well-known invasive plant in tropical areas. L. camara may naturalize in Porto-Vecchio in the near future as it is producing fruits and seedlings.
- Podranea ricasoliana (Bignoniaceae): native to Africa, this species was already recorded in Metropolitan France (but not established), Italy and Spain, as well as in Corse in Calvi and Tarco. The species has also been observed in Porto-Vecchio overwhelming 1000 m² of an olive tree plantation. This species should usefully be monitored considering its invasive behavior elsewhere in the world.
The following alien species are spreading rapidly in Corse:
- Crepis bursifolia (Asteraceae): originating from southern Italy, this plant is expanding its range in the Western Mediterranean area, as well as in Corse.
- Dysphania pumilio (Dyasphaniaceae): originating from Australia, the naturalized range of this species is expanding in Western Europe, including Corse.
- Eleusine indica (Poaceae): native to Africa and Asia, this species is widespread in Europe and is spreading in urban areas in Corse.
- Gaura lindheimeri (Onagraceae): originating from North America this ornamental species is widely cultivated and extending its range in Corse.
Sources
Jean-Marc Tison, personal communication 2012, Email: jmltison@gmail.com