Alien Plants Pose Significant Threat to Arctic Biodiversity
The Intergovernmental Panel on Nature (IPBES) recognizes non-native species as a significant threat to global species diversity. Researchers have now cataloged alien plants that may pose a threat to flora in the Arctic region.
A total of 2,554 species were identified as potentially finding a suitable climatic niche in the contemporary Arctic.
These plants could establish themselves in the Arctic if transport occurs, with human activity being a probable mechanism for their spread. The research indicates that alien species from various parts of the world could find a niche in the Arctic, facilitated by current human activities in the region.
Cataloging Potential Invaders
The study involved a "horizon scan" of approximately 14,000 known alien plant species that can spread to non-native locations. Data from over 51 million occurrences of these species were utilized from sources such as the GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility), large databases, and scientific literature. The first author, Tor Henrik Ulsted, completed this work as a master's student at the NTNU University Museum.
Arctic Hotspots Identified
The researchers' map identifies hotspot areas in the Arctic where numerous alien species can tolerate the climate. Northern Norway exhibits the highest number of potential species. Svalbard is also identified as vulnerable, with 86 alien species capable of finding a climatic niche there. Changing conditions in the Arctic, including warmer temperatures, contribute to the increasing number of alien species that could thrive.
Proactive Management for Biodiversity
This new methodology is intended to assist expert committees, such as those at the Norwegian Biodiversity Information Centre, in assessing the risk of alien species. The goal is to identify and manage alien species early to prevent them from becoming invasive. This approach supports objectives within the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and measures outlined in the Norwegian authorities' action plan against alien organisms.