Author
Botle N Marrand
botlemarrand350@gmail.com
Nelson Mandela University
Gqeberha/ Port Elizabeth
Coauthors
Samalesu G Mayonde, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha/ Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Ayanda Kwaza, Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Gqeberha/ Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Abstract
Invasive cacti form one of the largest alien plant groups in South Africa, currently listed under the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act of 2004, due to their adverse impacts on native biodiversity and ecosystem services. These species include, to name a few, Opuntia engelmannii, O. stricta and O. ficus-indica. While most studies focus on a single invasive cactus species, here we investigated a combination of invasive cacti for management purposes. We surveyed invasive cactus species in the Blue Crane Route Municipality, quantified their density, and assessed their impact on herbaceous plants and soil properties. Surveyed sites differed by 483m in altitude, with distinct species composition and herbaceous cover abundance observed in each location. Evaluation of the biocontrol agent, the cochineal, indicated that cochineal insects were more prevalent at lower altitude sites.
keywords
Agricultural productivity
Biological control
Density
Field survey
Soil properties
Highlights
The talk will highlight the role that altitude plays in the establishment of invasive cacti
The harmfulness of invasive cacti in native herbaceous cover abundance
Effects of allelopathic chemicals in soil property availability for native plants