Research

Publications
Title: Yellow bur-head, Limnocharis flava (L.) Buchenau (Alismataceae), in China: a popular ornamental aquatic plant and a potential invasive species
First author: Xiong, Wen; Sun, Heying; Shao, Haichen; Li, Jingwei; Tang, Wei; Wang, Hui; Wang, Qiang; Li, Yanxia; Bowler, Peter A.
Journal: BIOINVASIONS RECORDS
Years: 2023
Volume / issue: /
DOI: 10.3391/bir.2023.12.2.11
Abstract: Non-native aquatic plants are important considerations in environmental management because of their rapid growth, ability to disperse and establish feral populations quickly, and because of their negative ecological and economic impacts. Yellow bur-head (Limnocharis flava) is an emergent aquatic plant native to tropical and subtropical America that has been introduced primarily through the aquarium trade on all continents except Antarctica. Recently, this species has developed naturalized populations because of its widespread use in constructed wetland restoration projects and aquatic gardens. There is little information about yellow bur-head in China and the lack of scientific research and monitoring has made the management of this non-native aquatic species challenging. In this study, we review introduction pathway, current distribution, and ecological impacts caused by yellow bur-head through field surveys and a review of the literature. Yellow bur-head introduced in China as ornamental plants and spread quickly due to aquarium trade, ecological restoration. Now, this species has successfully established feral populations in 11 Provinces of south China. And this species caused significant negative impacts on native biodiversity and grain production. Thus, more attention should pay on monitoring and management of this non-native species. This study provides useful information for researchers and managers of non-native aquatic plants in China and other regions.