Project Page Views: [ 626 ]
| Project Metadata Element | Details |
| Project Title | Invasive alien aquatic plants in Ireland; from ecophysiological traits to management strategies |
| Research Area | Water |
| Project Acronym | |
| Principal Investigator or Lead Irish Partner | Marcel Jansen |
| Lead Institution or Organisation | University College Cork (UCC) |
| Lead Country | Ireland |
| Latitude, Longitude (of Lead Institution) | 51.89348, -8.49206 |
| Lead Funding Entity | Environmental Protection Agency |
| Approximate Project Start Date | 01/09/2013 |
| Approximate Project Finishing Date | 01/09/2016 |
| Project Website (if any) | |
| Links to other Web-based resources | |
| Project Keywords | Invasive alien aquatic plants; Freshwater; Ecological Impact; Management control strategies |
| Project Abstract | Invasive alien aquatic plants (IAAP) are an increasing economic and ecological threat to Irelands freshwaters. Compared to the extensive literature on terrestrial invasive plant species, much less is known about the physiological traits and habitat preferences underpinning invasiveness of floating and submerged aquatic invasive plants, and how these apply to Irish waters. Understanding the comparative biology of alien aquatic plants, particularly species traits governing invasion success, is vital for predicting their future distribution, ecological impact and to develop effective management control strategies. In this project, we will analyse growth and invasiveness in the context of the seasonality of the Irish climate, and in response to enhanced levels of plant nutrients (eutrophication). We will also determine the seasonality of herbicide effectiveness. The proposed programme integrates database mining, field and mesocosm approaches, will enhance our understanding of the threat posed by alien aquatic plants in Ireland, and will inform management strategies. |