Apparent competition and native consumers exacerbate the strong competitive effect of an exotic plant species.
Ecology
; 96(4): 1052-61, 2015 Apr.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-26230025
ABSTRACT
Direct and indirect effects can play a key role in invasions, but experiments evaluating both are rare. We examined the roles of direct competition and apparent competition by exotic Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) by manipulating (1) L. maackii vegetation, (2) presence of L. maackii fruits, and (3) access to plants by small mammals and deer. Direct competition with L. maackii reduced the abundance and richness of native and exotic species, and native consumers significantly reduced the abundance and richness of native species. Although effects of direct competition and consumption were more pervasive, richness of native plants was also reduced through apparent competition, as small-mammal consumers reduced richness only when L. maackii fruits were present. Our experiment reveals the multiple, interactive pathways that affect the success and impact of an invasive exotic plant exotic plants may directly benefit from reduced attack by native consumers, may directly exert strong competitive effects on native plants, and may also benefit from apparent competition.
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Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Ecossistema
/
Lonicera
/
Espécies Introduzidas
/
Herbivoria
Limite:
Animals
País/Região como assunto:
America do norte
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Ecology
Ano de publicação:
2015
Tipo de documento:
Article