Glasilo biljne zaštite, Vol. 17 No. 3, 2017.
Original scientific paper
Distribution of invasive alien species tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle) by the Croatian counties
Maja Novak
orcid.org/0000-0002-6837-3079
; HCPHS‐ Zavod za zaštitu bilja Zagreb
Nenad Novak
; HCPHS‐ Zavod za zaštitu bilja Zagreb
Abstract
Tree of heaven is a fast ‐ growing deciduous tree originating from dry and warm parts of China. The species is spread on every continent except Antarctica, and is considered one of the most invasive plant species. The objective of this monitoring was to determine the distribution of tree of heaven in Croatia, the most common habitats and growing conditions, the size and vigor of the populations, height and density of the plants and impact on native species. Two to three counties were visited per year, and each is being visited two to three times during the growing season. Monitoring was carried out in the period 2007. – 2014. and tree of heaven was recorded in Zagreb and all 20 counties in Croatia. In the continental part of Croatia, tree of heaven was extended to limited areas and do not represent a direct threat, although in some areas it suppress other plants, and shows a tendency to intensive expansion and suppression of indigenous plants. Along the coastal area, along the main costal road, at tourist resorts and cities, and on the islands tree of heaven was recorded as a very aggressive species which often form monocultures thus reducing biodiversity. It was found that tree of heaven prefers devastated habitats, it occupies areas a lot faster than other species, and it is man's faithful companion. Three of heaven presents a special danger on islands because of the isolated ecosystems and in protected areas in which it is recorded, such as Nature Park Biokovo and National Park Krka.
Keywords
tree of heaven; Ailanthus altissima; invasive species; distribution; biodiversity; Croatia
Hrčak ID:
189200
URI
Publication date:
1.4.2017.
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