R+D+i applied to the control of invasive species in Mediterranean river ecosystems. The case of the Giant reed (Arundo donax L.)

Abstract

Jiménez-Ruiz, Sánchez-Martínez, F.J. 2015. R+D+i applied to the control of invasive species in Mediterranean river ecosystems. The case of the Giant reed (Arundo donax L.). Ecosistemas 24(1): 32-35. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.2015.24-1.06

he problems related to Arundo donax L. (Giant reed) has gone beyond the biological implications associated with invasive species. The long occupation of the reeds on the banks of rivers in the entire Mediterranean region produces a wide range of serious impacts, which has led to a specific project to control the species got underway. The project has involved testing a battery of treatments for control of the species: herbicides, physical treatments, mechanical and biological, as well as knowledge of the biology of the species in areas where they have carried out the treatments by population census. Finally, we have tested remote sensing techniques to map the distribution of the species. The results have demonstrated the potential to reach a severe and lasting control of the species in areas where it has been performed both by chemical methods such as biological and mechanical methods.