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Plant Invasive Species Success Strategies and Their Impact on Ecosystems

Peer-reviewed article overview and publication details.

August 20, 2026Vimal KishorePublishedReview

Abstract

Another ecological theory relates to the concept of limiting similarity. This theory proposes that invasive species have characteristics that are different from those of native species within an ecosystem. Research has shown that invasive species have wider physiological niches, more efficient means of acquiring resources, and traits associated with the fast-return end of the leaf economics spectrum (LES). Invasive species have lower leaf mass per square meter, higher rates of carbon assimilation, and higher nitrogen content in their leaves. These characteristics enable invasive species to thrive in resource-poor environments. Also, invasive species exhibit high phenotypic plasticity, enabling them to survive in diverse environmental conditions. Such plasticity is associated with features such as the ability of invasive species to develop their leaves early in their life cycle, high water-use efficiency, and high photosynthesis rates at low light intensities. Such traits provide invasive species with a competitive advantage over native species. Overall, the complexity of invasive plant species is well documented in the scientific literature. While many factors contribute to the success of invasive species, including resource availability, disturbance regimes, and environmental changes, it is necessary to study their physiological traits to develop management strategies. So, continued research into the invasiveness of plant species, especially in resource-poor environments, is needed to understand the mechanisms behind their invasiveness and to develop effective management plans to control their impact on ecosystems.

DOI

10.71005/sjjv4406

Last Updated

August 20, 2026

Copyright

Atlantic Journal of Life Sciences (2026)

Pages

Not provided

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American Psychological Association

Kishore, V. (2026). Plant Invasive Species Success Strategies and Their Impact on Ecosystems. Atlantic Journal of Life Sciences. https://doi.org/10.71005/sjjv4406