The proliferation of invasive plant species is posing one of the main challenges for the conservation of native flora in various island and coastal areas. Various administrations and naturalist groups are focusing on controlling and eradicating foreign plants that displace native species, disrupting the balance of local ecosystems and affecting both biodiversity and the landscape.
One of the most notable cases currently takes place in Tenerife, where the Cabildo has launched a An unprecedented strategy to combat the spread of the cat's tail (Pennisetum setaceum) and the pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana).These invasive plants have colonized numerous natural spaces and peri-urban areas, causing the reduction of native vegetation and hindering the recovery of unique habitats.
Action plan to eradicate invasive flora
To address this problem, the island authorities are allocating around five million euros in two major initiatives: the eradication of the pampas grass, with a budget of 1,2 million and work scheduled for two and a half years, and the management and elimination of the cat's tail and other invasive species, with a budget of 3,7 million until 2027. These resources are applied especially in areas of high ecological value, roadsides and areas undergoing degradation..
Among the measures carried out, the following stand out: Removal of more than 6,5 tons of duster at the entrances to Tenerife South Airport and more than a thousand interventions at different points on the island to eliminate up to 44 tons of non-native flora. Specialized teams are working to clear particularly sensitive areas such as hard-to-reach ravines and areas with endangered species.
Importance of follow-up and constant effort
From scientific associations and experts such as biologist Victor De Leon, the emphasis is placed on need to maintain control effort continuously and not be limited to sporadic interventions. Many of these plants have rapid life cycles, easily dispersing thanks to the action of the wind or their ability to take root in poor soils, making regular monitoring of infestations and complete root removal essential to prevent their return.
De León comments that other species such as the cat's claw (Carpobrotus spp.), the common reed, the stench or matospuma and the agaves, are also among the most harmful invaders in the Canary Islands and require specific eradication plans due to their propagation characteristics and their negative impact on the environment.
Social awareness and educational events
La citizen involvement This is essential in this fight. Authorities advise avoiding planting invasive species in private gardens and reporting any detection of these plants in public spaces to the relevant authorities, as their trade and distribution are legally prohibited.
El Habitat Naturalist Group and several universities have launched exploration and dissemination days at iconic locations like the Tower of Hercules, where researchers and participants can observe soil biodiversity and see the real impact of invasive plants on local flora. These practical encounters allow for comparing affected areas with others where native vegetation persists, identifying the main organisms that contribute to the ecosystem's balance.
