Ecological impacts and drivers of invasive plant introduction in Southeast Asian forests: a systematic literature review

Date

6-2025

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Forestry

College

College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Marco A. Galang

Committee Member

Gaudencio H. Ramos III, Romnick S. Baliton

Abstract

This study investigates the ecological impacts brought by invasive alien plant species (IAPS) and the factors that drive their introduction in Southeast Asian forest ecosystems through a systematic literature review. Results of the analysis show that while research on IAPS is broadly distributed across academic publications, there are notable geographic imbalances, with Indonesia being the most researched region, whereas countries such as Timor-Leste, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and Cambodia are largely understudied. Tropical rainforests are the most frequently studied habitats, and with 178 IAPS identified, the majority of which are herbs. Notable invasive plant species include Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata, and Clidemia hirta. Furthermore, the primary ecological impacts identified include biodiversity loss, allelopathic effects, habitat loss, competition for resources, and alterations to ecosystem processes. Human-driven influences, such as silvicultural practices, horticultural introductions, ecotourism, international trade, and timber production, facilitate the spread of these invasive species. The review also identifies key knowledge gaps, including a lack of sufficient research efforts, inadequate management strategies, and insufficient data across the region. These findings highlight the importance of enhanced coordination and focused research and management strategies to reduce the growing impact and spread of IAPS on Southeast Asia's forest ecosystems.

Language

English

LC Subject

Biological invasion, Bioinvasion, Alien plants, Species introductions, Weeds

Location

UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR)

Document Type

Thesis

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