Invasive flora of Albania

Abstract

Biodiversity loss caused by invasive species may soon surpass the damage done by habitat destruction. Biological invasions are an important component of human-caused global environmental change in this content invasive alien species are now a major focus of global conservation concern. The decisions need to be made on whether benefits derived from the invasive spread of an alien species outweigh the reduced value of ecosystem services, e.g. Ailanthus altissima is a rapidly growing. Mature trees can reach 80 feet or more in eight. Ailanthus altissima occurs most frequently in lowland roadsides, in Western part of Albania. Tree-of-heaven is a prolific seed producer, and can overrun native vegetation. Once established, it can quickly take over a site and form an impenetrable thicket. An Ailanthus tree also produces toxins that prevent the establishment of other plant species. The root system is aggressive enough to cause damage to sewers and foundations. Invasion by Ailanthus altissima in Albania is result of wrong planting practices of foresting in the past. It is necessary to consider actions to deal with the current problems caused by invasive species and to reduce the magnitude of the problem in the future. The aim of the paper is the assessment of the alien flora of Albania and its traits. These data consists of a total of 84 alien taxa. Regarding flowering traits, most of the aliens have a long flowering period (over 1 month) and flower in late spring, summer and autumn, when few of the native plants are in bloom. The diversity of the ecological character- istics of the plants suggests a potential of impacts that needs to be further assessed. Terms “alien” and “invasive” species are used without regard to their economic, sanitary, aesthetic, ecological, or evolutionary impact. Due to the lack of consen-sus among authors in the use of these terms, we adopted the following meaning. Invasive alien species in an area is a non-indigenous species that evolved elsewhere and is present in the area of interest.