Mapping of invasive alien plants have started

Parks Dinarides have started with field research of invasive alien plant species (Ailanthus altissima, Reynoutria japonica, Broussonetia papyrifera, Aclepias syriaca, Xantium strumarium subsp. italicum, etc.) in the area of the capital city of Podgorica, as well as its surrounding.

The aim of these researches is the systematic mapping of the distribution of certain invasive alien plant taxa in the territory of Montenegro. Alien invasive species represent a major threat to domestic biodiversity, especially to protected areas, rare and endangered species and their habitats.

Mapping will be carried out with the help of the Biologer application, which has recently been available in Montenegro. Biologer represents an open database on biodiversity. Scientists, experts, nature lovers, interested citizens can use the Biologer application to take photos of a plant, animal, or mushroom, and after the photos are sent to the server, the editors will determine which species it is.

Regarding that, we invite interested citizens to install the Biologer application and contribute to the mapping of invasive plant species. Only with data about the distribution and ecology of these species, a proper planning and development of strategies for their suppression can be done in qualitz way.

                The project includes field researches and mapping of the presence of invasive plants with the help of the Biologer application, first of all in urban areas, which represent spreading centers, as well as along roads, river valleys, etc. Also, research should be conducted in the Skadar lake NP area, which is under the greatest pressure from invasive plants.

                The activity is carried out within the project “Mapping of alien invasive plant species and establishing the Biologer platform in Montenegro”, fundedby the Rufford Small Grants Foundation from the United Kingdom.