Species richness of tree and shrub layers in riparian forests of the Western Caucasus dominated by alien species

Invasive alien species, including Ailanthus altissima and Robinia pseudoacacia, do not always outcompete native species in riparian forests of the Western Caucasus. However, when they dominate, these invasive species reduce community species richness by aggressively partitioning environmental resources, leaving fewer for associated species. The study analyzed tree and shrub layers in these forests, revealing that while alien species may not always be more abundant, their competitive dominance negatively impacts biodiversity.

Akatov, V. V., Akatova, T. V., & Shadzhe, A. E. (2012). Species richness of tree and shrub layers in riparian forests of the Western Caucasus dominated by alien species. Russian Journal of Ecology, 43(4), 294–301. https://doi.org/10.1134/s1067413612040030