Modelando a expansão da gramínea invasora Brachiaria spp. em uma unidade de conservação

A study on the expansion of the invasive grass Brachiaria spp. in Emas National Park, a critical UNESCO World Heritage Site in Brazil's Cerrado biome, reveals that internal roads and light availability are key drivers of its spread. The research found that vehicle traffic along these roads increases Brachiaria abundance tenfold compared to restricted-access areas, while open vegetation types like Campo Limpo are up to 20 times more susceptible to invasion than forested areas. Subtle slopes (around 1 degree) also direct grass expansion toward lower elevations. Using spatial-temporal data from 2002 and 2012, cellular automaton models linked these patterns to environmental variables, suggesting targeted management strategies such as road use restrictions, phytosanitary measures for visitors, and prioritization of control in open areas and declivities. This work provides actionable insights for mitigating invasive species impacts in protected areas.

Luz Braga Sant’Anna, C. Modelando a expansão da gramínea invasora Brachiaria spp. em uma unidade de conservação. https://doi.org/10.47749/t/unicamp.2013.914876