Summary
A critical re-evaluation of Spartina's role in the Yellow Sea reveals that its eradication as a 'tidal flat killer' may not be the optimal management strategy. While Spartina is often blamed for altering tidal flats, this study challenges its invasive status by examining the complex ecological dynamics it introduces. Rather than focusing solely on its destructive effects, the research highlights Spartina's potential to generate new knowledge about coastal ecologies and foster a transnational ecological identity in the Yellow Sea region. The paper advocates for a 'multispecies ethic,' suggesting that accepting Spartina as part of the ecosystem could better address the multifaceted threats to tidal flats. This approach, inspired by 'staying with the trouble,' offers a nuanced perspective on invasive species management and conservation efforts in UNESCO-recognized sites.
Citation
Choi, Y. R. (2023). How to stay with the trouble: Spartina invasion and management in the tidal flats of the Yellow Sea. Coastal Studies & Society, 2(3), 311–328. https://doi.org/10.1177/26349817231184397