Elevational Distribution of Alien Plant Species in the Western Caucasus

Alien plant species in the Western Caucasus exhibit a distinct elevational distribution, with maximum richness concentrated in lower, more climatically favorable zones where human activity is highest. Of 100 alien species studied—comprising herbaceous (59%) and arboreous (41%) plants—most originate from North America and East Asia, and 57% are cultivated. Species diversity declines with elevation, with only 17 species found above 1000 m a.s.l., primarily accidental annual herbs of North American origin. Notably, Matricaria suaveolens is the sole alien species recorded above the timberline (2000 m a.s.l.). The study highlights differences between southern and northern macroslopes, attributing the penetration of aliens into upper belts to human activities such as road construction and tourist infrastructure development.

Akatova, T. V., & Akatov, V. V. (2019). Elevational Distribution of Alien Plant Species in the Western Caucasus. Russian Journal of Biological Invasions, 10(3), 205–219. https://doi.org/10.1134/s2075111719030044