Fabceae invasion in Chile: current progress, pattern, processes and impacts

Abstract

Exotic plant invasions is a serious problem worldwide. One of the most prominent groups of invasive plants, with large impacts worldwide is the Fabaceae Family (Legumes). In Chile, the exotic Fabaceae reachthe72 species, comprising 42 herbs, 8 vines, 11 shrubs and 11 trees. In this article we review for the first time the state-of-art of Fabaceae invasion, paying more attention to two widely distributed and well-known invasive species: the shrub Teline monspessulana (French broom) and the tree Acacia dealbata (Silver wattle). We describe their invasion mechanisms, distribution patterns and the impacts that these species cause on the invaded ecosystems in Chile. We conclude that even when the studies on invasive Fabaceae have increased, there is still a deficit of specific studies dedicated to the quantification and prediction of their impacts. This information will be fundamental to generate appropriate management strategies that reduce the impact of invasive Fabaceae.