Protecting rare plants from invasive plants: risk assessment and habitat enhancement on California’s central Coast

Summary

Invasive plant species are one of the biggest threats to biological diversity and are often listed as key factors in the decline of rare plants. However, the mechanisms and extent of these impacts are poorly understood. In this project, we are working with the California Invasive Plant Council to assess the potential impacts of invasive plants on a suite of 50 rare California plants by developing a geographic risk assessment. We are also conducting on-the-ground research and management activities for three focal species. Using surveys and monitoring, we will update population information, create conservation seed collections, and test seed viability for three federally listed plants: Pismo clarkia (Clarkia speciosa subsp. maculata), Camatta Canyon amole (Hooveria purpurea var. reducta), and Gaviota tarplant (Deinandra increscens subsp. villosa).