img

Wechat

Adv search

Journal of Desert Research ›› 2026, Vol. 46 ›› Issue (3): 296-303.DOI: 10.7522/j.issn.1000-694X.2025.00267

Previous Articles    

Current status of invasive alien plants in the Horqin Sandy Land

Yuan Yuan1(), Caiyun Zhang1, Xiaoxu Lang1, Qing Zhang1,2,3,4()   

  1. 1.School of Ecology and Environment /, Inner Mongolia University,Hohhot 010021,China
    2.Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Safety /, Inner Mongolia University,Hohhot 010021,China
    3.Inner Mongolia Agro-Pastoral Ecotone Integrated Ecosystem Research Station /, Inner Mongolia University,Hohhot 010021,China
    4.MOE Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau, Inner Mongolia University,Hohhot 010021,China
  • Received:2025-06-06 Revised:2025-10-30 Online:2026-05-20 Published:2026-06-11
  • Contact: Qing Zhang

Abstract:

Invasive alien plant species are one of the critical ecological challenges that human society must urgently address in the 21st century. A systematic understanding of the species composition and distribution characteristics of invasive alien plants is of great significance for maintaining ecosystem stability and promoting regional sustainable development. Although some preliminary studies have explored certain invasive plant species in the Horqin Sandy Land, there is still a lack of systematic investigation and comprehensive assessment of the species composition and spatial distribution patterns of alien invasive plants in the region. Relevant research remains noticeably insufficient. Therefore, in this study, conducted during July to August 2024, we systematically investigated the species composition, native origins, life forms, flora characteristics, and distribution patterns of alien invasive plants in the Horqin Sandy Land through field surveys and literature review. The results showed that there are 51 species of alien invasive plants in the Horqin Sandy Land, belonging to 38 genera and 16 families. Among them, Asteraceae has the highest number of species. In terms of life form, annual herbs are predominant. Most species originate from the Americas. Flora analysis indicates that at both the family and genus levels, the alien invasive plants in the Horqin Sandy Land exhibit tropical floristic characteristics. The distribution pattern shows that the number of alien invasive plants varies among different banners and counties in the Horqin Sandy Land, with the highest species richness observed in the banners and counties of Chifeng City. This study systematically reviews the current status of alien invasive plant species in the Horqin Sandy Land, providing a scientific basis for their monitoring and control.

Key words: invasive alien plants, Horqin Sandy Land, species composition, floristic characteristics, distribution patterns

CLC Number: