IAI-Data-CRN_012_Baruch_Invaders: Response of a native Neotropical savanna grass and two African invaders to high CO2, drought, herbivory and fire

The invaders project analyzed the response of a native Neotropical savanna grass (Trachypogon plumosus) and two African invaders (Hyparrhenia rufa and Melinis minutiflora) to high CO2, drought, herbivory and fire. Elevated CO2 increased germination and seedling size in introduced grasses. Their relative growth rate was >100 higher than in the native grass. Under high CO2, biomass of African grasses increased 21 - 47%. Invaders also were more efficient using water and nitrogen, but had lower leaf construction cost. The invaders recovered faster after herbivory and burning. Their superiority under high CO2 points to increased competitive strength and an expansion of their range in Neotropical savannas. Collaborator: Dr. Robert B. Jackson.