Population status, reproductive biology, and genetic diversity of Ulex europaeus L., an invasive plant, in populations of the Colombian Central Cordillera

Despite being a highly invasive species with the potential to spread into new areas in Colombia, Ulex europaeus has been little studied at the ecological and genetic levels. This lack of information makes it a priority to generate new knowledge about both the ecological dynamics of its populations and their genetic diversity in invaded areas of the country. Therefore, this study proposes to evaluate the population status, reproductive phenology, and genetic diversity of Ulex europaeus in populations of the Colombian Central Cordillera, specifically in populations located in the buffer zone of Los Nevados National Natural Park, a region heavily affected by anthropogenic disturbances. The aim is to generate new knowledge about the species to inform management strategies and prevent its future invasion into other areas of the country.