NEOPHYTE LOCATIONS

What are (invasive) neophytes?

In botany, a neophyte is a plant species which is not native to a geographical region and was introduced in recent history, i.e. following the discovery of America (1492). Neophytes are plants that were introduced intentionally (e.g. ornamental plants like buddleia) as well as those that were spread unintentionally.

If the introduced plants multiply and spread on their own to such an extent that they dominate over native plants, they are referred to as invasive neophytes.

List of invasive neophytes in Tirol

Why are we looking for neophytes in the Ötztal?

Due to its special location, the Ötztal has been “relatively spared” from invasive neophytes. It therefore makes sense to know the places where such “new plants” appear for the first time, in order to prevent their spread as early as possible.

To support our efforts of stemming the spread of neophytes in the Ötztal, we are asking for your help! Please report sighting locations of the following species to us:

•  Glandular balsam
•  Common buddleia
•  Knotweed
•  Black locust
•  Goldenrod
•  American skunk cabbage

Please send photos and GPS coordinates or precise location information to oberweger@naturpark-oetztal.at - we will then take appropriate action.

We thank you for your help!