Photosynthetic Pathways and Non‐Native Plant Invasions in North America
| Authors: | Qinfeng Guo, Hong Qian, Lixin Wang |
| Year: | 2026 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Southern Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1111/jbi.70231 |
| Source: | Journal of Biogeography |
Abstract
Previous studies have compared various eco‐physiological aspects among C 3 , C 4 , and Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) plants, mostly using native species. The variation in key genetic and life‐history traits and their distribution among non‐native plants with the three photosynthetic pathways remains poorly understood. Here, we examine whether the photosynthetic pathways of non‐native plants in North America are linked to several major species traits and their current distributions. Location: North America.
We collate genetic and life‐history data on chromosome number (ploidy levels), leaf size, plant height, seed size, life or growth form, reproductive mode, and phenology for 1977 non‐native species from published sources. Native and non‐native range sizes of each species are estimated according to the operational geographical units in which the species is present. The associated climatic data are obtained from the CHELSA climate database. We use one‐way ANOVA, the pairwise Mann–Whitney U ‐test, and the Kruskal‐Wallis test to examine the links among photosynthetic pathways, species traits, and distributions. We also perform linear regressions to examine the role of time (since introduction) in the spread of these non‐native species.
Non‐native plants with the three photosynthetic pathways show clear differences in several life‐history traits (ploidy level, leaf and seed size, plant height, reproductive mode), and phenology. The differences among the three plant types in their current distributions (range size, latitude, and elevation) demonstrate that they occupy distinct climate space across North America, although time (since introduction) also plays a role.
Our findings show clear links of photosynthetic pathways with life history and the distribution of regional non‐native flora. Such results have strong implications for invasion research and management. Future studies should emphasize the roles of photosynthesis with additional traits and spread potential under projected land use and climate fluctuations.