Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

Interim profile, incomplete information Click here to go back Details of this species in Gibraltar Status: Alien Invasiveness: Invasive Occurrence: Reported Source: Perez and Bensusan, undated in Varnham, 2006; Cortes and Abrines, 1994 in Varnham, 2006 Arrival Date: Introduction: Intentional Species Notes for this Location: Opuntia ficus-indica was introduced as a garden plant, and then escaped from cultivation. O. ficus-indica is potentially problematic, it can form extensive stands that dominate over native flora. It already poses a threat to the indigenous plants on the western cliffs of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. A few stands exist within Upper Rock, but they appear to be spreading steadily. It is especially abundant on the cliffs of the western edge of the reserve (Perez and Bensusan, undated in Varnham, 2006). Largest concentration is on the upper Europa Advance area, also on Europa Foreshore (Cortes and Abrines, 1994 in Varnham, 2006). O. ficus-indica may also spread to other areas in the lower reaches of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve (Perez and Bensusan, undated in Varnham, 2006). Management Notes for this Location: Upper Rock Management Plan recommends eradicating this species from accessible areas within the nature reserve. It also recommends legislation prohibiting growing or keeping this species in gardens and homes within the reserve (Perez and Bensusan, undated in Varnham, 2006). Location Notes: Last Modified: 17/06/2008 9:57:28 a.m.