Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

General Impact Once established in a community L. japonicum displace native species and alters local fire ecology by providing ladder fuels, leading to greater incidence of crown fire in communities that are ill-adapted to crown fire. Given enough time, L. japonicum can completely dominate a native habitat causing the collapse of the natural community. It is the reproductive strategy of L. japonicum, or intragametophytic selfing, combined with the ease with which spores are wind dispersed which allows this fern to spread and proliferate rapidly. It has also been determined that L. japonicum is hardier than native species in low light environments allowing it to thrive and expand when natives cannot (Lott and Volin, 2001; and Munger, 2005). Munger (2005) reports that L. japonicum may also impact rare and threatened taxa. Recent studies indicate that that this species, in Florida, threatens the rare plant ray fern (Actinostachys pennula), as well as the endangered Georgia bully (Sideroxylon thornei), common dutchmanspipe (Aristolochia tomentosa), and branched tearthumb (Polygonum meisnerianum). L. japonicum also poses an unknown economic threat to the tourism industry through its degradation of natural resources in parks and natural areas (Lygodium Task Force, 2001). No Impact information recorded for Lygodium japonicum