Two new 2024 studies explore the ecological impacts of the alien Chinese windmill palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) in the Southern European Alps. Started by Vincent Fehr during his PhD studies at Aarhus University, with contributions from supervisors Jens-Christian Svenning, Robert Buitenwerf and Swiss collaborators, the research sheds light on this species’ role in transforming ecosystems: 

Plant Community Impacts: Trachycarpus reduces native plant diversity in mesic–moist forests, particularly in herb and shrub layers, but has minimal effects in the more widespread mesic–dry forests. 

Read more in Applied Vegetation Science 

Arthropod & Decomposition Effects: Arthropod communities shift under Trachycarpus, with fewer herbivore species likely due to the low nutritional value of palm leaves. Dense palm stands also accelerate litter decomposition, likely by creating favorable microenvironments. 

Read more in Global Ecology and Conservation 

These findings highlight Trachycarpus’s role in #laurophyllisation and the importance of adaptive management for these evolving ecosystems. Laurophyllisation refers to the biome shift from temperate deciduous forests to evergreen broadleaved forests, driven by climate warming in synergy with biotic globalization and land-use changes. 

Collaborative research offering new insights into the dynamics of novel ecosystems!