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Tithonia

Tithonia speciosa

Photo by Sckel
Published on Project Noah
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-20.2558, -40.4448

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Comments (4)
RiekoS
Beautiful series. Very nice shot.
KateBraun
One of the main problems with invasive species is that they take over areas, pushing out the indigenous species. This is obviously far more important in areas where the natural vegetation is still in place, but when they move into disturbed areas, it's getting them closer and closer to the natural areas - so, it's all relative! Some invasive species have unexpected side-benefits, for example the wattle trees (Australian Acacias) which are now widespread in parts of Swaziland - these trees are good for firewood, which has the side benefit of the indigenous trees having more chance of surviving, because people can use the wattles instead.
Sckel
Thanks for your comment. It is considered invasive and harmful. But not as harmful as humans. I think exaggeration say that it is a plague. How it can threaten native species? I do not know what kind of issue this plant can bring. It depends on where It born, I suppose. I found this in an abandoned hillside, where urban growth has destroyed all vegetation. There were hundreds of Tithonia in this place, and it was beautiful to look at. It is annual, it is not always present, it appears and then disappears for a while. This species attracts a lot of butterfly that feed on nectar. That's enough for It not to be depreciated like the plague, if the plant grow in an area where there is little supply of food for insects due devestação by urban growth.
KateBraun
This species is a problem species in Swaziland, not native, and quite invasive.
Photographed
PublishedMay 25, 2014

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