Native plants in the U.S. are struggling to keep pace with climate change, and human-assisted relocation may be their only hope for survival. However, this process, known as “managed relocation,” carries risks similar to those posed by invasive species. A new study by ecologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, published in Global Change Biology, identifies key plant traits that can ensure successful relocation while minimizing ecological harm.
The study, led by graduate student Thomas Nuhfer and senior author Bethany Bradley, highlights the delicate balance between helping native plants establish in new areas and avoiding the unintended consequences of invasiveness. The researchers analyzed traits such as growth rate, seed dispersal methods, and toxicity, finding that some characteristics beneficial for establishment—like high metabolic rates—are shared by both invasive and native species. However, traits like large size or toxicity can lead to excessive spread and ecological disruption.
Bradley’s lab has previously shown that species need to shift their ranges by 3.25 kilometers annually to keep up with climate change. Without intervention, many native plants face extinction. Yet, overly cautious risk assessments could doom relocation efforts to failure.
“We know native species need to move, but we don’t want to repeat the mistakes of invasive species introductions,” says Nuhfer. Bradley adds, “Doing nothing might cause even greater harm. We need smarter strategies to ensure native plants thrive without becoming problematic.”
The study suggests refining risk assessments to focus on traits that cause harm rather than overly filtering for establishment success. By doing so, conservationists can better support native plants in adapting to climate change while safeguarding ecosystems. Future research will explore practical applications of these findings to guide relocation efforts.
Add comment