An assessment of the invasiveness of Ipomoea quamoclit L. in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa

The invasion of indigenous environments by alien plant species is a major threat to global biodiversity and ecosystems. Ipomoea quamoclit, is a fast-growing vine native to Mexico and South America that is emerging as a potential terrestrial invader in South Africa. It was first reported in Durban, KwaZulu Natal in 1875. This study explores intensity and level of invasion by I. quamoclit in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve (VBR). The main objective was to map its current distribution and investigate the effect of temperature on its germination potential. Results revealed that I. quamoclit was present in twelve locations within the VBR, as determined by roadside survey. Additionally, germination experiments demonstrated that temperatures outside of the range of 20-40 degrees C reduced the germination rate of I. quamoclit, with the highest germination potential occurring at 25 and 30 degrees C. These results underscore the urgent need for comprehensive risk assessments and continuous monitoring of I. quamoclit’s presence in the VBR.