Spatial modelling of invasive species distribution in water-limited environments using remotely sensed data and climatic scenarios in the Heuningnes catchment, South Africa

Abstract

The occurrence and spread of Invasive Alien Plants (IAPs) is a threat to global water resources and natural ecosystems due to high water use rates. With the current climate change projections and their ability to survive extreme environmental conditions, these species pose a huge threat to grazing resources, water availability and ecosystems in general. Routine monitoring and understanding their distribution and potential vulnerable areas is fundamental as it provides the requisite baseline information to guide clearing efforts and other related management and rehabilitation initiatives.