Diversity of Potentially Invasive Plants in Mount Padang, Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract

Invasive plants are species that reproduce rapidly and have the potential to threaten biodiversity by altering ecosystem structure and function. Mount Padang, a tourist destination in Padang City, West Sumatra, possesses high biodiversity and important ecological value, making it vulnerable to invasion by invasive plant species. This study aimed to inventory potentially invasive plant species occurring in Mount Padang and provide baseline information to support future conservation and management efforts. The study employed purposive sampling combined with area exploration along the Mount Padang trekking trail. Twenty plots measuring 2 × 2 m were established, and plant species found within the plots and along the observation trail were recorded and identified using A Guide Book to Invasive Alien Plant Species in Indonesia. Additional environmental parameters, including geographical coordinates, elevation, sunlight exposure, soil moisture, soil conditions, and conservation status based on the IUCN Red List, were also documented. The results recorded 39 potentially invasive plant species belonging to 22 families. Asteraceae was the dominant family, represented by 10 species, followed by Poaceae with 4 species. Nine species were categorized as Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List. The high abundance of invasive plants was associated with favorable environmental conditions, particularly open topography and high sunlight intensity, which facilitated their establishment and spread. The presence of invasive plants poses a significant threat to biodiversity by suppressing native plant populations, altering ecosystem processes, reducing habitat quality, and potentially affecting the tourism value of Mount Padang. Therefore, continuous monitoring and effective management strategies are necessary to mitigate the impacts of invasive plants and maintain ecological balance in Mount Padang.