Ricerc@Sapienza

Invasion of alien plant species (IAS) represents a serious environmental problem, particularly in Europe, where it mainly pertains to urban areas. Seed germination traits contribute to clarification of invasion dynamics. The objective of this research was to analyze how different light conditions (i.e., 12-hr light/12-hr darkness and continuous darkness) and temperature regimes (i.e., 15/6°C, 20/10°C and 30/20°C) trigger seed germination of Ailanthus altissima (AA), Phytolacca americana (PA) and Robinia pseudoacacia (RP).

The transition from a dormant to a germinating seed represents a crucial developmental switch in the life cycle of a plant. Subsequent transition from a germinating seed to an autotrophic organism also requires a robust and multi-layered control. Seed germination and seedling growth are multistep processes, involving both internal and external signals, which lead to a fine-tuning control network.

Invasive alien species (IAS) have been introduced
outside their native sites by humans and
becoming part of local flora. The IAS number is
strongly increased worldwide during the past two
centuries, redefining the classical biogeography
boundaries, affecting ecosystem functioning,
human health and economies. IAS represent
one of the main threats to biodiversity and
interconnected ecosystem services.
This work aimed to investigate thermal
requirements for seed germination of Ailanthus