Aggressive invasive species can rapidly cause degradation of natural habitats and the decline of native species. For example, umbrella flatsedge (Cyperus diandrus) is considered imperiled in Pennsylvania. It grows on shorelines of ponds, lakes and streams, and in bogs and marshes. By finding and reporting invasive species such as purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) that are known to inhabit similar places, you are aiding in the protection of this and other native rare plants that run the risk of being outcompeted by invasive species.
Preventing invasive populations from becoming established is the first line of defense in the conservation of native species that are rare and endangered. Armed with information about potential plant invaders, invasive species coordinators, land managers and citizen scientists can refine their invasive species survey priorities and be on the lookout for these emerging threats.
