Hybridization and Plant Invasions.

Some historical events that have driven the evolution of new species include the movement of continents, topographical and climate changes, and long distance dispersal. Recently (within the last few centuries), we have seen acceleration in the movement of plants to new areas of the globe, mostly mediated by human transport and increased opportunities for establishment of introduced plants, created by alteration of habitats. These changes have led to an increase in the number of plant invasions globally, and many of these invasions involve hybrids of previously isolated plant species or lineages. Here I will discuss the implications of these hybrid events with respect to enhancing invasion, and how hybridization can force us to alter our methodology for controlling plant invasions.