Líffræðifélag Íslands - biologia.is
Líffræðiráðstefnan 2017

Erindi/veggspjald / Talk/poster E49

Distribution of cow parsley in Reykjavik

Höfundar / Authors: Mervi Luoma (1), Mariana Lucia Tamayo (corresponding author), Snorri Sigurðsson (corresponding author)

Starfsvettvangur / Affiliations: 1. Háskóli Íslands 2. Náttúruverndarsjóður Pálma Jónssonar

Kynnir / Presenter: Mervi Luoma

Purpose of the research is to map the distribution of cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), an invasive alien plant, within open areas of the City of Reykjavik. The aim is to identify hot spot areas with a high abundance of cow parsley. These areas have a high risk of losing native plant species due to the spread of cow parsley. Cow parsley is widely spread throughout Iceland, often creating monocultures that supplant other flora and can enhance soil erosion. It also changes landscape aesthetics. During the summer of 2017, areas with cow parsley were categorized in terms of the plant communities present, type of land, and other plant species that are found growing in the vicinity of cow parsley. The distribution and abundance of cow parsley was assessed in four plot areas; Laugarnes, Vatnsmýri, Elliðaárdalur, and Ægisíða. Preliminary results suggest that cow parsley is most abundant near riversides and streams in Elliðaárdalur and Vatnsmýri, and grasslands and pathways in Laugarnes. Lack of control measures enables further spreading of the plant species, and affects plant diversity. This research generates much needed information on the distribution and impact of cow parsley in the City of Reykjavík. Additionally, it provides baseline data to monitor future changes in distribution and species composition. Furthermore, this is the first time that cow parsley is mapped in the City of Reykjavik, which is essential for developing management and planning actions.