Fadil Millaku, Bujar Kadriaj, Naim Berisha

First records of Rudbeckia hirta and Oenothera glazioviana in the flora of Kosovo

Abstract Two new alien species, Rudbeckia hirta and Oenothera glazioviana, were recorded for the first time in southeastern Kosovo along the banks of the Lepenci River. The localities, habitat types and population sizes of these species were studied. Twenty individuals of Rudbeckia hirta were found in a 50 m² area, indicating its early naturalisation. Oenothera glazioviana, Oenothera glazioviana, known for its high invasiveness, was recorded close to Rudbeckia hirta habitat. These findings suggest that the river acted as a pathway for the introduction of these alien species. Considering the invasive nature of Oenothera glazioviana, it threatens native biodiversity. This study highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and management strategies to reduce the impact of invasive species and protect natural habitats in Kosovo.

Doi https://doi.org/10.35513/Botlit.2024.3.2

Keywords alien flora, Balkans, floristics, habitat disturbance, plant naturalisation

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