Despite many books on plant invasions, none has focused on the role of species interactions. This book is a comprehensive overview of how plant invasions are mediated by varied species interactions and how such invasions influence this important component of biodiversity which involves the interactions (the "glue") among a community's species. Besides highlighting relevant findings, the book digs deeply into new methodologies to understand species interactions in plant invasions and how this can improve management of invaded communities. The book covers:
- Main theories/hypotheses in plant invasion ecology that invoke species interactions
- Plant invasions promoted by mutualistic interactions and release from enemies
- Antagonistic interactions preventing or hindering plant invasions
- Consequences of plant invasions on native species interactions and ecosystem functioning
- The interaction network approach to understanding plant invasions
- Importance of considering species interactions in managing plant invasions
Future avenues of research are highlighted in a final chapter.