Invasive Alien Flora on Coastal Mediterranean Habitats. Insights into Seed and Germination Physiology Under Saline Conditions

The Mediterranean Basin is one of the biodiversity mega-hotspots of biodiversity, but it is also considered as one of the most disturbed areas, due to a legendary human occupation, mostly concentrated in coastal areas. These factors, together with a mild climate, explain the high impact of invasive alien plants in the Mediterranean coastline. The habitats subjected to saline influence are especially interesting and have been widely studied as species living there have developed, along evolution, special adaptations that make them unique and very valuable. This study aims to present how alien plant species behave when becoming invasive in coastal habitats of the Mediterranean Basin. Some alien invasive species outstand for their specificity regarding the habitat and pose a major challenge for environmental managers. Coming to understand their behavior can help to mitigate their impact and prepare for future invasions. The document focuses on making a comprehensive characterization, with special emphasis on germination behavior of this flora, that has become one of the most important threats for biodiversity in the Mediterranean context.