Invasive non-native plant species, often introduced through contaminated soil, are outcompeting native vegetation and affecting ecosystems. Our research on Meža River has shown a link between human-caused disturbance of the river channel and the spread of non-native invasive plant species. We found that mechanical interventions such as bank hardening and channel channelling create conditions that are favourable for non-native invasive species such as Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) to thrive. We analysed 13 river sections along Meža River from its source to its confluence with the Drava River, comparing areas with minimal human intervention with those with extensive morphological changes to the river ecosystem. Our findings in the field showed an increase in the abundance and diversity of invasive non-native plants in areas where the river banks are mechanically fortified. It is important that we reduce the scale and frequency of our interventions in the river and prioritise the conservation of natural river ecosystems.
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