Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2016

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Esiobu, Nwadiuto

Abstract

The Brazilian pepper tree (BP, Schinus terebinthifolius), introduced to the United States in the 1800s, has since become a category one invasive plant in Florida, aggressively spreading to 3000 km2 of prime habitat. There is a serious dearth of knowledge on whether the rhizobiome plays any roles in the displacement of native flora and the range expansion of BP. This thesis discusses the well-established plant invasion mechanisms of the BP and highlights key emerging mechanisms and gaps in (a) the current understanding of the molecular, below-ground processes of BP invasion and (b) studies on the potential role of microbial interactions in the success of BP invasion already established for other select invasive species, and the intervention of soil metagenomic studies to elucidate plant invasive mechanisms. These poorly studied mechanisms could further explain the aggressive spread and resilience of BP and contribute significantly to the development of effective and sustainable control measures, enabling appropriate strategies for restoring native plants.

Extent

45 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2016.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00004697

Format

pdf

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