Assessing the invasion risk of traded alien ferns using species distribution models

Risk analysis plays a crucial role in regulating and managing alien invasive species but can be time-consuming costly. Alternatively, combining invasion impact history with distribution models offers cost-effective time-efficient approach to assess risk identify for which comprehensive should take precedence. We conducted such an assessment six traded fern species, determining their countries where they are traded. Four of the ( Dicksonia antarctica , Dryopteris erythrosora Lygodium japonicum Phlebodium aureum ) showed limited global distributions, while Adiantum raddianum Sphaeropteris cooperi had broader distributions. A. however, was only found pose high two known trade – USA Australia requires complete determine appropriate regulatory responses. (for New Zealand), USA) posed medium due lack evidence impacts, is thus deemed less these countries. For other suitable environments were not predicted traded, low, required. no information or presence data available, assessments recommended better posed. Despite relatively potential studied ferns relative major plant invaders (e.g., Pinus spp. Acacia spp.), invasion, documented impacts pristine environments, propagule pressure from warrants concern, possibly necessitating legislative measures environmentally regions.