Climatic and anthropogenic factors affect Ailanthus altissima invasion in a Mediterranean region

Abstract Ailanthus altissima is an aggressive invasive tree worldwide, but the ecological factors that lead to spread of this species in Mediterranean ecosystems are still unclear. Here we aim identify such factors, focusing on interaction human activity with climatic conditions. We determined occurrence and abundance 240 sites studied their relationship 20 variables representing climatic, geographic, topographic as well land use, region Campania (southern Italy). Overall, found temperature rainfall suitable for , only major constraint being at altitude exceeding 900 m a.s.l.. unable where mean annual lower than 11.1 °C. By contrast, precipitation showed poor correlation distribution, suggesting selected study sustain growth tree. About use variables, roads were primary landscape feature along which invaded new areas. Roads probably combine high propagule pressure favorable growing conditions terms available resources i.e., light, water, mineral nutrients, allow establish roadside edges different ecosystems. In conclusion, climate human-associated correlated current more influential elevation road distance playing a prominent role low