Functional and phylogenetic similarities of co-occurring invaders affect the growth of an invasive forb

Abstract Expansion of global trade and acceleration climate change dramatically promote plant invasions. As a result, large number habitats harbor multiple invasive species. However, patterns interactions the drivers mediating their remain unclear. In this greenhouse, potted study, we tested impacts 18 species on growth target invader Erigeron canadensis which is dominant in central China. Neighboring belong to three functional groups (grass, forb legume) have different levels relatedness E. canadensis. canadensis’ strongly depended identity neighboring invaders. Some suppressed canadensis, others had no effect, while some promoted Through analyses phylogenetic similarities between invaders, showed that two factors probably play roles determining relative responses Generally, responded negatively grasses forbs, positively legumes. Furthermore, negative forbs increased with increasing distance neighbors contrast, positive legumes did not depend from Our results suggest successful invasion depends co-occurring Interactions other should help managers select management priorities.