Invasion success and impacts depend on different characteristics in non?native plants

Aim Biological invasions threaten biodiversity globally. Large-scale studies of non-native plant species invasiveness typically focus on identifying ecological differences between naturalized and invasive that account for their spread from sites initial establishment (i.e., invasion success). However, differ widely in the magnitude impacts, suggesting characteristics favour success might not necessarily predict consequences invasion. Here we test whether those factors increase probability also explain severity impacts. Location China. Methods We compiled a database invasiveness, biogeographic origins, life history traits, introduction 538 plants China modelled (a) species; (b) spatial extent invasion; and, (c) impacts among successful invaders. Results Invasion shared similar influencing factors. these clearly differed predictors severe Unintentionally introduced with shorter cycles longer residence times were more likely to become invade larger area, while taller Americas tended have native ecosystems Main Conclusions These results illustrate different roles history, biogeographical origin biological traits determining versus suggest associated evolutionary adaptation population expansion determine extent, related relative competitive ability Identifying specific distinguish invaders most result could help planning effective interventions.