Microstegium vimineum Habitat Suitability Analysis in the Kentuckiana Region Using Geographic Information System (GIS) Modeling

Abstract

abstract:Microstegium vimineum or stiltgrass is a novel invader widely considered one of the most significant threats to oak-hickory woodlands in the eastern United States. Due to the insubstantial weight and buoyancy of seeds, Microstegium can disperse not only via overland dispersal routes but also via sheet flow, flooding, and stream channels, creating rapid progression of existing populations and greater likelihood of introduction to new areas. Using the knowledge of Microstegium habitat from previous research and field mapping of current populations, we identified and assessed environmental variables for use in habitat suitability modeling. We found canopy openness, distance from roads, and distance from streams to be the primary drivers of Microstegium presence. We then applied a GIS-based habitat suitability analysis across seven nature reserves in Kentuckiana as a potential tool for land management. Our pilot study developed a model which can potentially guide managers of natural areas to decide where best to focus mitigation and prevention of potential Microstegium invasion and population expansion when resources are limited.