Any kind of living organism that is not native to an ecosystem & which causes harm. Species that grow & reproduce quickly & spread aggressively, with potential to cause harm, are classified as invasive species.
Lopa (nonnative Tree)
(Adenanthera pavonina)
The invasive Lopa tree was introduced from its native domain in South Asia and Malaya (A. Whistler, 2004). Now it’s widely spread throughout the Island of American Samoa. The Samoan people uses the Lopa seeds for weighing, consumption, jewelry/fashion designs and firewood's. Lopa is a fast-growing tree included in the Global compendium of weeds as a natural and agricultural weed. Once established, this invasive specie grows, forming dense thickets and competing aggressively with native vegetation. Lopa is considered to be the worst invasive to most countries like Jamaica, Australia and the rest of the Pacific islands.
What Harm Can the Lopa Tree Do to Our Native Trees and Environment?
The Lopa tree spreads aggressively by being a prolific seeder, which outcompetes the growth of native trees. Lopas are also nitrogen-fixed trees.
Similar to the invasive Tamaligi tree the Lopa seed can be stored beneath the soil for long periods of time. These soil seed banks can grow into new Lopa trees if the ground is being disturbed by natural disasters or agricultural use of the land. All of these factors make the soil less productive.
Why Should I Care?
Our native forest provide habitats and home to many native birds. No food source, no more native birds. Invasive species have a negative affect in the following areas: Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Recreation, Health and Economics.
What Can I Do to Help?
Here are six steps that you can take to help:
1. Learn how to distinguish native trees from non-native trees.
2. Learn more on ‘WHY” these invasive trees are a threat to the ecosystem.
3. STOP replanting the invasive trees
4. Remove invasive trees like Lopa,Tamaligi and other invasive plant.
5. Promote the planting of native plants.
6. Spread the word! Tell your family and friends!
Controlling/managing invasive species has prov-en to be successful in the allowing the regrowth of native species and greatly improves the health of the island’s biodiversity
Once the Lopa tree is removed, the native trees have access to sunlight once again and can recover quickly. New native species propagate, helping to block new Lopa tree growth in the future.
Additional Information
Contact information :
NPSA Office: 684-633-7082
Terrestrial (ext): 50 & 52
I&E (ext): 20, 21 & 22
Last updated: January 6, 2020
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Contact Info
Mailing Address:
National Park of American Samoa
MHJ Building, 2nd Floor
Pago Pago,
AS
96799
