Constraints to native plant species establishment in coastal dune communities invaded by Carpobrotus edulis: Implications for restoration

Overall, the soil characteristics and activity of the microbial community tend to recover back to pre-invasion conditions in plots from which C. edulis is removed. In contrast, the establishment of native dune vegetation is constrained, as indicated by lower species diversity in restored compared to non-invaded areas. This is because regenerating dunes are occupied by opportunistic ruderal species that compete with native dune plants of conservation value and restrict their establishment.