INVASIVE FLORA IN THE EASTERN PART OF THE NATURE PARK ŽUMBERAK – SAMOBORSKO GORJE

The invasive plant species spreading into those communities where they were not naturally widespread is considered a global problem, and studies have shown that it leads to distortions of biodiversity and the disappearance of some native species. Unlike the non-invasive flora, invasive species have not yet been systematically studied in the area of the Nature Park Žumberak – Samoborsko gorje. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the presence of invasive species and their representation in the flora of the eastern part of the protected area. The research was carried out using MTB 1/64 grid units. The determined species were analyzed with respect to their life form, the mechanism of seed dispersal and the type of land use where the individual taxa appear. As a result, a distribution map of the invasive species in the eastern part of the park was obtained. It represents the basis for the further monitoring planning of the population size of invasive species.