Re-invasion pathway of beach naupaka Scaevola taccada (Goodeniaceae) after an eradication effort in Puerto Morelos, Mexico
This study examines the re-invasion of beach naupaka (Scaevola taccada) in restored coastal dunes of Puerto Morelos, Mexico. Four years after eradication, the invasive shrub covered 7.21% of the restored area and displaced native vegetation. Findings highlight the species' strong recovery capacity and the need for prevention and management measures.
Subject Tags
- Coastal
- Ecosystem management
Abstract
Beach naupaka (Scaevola taccada) is a shrub that competes and displaces native plants in coastal environments. We study its re-invasion after a total eradication effort in two plots (11,910 m2) of coastal dune in Puerto Morelos (Mexican Caribbean). The study area was part of a dune restoration effort conducted in 2020, which included the eradication effort of Scaevola taccada. After 40 and 50 months without intervention, we estimated the area covered by S. taccada using field observations and an orthomosaic based on drone images. In four years, the re-invaded area was 7.21% of the restored coastal dune. The percentage cover doubled in only 9 months (May 2024–February 2025) and the displacement of native plants was evident. Our results demonstrate the alarming re-establishment capacity of this plant. The hotel industry and municipal governments are urged to avoid its use in landscaping and hedging. Mexico should declare it an invasive coastal plant to prevent its production and spread.
Citation
Francisco-Ramos, V., Acosta-González, G., Valdez-Rodríguez, M.D. et al. Re-invasion pathway of beach naupaka Scaevola taccada (Goodeniaceae) after an eradication effort in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. Biol Invasions 28, 124 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-026-03840-4
TNC Authors
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Calina Zepeda-Centeno
The Nature Conservancy