On 8/3/24, members of AYLUS Syosset participated in another invasive plant removal project with the members of AYLUS Dix Hills and Great Neck under the guidance of Michael Ahernb Assistant Director at the Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay. Members learned about the dangers of invasive species and worked to remove large amounts of porcelain berry vines. Removing invasive vines is important; Invasive vines can grow prolifically, dominating one area and taking over the native plants in that region (also called forming a monoculture). Porcelain berry can spread very easily through wide seed dispersal, which can also be facilitated by birds and insects. These vines grow in long, thick forms that take over a large section of the native plants’ root systems. Members worked hard to pull out the entirety of the vines, not only just cutting them down. Members then gathered these vines using rakes. Removing invasives is significant in the grander scheme of ecology as it is a practice that can help prevent a loss of biodiversity. Having a loss in biodiversity is damaging to our ecosystems as the other insects, birds and other flora and fauna all depend on each other.
Members that participated include: (everyone 2.5 hrs) Alyssa Huang, Suiwai Li, Suiying Li, Chris Xia, Anson Ye, Vincent Ye, Olivia Xu, Austin Xu, Jaden Huang, Isabella Huang.
