New records of Kallstroemia tribuloides (Mart.) Steud. (Zygophyllaceae) in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, after 136 years: a bioinvasion in progress?

Abstract

We report the occurrence of Kallstroemia tribuloides (Mart.) Steud. in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil after 136 years. Kallstroemia tribuloides is adapted to open, sunny environments with a preference for sandy soils, which are typical drylands (e.g., the Caatinga biome) and Restingas. This species has attributes that may favor its expansion into newly environments, and its bioinvasive potential should not be overlooked. Thus, we strongly recommend that further studies monitor the spread of K. tribuloides on the Brazilian southeast coast, which can help in its control.