Biomorpholgy and Taxonomic Status of Adenocaulon adhaerescens Maxim. (Asteraceae), an Invasive Species in the Moscow Region

The results of the study of Adenocaulon adhaerescens Maxim., the only species which “escaped” from the Main Botanical Garden (MBG RAS, Moscow) and invaded the anthropogenically disturbed territories of the Moscow region, are summarized. The history of intentional introduction of the species and stages of formation of spontaneous invasive population are described. The characteristics of the plant communities and habitats of the species are given. Data on the population size, seed productivity in the native and the secondary ranges, and vegetative propagation of plants are given. The morphological characters at different stages of plant ontogenesis are described. A comparative analysis of morphometric characters of seeds, leaves, and inflorescences in the native and secondary ranges of the species has been performed. Molecular genetic analysis of A. adhaerescens samples from the native and secondary ranges and closely related species of the genus Adenocaulon has been performed. The analysis has confirmed the validity of recognition of A. adhaerescens as a separate species. Diagnostic features of A. adhaerescens are described. The results of management invasive population in MBG RAS are presented and recommendations on control measures of A. adhaerescens dispersal are given .