🔥 Over the past week, Bogota has been wrapped in a smoky haze as forest fires rage on the eastern edges of the city. But what's fueling these intense blazes? Experts point to invasive plant species like eucalyptus, pine, and gorse that have made their home on the Andean Mountain Range bordering Bogota.
🌲 These foreign trees and shrubs are not just any plants—they're highly flammable! Packed with oils and saps, they act like natural fuel, making fires burn hotter and longer. Biologist Arnold Garcia Samaca from the National University of Colombia says they \"help maintain the fire for hours and even days.\" Talk about adding fuel to the fire! 🔥
🌱 What's more, these fires actually help these invasive plants spread. The flames assist their reproduction, allowing them to \"take over larger areas, displacing native vegetation.\" It's a vicious cycle that's changing the face of Bogota's natural landscape.
☀️ With El Niño bringing hot and dry conditions, Colombia has seen over 17,000 hectares devastated by fires in the past three months alone. The combination of weather and flammable foreign plants is proving to be a real challenge for the city and its residents.
💡 So, what's the takeaway? It's a stark reminder of how invasive species can impact local ecosystems, especially when mixed with extreme weather. Time to pay closer attention to what we're planting and how we manage our green spaces! 🌍🌿
Reference(s):
Invasive vegetation adds more fuel to Bogota fires in Colombia
cgtn.com
