Biochar Rescues Native Trees in the Biodiversity Hotspot of Mauritius

Many tropical invasive species have allelopathic effects that contribute to their success in native plant communities. Pyrolyzed biomass (“biochar”) can sorb toxic compounds, including allelochemicals produced by plants, potentially reducing inhibitory on species. Strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum) is among the most important islands and recognized as serious threat global biodiversity hotspot of Mauritius. We investigated additions locally biochar tree a field experiment conducted areas invaded strawberry within Mauritius’ largest national park. Growth survivorship were monitored over 2.5 years plots subjected four treatments: non-weeded, weeded, weeded + 25 t/ha biochar, 50 biochar. Native growth strongly suppressed guava. Biochar treatments dramatically increased performance, with more than doubling growth, substantially diversity, while suppressing regeneration, consistent growth-promoting properties sorption allelochemicals. conclude biochars, “sustainable biochars” from accessible using low-tech pyrolysis systems, considerable potential counteract invaders increase capacity for regeneration island ecosystems.