Plant height and lifespan predict range size in southern African grasses

Aim To understand the geographical distribution of grasses in sub-Saharan Africa with reference to key plant traits thought affect range size this family (Poaceae). Specifically, test hypotheses on importance height and lifespan determining invasion potential context their evolutionary history. Location Sub-Saharan Africa. Taxon Poaceae. Methods The sizes 757 grass species native southern were estimated for African region from geo-referenced herbarium records using alpha hull function. Phylogenetic generalised least squares models linear mixed effects fitted whether was related lifespan. Tribe-level relationships between assessed models. For introduced other continents, invasiveness size, Differences among four invasion-related categories Results Grass are larger taller shorter lifespans. relationship varies widely tribes, some range-restricted tribes having a non-significant effect height. Grasses lifespans more likely become invasive after being continents. continents have than those that not, increases along introduced-naturalised-invasive continuum. Main conclusions increased dispersal opportunities annual-biannual appear greater positive do longer generation times perennial grasses. has continues be an important driver biogeography, implications understanding spread certain over Miocene. Factors promote large also increase probability becoming invasive.