The Distribution of Casuarinas on San Salvador Island, The Bahamas

This study investigates the distribution of Casuarinas, a noxious invasive plant species, on San Salvador Island, The Bahamas. The location of Casuarina individuals, clumps (4-20 individuals), and stands (>20 individuals) were mapped using a global positioning system. These locations were then compared to human settlement patterns. Casuarina distribution is strongly associated with human habitation. They had the highest abundance and the largest number of stands in the most populated areas, such as the western and northern regions of the island. They had the lowest abundance in the least populated areas, such as the eastern and southern regions of the island. The presence of individual Casuarinas and clumps of Casuarinas along roadsides in unpopulated regions suggests that they may be spreading without the aid of people into areas that are undeveloped. This migration is possibly occurring along roadways where favorable conditions (more light and less competition) may be providing footholds.