Abstract ID: 3.8683 | Accepted as Poster | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve (MMFR), a recognized biodiversity hotspot in southern Malawi, is increasingly threatened by invasive species, notably Pteridium aquilinum (bracken fern). This research investigates the spread of P. aquilinum along the Likhubula River, a vital water source for the Blantyre Water Board, while assessing its ecological impacts within MMFR. The ecological significance of the region and the critical role of mountains in maintaining water security and biodiversity in southern Africa, highlights the need for effective invasive species management strategies. The study adopts a macroinvertebrate trait-based approach (TBA) to examine the implications of P. aquilinum invasion. Aerial drone mapping combined with stratified random sampling was employed to assess the distribution of P. aquilinum across three sections of the river: upstream (Chambe Basin), middle stream (Dziwe la Nkhalamba), and downstream (Chitakale Trading Centre). This innovative use of drone technology enabled detailed spatial mapping of P. aquilinum distribution, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of associated macroinvertebrate communities and key water quality parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), and temperature. Results indicated that the trait-based approach was ineffective due to the limited representation of macroinvertebrate taxa meeting the hypothesized traits. Statistical analyses revealed significant relationships between water quality variables and macroinvertebrate diversity, particularly notable inverse correlations between electrical conductivity and the Average Score Per Taxon (ASPT). These findings underscore the need to integrate ecological assessments into invasive species management frameworks, aiming to enhance aquatic ecosystem health and resilience in the face of invasive threats. The research raises critical questions regarding the effectiveness of existing management practices for invasive species in mountainous ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for adaptive management strategies informed by ecological data to tackle the pervasive challenges posed by P. aquilinum. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of further research to refine trait characterization frameworks, which could inform more effective management practices. This study provides essential insights into the dynamics of invasive species in mountain ecosystems, underscoring the relevance of such research for science, policy, and pract