Bogotá’s skies have turned smoky as wildfires rage across Colombia’s capital, and experts point to an unexpected culprit: invasive plant species acting as nature’s villains. 🌍🔥
Why Are These Plants So Flammable?
Foreign species like eucalyptus, pine, and gorse – imported decades ago for landscaping – now dominate the Andean mountains bordering Bogotá. These plants are packed with flammable oils and sap, turning them into fire accelerants. Biologist Arnold Garcia Samaca warns they 'help maintain fires for hours or even days,' creating a destructive cycle where flames help invasive species spread further. 😱
Climate Crisis Amplifies Risks
With El Niño bringing extreme heat and drought, over 17,000 hectares of Colombian land have burned in three months. The invasive plants thrive in these conditions, displacing native vegetation and creating tinderbox landscapes. 🔥🌱
As firefighters battle the flames, scientists urge reforestation with native species to break this dangerous cycle. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving environmental challenge!
