Urgent Action Needed: Early Invasion of Scaevola taccada in Southeastern Brazil's Protected Coastal Area threatens a rare native species

The increasing presence of invasive species in biodiversity-rich areas is a critical conservation challenge, with the restinga ecosystems of southeastern Brazil facing particularly severe risks due to their abundance of endemic plant and animal species. This study emphasizes the early detection and assessment of Scaevola taccada , an Indo-Pacific invasive plant, within a protected reserve covering 3,309.63 hectares—including coastal restinga habitats. The uncontrolled spread of S. taccada threatens the native Scaevola plumieri by disrupting local vegetation and competing for essential resources, thus jeopardizing the ecological balance of these vulnerable environments. This research employs systematic field surveys and spatial mapping to quantify species distribution and emphasize the importance of controlling invasive species. Further ecological resilience is supported by chemical control methods aligned with national conservation guidelines, along with the continuous planting of native seedlings. The results underscore the importance of early detection and ongoing monitoring as crucial strategies for preventing invasive species from establishing or spreading. Effective eradication and restoration efforts not only help conserve S. plumieri but also protect the integrity of the restinga habitats. By documenting invasion patterns and assessing management effectiveness, this research provides practical insights for controlling invasive species in protected areas, while also highlighting the importance of integrating scientific research with active conservation efforts to address significant threats to global biodiversity.