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The Thorny Lantana (Lantana spinosa) is a fast-growing shrub that was introduced to the island of Viti Levu as an ornamental plant. It has since spread across the island, forming dense thickets that shade out native ground-layer plants. As a result, populations of native herbivorous insects that feed on those plants have declined sharply, and the insectivorous birds that prey on them are also disappearing. The Thorny Lantana also alters soil pH and increases the frequency of wildfires, further damaging native habitats.
Discuss why it is important to control invasive alien species such as Thorny Lantana in order to protect native biodiversity.