Although it is often thought that nature is far from urban environments, in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires (AMBA), there are still five grassland reserves that preserve part of the original Pampean ecosystem.
However, the lack of conservation policies endangers the survival of these areas, favoring the expansion of invasive exotic species.
This phenomenon was analyzed by researchers Cecilia Molina and Mariana Ciavattini, from the Faculty of Agronomy of the UBA (FAUBA), who studied the flora composition in five green areas:
– Reserva Urbana de la Defensa El Palomar ‘Isla Verde’.
– Reserva Municipal Santa Catalina, in Lomas de Zamora.
– Paisaje Protegido de Interés Provincial Camino de las Flores, in Longchamps.
– Reserva Natural Laguna de San Vicente.
– Reserva Natural de Laferrere (without legislative protection).
## The study findings: increasing exotic species
The results, published in Ecología Austral, revealed that out of the 195 plant species recorded:
– 113 were native, representing the original ecosystem.
– 44 were exotic, with varying proportions depending on the reserve.
In smaller reserves like Santa Catalina and San Vicente, introduced species reached 35%, while in Laferrere and Camino de las Flores, the figure was from 14% to 18%.
Molina highlighted that more than 60% of exotic species were invasive, compromising grassland conservation.
## The importance of management and ecological restoration
The researchers emphasize the need to intervene in these spaces to reduce the impact of invasive species, implementing:
– Periodic maintenance through pruning and mechanical cutting.
– Revegetation with native flora, strengthening the ecosystem.
– Creation of biological corridors to connect reserves and promote the dispersion of native species.
“If it is possible to restore them, it is urgent that they receive attention with effective protection measures,” Molina stated.
## The role of the community and local governments in grassland protection
Despite the lack of management plans, some groups of neighbors have promoted community conservation initiatives.
“Citizen participation is key to keeping these ecosystems alive,” explained Ciavattini, who also urged governments to integrate these reserves into urban planning, designate them as protected areas, and promote environmental education programs.
The teachers emphasize that these ecosystems are strategic for climate regulation, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.
