Abstract
Rapid evolution contributes to plant invasion success. Previous studies
have rarely considered the coevolution of multidimensional traits in
invasive plants. We compared multiple traits related to growth,
fecundity, and herbivore palatability of the widespread invader Spartina
alterniflora in its native (US) and introduced (China) families across
large geographic scales. Of 18 tested variables, ten revealed
genetic-based differences between native and introduced ranges, and nine
exhibited latitudinal clines within the introduced range. Introduced
families compared to natives exhibited superior syndromes with larger
growth, higher fecundity, and lower palatability, which were linked to
provenance climates and could enhance plant competitiveness and spread.
We conclude that within only 40 years since its introduction to China,
Spartina has evolved an integrated ecological strategy to enhance
invasiveness under climate selective pressure, making it the most
successful invader along China’s coast. Our study underscores the
importance of considering multivariate traits to understand plant
invasion success.