Invaders of the Lost Plant

Plant diversity is under unprecedented pressure. Many species have already been lost and more are under severe threat of extinction and this has serious and far-reaching environmental implications. Loss of diversity also diminishes the repertoire of vital and sustainable products provided by the plant kingdom including foods, medicines, materials, and fuel. This talk will explore the evolutionary and manmade drivers of plant diversity, and discuss the reason why that diversity is diminishing.

Dr Martyn Kurr is a marine biologist from Newcastle University, who specialises in invasive species. In this interactive talk, Martyn aims to change your perspectives on these much-maligned animals, plants, and algae. Martyn will explore the past, present, and future of non-natives in a series of surprising case-studies and unexpected revelations that will change the way you look at them forever.