Invasion mechanisms, control and utilization of alien plant species Bidens pilosa

Bidens pilosa is a highly destructive invasive plant species in the family Asteraceae. The invasion of B.pilosa has caused enormous losses in agriculture, forestry, and livestock industries. In this study, recent research on the invasion mechanism of B.pilosa was reviewed, including biological characteristics, plant-soil feedbacks, ecological effects of invasion, biological control, phytoremediation, and medicinal value. Research indicates that the fecundity, vagility, and environmental adaptability of this species caused it to rapidly expand after the initial invasion. The aqueous extract, leaf volatiles, and root secretions of B.pilosa can inhibit the germination of other plants’ seeds and cause damage to plants, such as cell rupture and structural variation. B.pilosa can regulate its growth and create a favorable environment through changing the microbial community structure, nitrogen and phosphorus content, and soil enzyme activity in root soil, helping to facilitate invasion. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can also improve the stomatal conductance and root branching status of B.pilosa , thereby improving drought resistance. Parasitic plants or vines can control the spread ofB.pilosa , and spraying chemical pesticides such as metsulfuron-methyl and glyphosate can be used for sterilization and prevention purposes. It is expected that a biological herbicide sourced from other plant allelochemicals will be developed in order to control B.pilosa in the future. Additional research on B.pilosa is important, as this species could potentially be used for medicinal and phytoremediation purposes.