Introduced alien animal and plant species pose a threat to biological diversity. Examples of widely distributed problem plants are the Glandular Balsam, Japanese Knotweed, Canada Goldenrod and the Giant Hogweed. These species were brought as ornamental plants from Asia and America, respectively. During the course of time they spread vigorously in Europe due to the lack of natural enemies that usually keep the populations down. Our native flora and even fauna can become locally extinct as a consequence of the aliens’ rapid growth and invasive distribution.
We try to keep the premises of Hotel Pfeiffermuehle clean from these alien plant species. Additionally, we organized a group of children summer 2006 who tracked down a patch of the noxious Giant Hogweed and eradicated it (see newspaper article, Allgäuer Zeitung from 28 August 2006). This activity required protective gear such as rubber gloves and goggles since the plant’s juice can cause severe blisters when touched.
