<p>Invasive weeds threaten biodiversity, agriculture, and livelihoods in East Africa, particularly <i>Prosopis juliflora</i>. Previous reviews inadequately synthesize mathematical modelling approaches and inconsistently evaluate control effectiveness. To synthesise mathematical models used to predict invasion dynamics and quantitatively assess the effectiveness of weed control strategies. A systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies (2018–2025) was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. 312 records screened, 67 studies met the inclusion criteria, requiring quantitative invasion models, clearly defined interventions, and measurable outcomes. Differential equation-based and spatially explicit models were most commonly applied. Integrated control strategies, especially biological mechanical combinations, achieved greater suppression, measured as proportional reduction in weed density and spread (mean effect size = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.64–0.87), than single-method approaches. The review suggests that future models should incorporate ecological feedback, spatial heterogeneity, and adaptive management to improve predictive accuracy and control outcomes.</p>

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Modelling the dynamics of Prosopis juliflora invasion in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis of mathematical approaches and control strategies

  • Joel Simon,
  • Mary Swai,
  • Linus Kisoma

摘要

Invasive weeds threaten biodiversity, agriculture, and livelihoods in East Africa, particularly Prosopis juliflora. Previous reviews inadequately synthesize mathematical modelling approaches and inconsistently evaluate control effectiveness. To synthesise mathematical models used to predict invasion dynamics and quantitatively assess the effectiveness of weed control strategies. A systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies (2018–2025) was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. 312 records screened, 67 studies met the inclusion criteria, requiring quantitative invasion models, clearly defined interventions, and measurable outcomes. Differential equation-based and spatially explicit models were most commonly applied. Integrated control strategies, especially biological mechanical combinations, achieved greater suppression, measured as proportional reduction in weed density and spread (mean effect size = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.64–0.87), than single-method approaches. The review suggests that future models should incorporate ecological feedback, spatial heterogeneity, and adaptive management to improve predictive accuracy and control outcomes.