Dogs Detect Invasive Plants With 75% Accuracy

A German feasibility study found that volunteer dog-handler teams can be trained to help detect invasive plants in the wild, potentially improving early monitoring of species that threaten biodiversity. Researchers trained 31 teams between 2021 and 2023 to identify three invasive plant groups; 12 completed field tests, and 11 passed, with an average detection success rate of 75%. The researchers say trained teams could complement conservation efforts, while future programs should refine volunteer selection, coordination, training and initial field deployments.