A comprehensive study conducted by scientists from various universities has highlighted the growing threat posed by ornamental plants, specifically the genus Thunbergia, to Ecuador's forest ecosystems. This threat is particularly pronounced in the Andean region, where these plants have started to escape gardens and urban areas, invading natural habitats. The research, which is the first national assessment of the presence and distribution of these invasive species in Ecuador, was carried out by a team of researchers from Universidad Espíritu Santo, Tecnológica Indoamérica, Botanic Institute of Barcelona, and the National Institute of Biodiversity (Inabio).

The findings of the study reveal that the ornamental use of these plants has facilitated their spread beyond cultivated spaces into wild ecosystems, raising concerns about their ecological impacts. The study confirmed the presence of five introduced species of Thunbergia in Ecuador, all brought in for ornamental purposes. The public institution Inabio has communicated these findings, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and managing these invasive plants to protect the native biodiversity.

As invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native flora and altering habitat structures, the implications of this study are significant. It underscores the need for local and national authorities to take action in controlling these species to preserve Ecuador's rich biodiversity, particularly in unique and sensitive forest ecosystems, which are already under threat from other environmental challenges.