Abstract

Primary succession on bare rocks is a challenge for invaders, including one of which was plants. The invasion of bare rock by exotic species raises the question of whether their presence hinders or facilitates succession. This study aimed to determine the role of exotic species in primary succession in six overburden (OB) coal mines using a chronosequence approach. Vegetation analysis was undertaken using line transects. Measurements were carried out on the absolute and relative coverage of each species. Native and exotic species were identified and grouped using information from local communities, identification books, and websites. The relationship between time and number of species, time, and relative dominance of exotic and native species was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation. Species number and dominance data were analyzed descriptively. The number of native species from the six OB heaps was higher (57) than that from exotic heaps (50). Neither the number of species nor the coverage showed a significant relationship with time. Exotic species predominated throughout the age of the embankment but tended to decrease over time. Temporary dominance by exotic species plays a role in assisting primary succession in the OB. This process might be prolonged without the temporary dominance of exotic species during early primary succession.