Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) invasion affects millipedes and symphylans more than centipedes in an urban meadow

Plant invasions significantly alter soil food webs, differentially impacting various trophic groups in belowground communities. Myriapods (Myriapoda), a diverse group of soil arthropods, are integral to soil biodiversity and trophic networks.

This study investigated the impact of the invasive Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) on myriapod assemblages in a protected urban meadow in Budapest, Hungary, over two growing seasons. Comparisons were made between invaded and uninvaded (control) plots using taxonomic and trait‐based diversity indices to assess the effects of habitat alterations due to invasion.

Primary consumers (millipedes and symphylans) were more affected by goldenrod invasion than predators (centipedes). Invaded plots exhibited greater diversity and abundance of millipede assemblages, both taxonomically and functionally, compared to control plots. Symphylans showed a preference for invaded plots, although their abundance was significantly higher only in autumn and during the first year.

The species composition of millipedes and centipedes was strongly influenced by soil moisture. Furthermore, seasonality and habitat type were critical in shaping the taxonomic and trait composition of millipede assemblages. Polydesmus complanatus and the most abundant millipede species, Ophyiulus pilosus, were strongly associated with invaded habitats, while the geophilomorph centipede Pachymerium ferrugineum was linked to control plots.

These findings suggest that the effects of plant invasion vary between trophic groups. Primary consumers, having more direct interaction with the invasive plant, are more sensitive to changes in plant composition and vegetation structure. Despite the generally negative impacts of Solidago invasion, certain myriapod taxa appear to benefit, likely due to a positive plant–soil feedback mechanism.