Research on Spartina alterniflora using molecular biological techniques: an overview

Biological invasion is a global issue. Since the double helix structure of DNA molecule was discovered in 1953, more scientific studies have focused on the structure and function of biological macromolecules in invasive organisms using molecular biology techniques, which has contributed to our understanding of their competitive advantages and invasion mechanisms. As a coastal invasive species, there has been considerable interest in Spartina alterniflora. Here we summarise previous studies investigating S. alterniflora using molecular biological techniques from the individual, population and application perspectives. We hope this article will be helpful in future studies on and in the management and utilisation of S. alterniflora in wetlands.