Can exotic pine trees assist in restoration

Invasive exotic woody species, including conifers escaped from plantations, are usually regarded as serious threats to native biodiversity. Becerra & Montenegro (Applied Vegetation Science, 16, 2013, 2) present an interesting example of invasive Pinus radiata facilitating native woody regeneration in semi-arid central Chile. However, the positive value of invasive conifers for restoration and conservation will not necessarily apply in all situations.