What are invasive alien species? An

What are invasive alien species?
An Invasive alien species is an organism that is not indigenous/native to its environment. Invasive alien species can be a plant, animal or insect.
According to the Global Invasive Species Program (GISP):
“Invasive alien species (IAS) are non-native organisms that cause, or have the potential to cause, harm to the environment, economies, or human health. Invasive alien species (IAS) are one of the most significant drivers of environmental change worldwide.”
Since the 17th century, invasive alien species have contributed to nearly 40% of all animal extinctions for which the cause is known (CBD, 2006).
Most countries are grappling with complex and costly invasive species problems. For example, the annual environmental losses caused by introduced pests in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, India and Brazil have been calculated at over US$ 100 billion (CBD, 2006).
Australia is the continent most affected by invasive species. 90 species of invasive plants are capable of being sold in many places in Australia, while 210 species of exotic Aquarium fishes can be smuggled.
In England, invasive species consumes 2 billion per year, the native ecosystems could not regenerate when it was invaded by the invading species.
The penetration of these incredible creatures started from the sensitive, less stable ecosystems such as- estuaries, mudflats
- the inland water area- the small island regions- monoculture farming ecosystem- high mountains with native ecosystems
How to identify invasive species ?
Invasive species take over an entire area and eliminate biodiversity.
They can grow out of control.
They chase out our native species.
The result is a monoculture.
They have no natural predator.
Causes of invasive alien species
Globalization has resulted in greater trade, transport, travel and tourism, all of which can facilitate the introduction and spread of species that are not native to an area.
Purposely introduced
Aquarium Keepers
Imported nursery plants and soils
Gardeners
Hitchhikers on boat trailer
Are Spread By
Propagation
Shoes
Invasive Plant Species of Florida: Air Potato,
Cogon Grass, Coral Ardisia, Camphor tree,
Lantana, Boston Fern, and Torpedo Grass.
("Recognition Cards: Invasive and Non-native Plants You Should Know - Florida Invasive Plant Initiative in the Parks," 2007)
Cause Damage By:
Competing with Native Species
Bringing in Diseases
Destroying Natural Biodiversity
Eliminating Native Plants
Blocking Waterways and Driving Fish Away
Driving away wildlife dependent on native plants