Invasive species cost the global economy over a trillion dollars each year. Find out how these non-native organisms are introduced into an ecosystem, how they impact local communities, and which measures can be taken to help prevent the introduction of invasive species.
Transcript
From microscopic to massive vertebrates, invasive species can jeopardize local economies, threaten human health, and even devastate entire ecosystems.
Invasive species are non-native organisms that cause considerable damage when introduced to a new area.
These species compete with native wildlife for resources and thrive at the expense of the local ecosystem.
The introduction of invasive species is often associated with human activity.
Boats that travel between different bodies of water can carry hitchhikers, such as the zebra mussel.
One of the most notorious invasive species in the United States, these rapidly reproducing mollusks clog pipes and overtake beaches in the Great Lakes.
Some invasive species, however, are introduced intentionally.
In the early 20th century, cane toads were brought to Australia as a form of pest control.
Today, these poisonous amphibians number in the millions and have caused a decline in native predators on the island.
And it’s not just animals – bacteria, fungi and plants can also become invasive.
Brought to South Africa in the 19th century, the black wattle is an invasive tree often used for timber and firewood.
Unfortunately, this beautiful tree and other thirsty invasives are depleting the country’s already record-low water supply.
Because of their impact on human health, ecosystems, and infrastructure, invasive species cost the global economy over a trillion dollars each year.
By carefully cleaning boats before transferring between different bodies of water, not releasing exotic pets into the wild, and planting gardens with native species, we can help prevent the spread of invasive species.
Every living thing has evolved to play a specialized role within their ecosystem.
In the ultimate balancing act, even one invasive species can drastically tilt the scales.
If we stay mindful of our role in the spread of these organisms, we can prevent invasions before it is too late.
