Invasive Species

Ecosystem restoration

non-native species can also help preserve the ecosystem by restoring degraded land.

Manual control

As the name suggests, this method involves the use of manual activities, such as digging, and smothering.

Hybridization

Breeding between two different species creates hybridization.

Outcompeting native species

Competition among non-native species leads to displacement of the native species.

Diseases

Certain invasive species carry diseases or pests.

Climate change

Climate change can alter the population and distribution of various species in a habitat.

Loss of forest resources

Forest products affected by invasive species cost approximately $4.2 billion in damage annually.

Alterations in food webs

Invasive species generally grow fast and consume resources used by native species.

What benefit did the invasive species called Japanese white eye bring to the ie ie vine?

It helped in pollination.

Diseases 2

Many invasive species are harmful to human health.

Damage to property

Many invasive species cause severe damage to human property.

Food

Many native species, including humans, feed on non-native species. For instance, the Himalayan blackberry produces berries that are consumed by wild animals as well as people.

Habitat

Many non-native species provide habitats for native species.

Preying

One of the most negative impacts of invasive species is that some may feed on native species.

Monitoring

Prevention is better than cure.

Pollination

Seed pollination is necessary for plant growth.

Damage to maritime commerce

Some alien species are destroying fishing industries in new environments.

Changing environmental conditions

Some invasive species can change the environmental conditions in which they thrive.

Accidental escape

Some plant species are cultivated for ornamental purposes, while some animals are bred as pets.

Intentional release

Some species are intentionally released in an ecosystem.

Unintentional release

Some species may be unintentionally transported by ships.

Accidental transport

Sometimes, vehicles that transport commodities like crops, seafood, or wood are carriers of invasive species.

Cut-stump treatment

The cut-stump treatment involves applying pesticide to the outer layers of cut stems.

Control of Invasive Species

There are three main methods used for control of invasive species -- biological, mechanical, and chemical. Biological control is the intentional manipulation of natural enemies by humans for the purpose of controlling pests. Mechanical control includes mowing, hoeing, cultivation, and hand pulling. Chemical control is the use of herbicides.

Digging

This involves removing the plants from their roots. This prevents the plants from sprouting back. This method is suitable for small plants.

Prescribed fire

This method controls invasive plants by burning them.

Basal bark

This method involves applying herbicide to the bottom of the stem.

Biological control

This method involves introducing another species into the invaded environment.

Girdling

This method involves the removal of one entire strap of a target tree.

Smothering

This method involves the use of black plastic or other such materials to cover an invasive species for one growing season.

Chemical control

This method involves using chemical pesticides, such as herbicides or insecticides.

Mechanical control

This method involves using machines to control or destroy an invasive species.

Foliar spray

This method requires the application of pesticides directly to the leaves of the affected plants.

Mowing

This prevents the flowering of invasive plants.

Bundle and cut

This process involves cutting and bundling the stems, and then applying herbicide to the cut areas.

Loss of biodiversity

When invasive species alter the food chain, it results in a loss of biodiversity.

Pesticides are selected based on the target species, growth stage, and _________ conditions prevalent in a region.

environmental

Beneficial Invaders

go beyond agriculturally important species.

Impact on Humans

includes changes to biophysical environments

How does the salt cedar tree affect the soil?

increases soil salinity

Invasive species

introduced into new environments in various ways.