Question | Answer |
species introduced deliberately or accidentally from somewhere else | non-native species |
(released pets, livestock and game animals) - can spread disease, compete with native species | domestic/feral |
(out of control natives)- native species that benefit from our land use (disturbance) | Human commensal or subsidized |
species that spread subsequent to established usually at some cost | Invasive Species |
Invasive species can be introduced deliberately through: | naturalization societies, game animals, domestic animals |
Invasive species can be introduced accidentally through: | ballasts of ships, unprocessed wood, fruit shipments, by-pass natural barriers |
Intentional Release of Target Species into Containment: | escape from zoos, farmed species, aquaculture, research |
Intentional Release of Target Species into the Environment: | Plants for agriculture, forestry, soil improvements, birds/mammals for hunting, biological control |
Release of Non-Target Species (AKA “Accidental” Releases): | Hitchhikers coming into contact with produce, aquaculture, gardening, cars, planes, ballast in ships, tourists/luggage |
What are the consequences of biological invasions? | threaten biodiversity, costly, widespread |
New species introduced are so successful because: | escape from natural enemies, increased competitive ability, pre-adapted to disturbed environments |
Characteristics of invasive species | high abundance, small size, high reproductive potential, good competitors, social |
Stages of invasion | 1) opportunity/transport 2) establishment 3) spread |
What makes certain ecosystems more vulnerable? | disturbed habitats, human residential areas, islands, non diverse areas |
How do we reverse invasions? | prevention, detection, assessment |