APES Unit 9.8 (Invasive Species)

Invasive species

Species not native to an area, often introduced by human transport
No natural predators to control pop.

Highly competitive (aggressive feeders or fast growers) for resources 

Can thrive in their non-native habitats

R-Selected Generalists

More likely to be invasive 

High biotic potential & low parental care

Highly adaptable 

Diverse habitat & food needs

How much does it cost to control invasives?

$120 billion/year

What do invasives cause?

Lost agricultural productivity, tourism, property value decline, fishery decline, control and removal costs

Control/Removal Methods for invasives

Laws preventing transport of invasives

Careful boat cleaning & inspection

Introduction of natural predator (biological control)

Physical removal