Invasive Alien Species (Down to Earth)

  • 01 Sep 2023

What is the News ?

Report on invasive species & their control to be approved at the plenary was developed over four years by 86 leading experts from 49 countries

Facts About:

An alien species is one that has been introduced outside its native habitat.

According to experts, these are whether intentionally or accidentally, find their way outside their natural environments.

  • Once there, they often outcompete local species, disrupting the delicate ecological balance.

These invasive species typically possess specific traits that aid their success, including the ability to adapt to new conditions (known as phenotypic plasticity).

  • Other characteristics include rapid reproduction, high dispersal capabilities, versatility in diet and environmental adaptation, and a propensity for quick reproduction.

It's crucial to note that invasive alien species are not a natural part of their new ecosystems, and their presence can lead to severe harm to the economy, the environment, and even human health.

In developing countries, where agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and natural systems play a pivotal role in people's livelihoods, invasive alien species exacerbate poverty and pose a significant threat to development.

  • This situation is further compounded by factors like climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and human-induced disturbances.