Invasive Species – Get Out and Stay Out!

One of the biggest problems associated with the introduction of invasive species into an area that they are not native to, is the fact that these species can negatively affect the biodiversity of the area. The problems involved in introducing invasive species are the reasons why border patrol agents ask travelers if they are carrying any fruits, meats, or animals that are not indigenous to the area. Invasive species typically grow fast, use up more resources, and quickly eliminate any native species that may try to compete with them.

The Domino Effect

By bringing a new species to an area, plant or animal, individuals run the risk of affecting the organisms that already depend on the land and resources of that area for survival. The dangers of this are so well known, they were once parodied in an episode of The Simpsons called “Bart, the mother.” In this episode, Bart inadvertently introduces a pair of bird eating tree lizards into the Springfield community. The lizards who have no natural predators in Springfield, begin to feed upon the city’s pigeons. While the pigeon population plummets, the population of lizards flourishes. In response to the growing number of lizards now living in the city, officials decide to introduce a species of snake to kill off the lizards. Officials in the city are also prepared for the eventual snake population explosion – with a proposed introduction of snake-eating gorillas to eliminate the snakes.

Keeping Out Invasive Plants
The eternal wisdom of The Simpsons illustrates the importance of keeping non-native species from invading an area and destroying its diversity. Here are a few things you can do to protect your community from these harmful invaders.

Know your plants. Do not buy plants that are clearly known to be invasive. Some communities are extremely fragile, and the introduction of an invasive species can put the inhabitants at great risk. Several organizations actually have lists of harmful invasive species of plants available on their web sites.

- Report nurseries that are clearly (and illegally) selling invasive species.
- Do not purchase seed mixtures. Many times, these mixtures may unknowing contain seeds for invasive species.

Aqueous plants are highly invasive. As such, it is best not to dispose of aquatic plants or water from an aquarium into local water sources. These aquatic invasive plants can flourish quickly, especially with the right conditions and plenty of nutrients. At the same time, do not use your neighbor’s yard or a local park as a site for disposing of unwanted plants and plant-based material. If your waste contains seeds or fruit, there is a chance that the invasive plant can establish itself in this new community.

Invasive Animal Species

The rules for invasive animal species are no different than the rules for invasive plants:

- Purchase animals from licensed dealers.
- Make sure the dealer has knowledge about the origin of the animal, as well proper and legal documentation, and knowledge of the animal’s health.

Like aquatic plants, aquarium fish should never be released into the wild. Some pet stores will gladly accept any animal that can no longer be cared-for by its owner as an alternative to simply letting it loose on society. Pets do not have to be from another country to become invasive. Allowing rabbits and cats to breed freely can have a dramatically negative effect on the other organisms in an area.