Definition of Invasive Species

Each ecosystem It is made up of a set of autochthonous species, that is, animals or plants that live in harmony in a given environment. However, when a species is introduced into a new ecosystem, it is very likely that an invasive effect will be generated.

In scientific terminology, an invasive species is called an alien species. This phenomenon has a planetary scope and can manifest itself in any type of habitat natural.

Invasive species without natural enemies can become very harmful pests

All ecosystems need to be stable. If for any reason an invasive species is introduced into a habitat, the Balance natural and the ecosystem is seriously threatened.

The zebra mussel is a species that originally comes from the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea, where its natural enemies make the population of these animals is stable. However, their larvae can adhere to ships and end up reaching other seas. When this occurs, an invasion occurs with potentially damaging effects on the new natural area.

Some beavers, for example the coypu, are native to South America, but have been introduced in different ecosystems of the continent European. This animal is harmful to the balance of the aquatic vegetation of the marshes since it avoids the development of the reed plant (this plant is essential for the protection of some birds migratory).

European colonizers introduced exotic species to the American continent. Thus, mice, hares and rabbits were introduced into some ecosystems and the consequences are still being suffered.

For example, the goats introduced on the island of Juan Fernández in Chile come from a European domestic breed that was introduced in the island in the 15th century with the purpose of feeding the sailors (these animals have altered the native vegetation of this place).

The examples mentioned remind us that any exotic animal without natural enemies can upset the balance of an ecosystem. In most circumstances, the introduction of a living being in a new habitat is done out of ignorance, sometimes intentionally and sometimes accidentally.

In any case, this conduct it is reckless and potentially very harmful.

Main consequences

The invasion phenomenon has diverse consequences, such as altering the environment, new mechanisms competition with autochthonous species or possible invasions of canalization infrastructures Water.

Basically, an ecological and economic disaster is generated. The damages of this phenomenon affect farms, crops, nature reserves or forestry activities.

Photo: Fotolia - goldika