Photo credit: Zoe Quested. Original at https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/15069185
Invasive Species
Invasive species on Alderney
'Alien’, ‘non-native’ and ‘introduced’ are all terms that refer to species that have been introduced to an area outside of their natural range, often due to human activity. These introductions are rising sharply, due to increased trade, transport and travel. When an introduced species is seen to be causing damage to the environment, the economy or human health, they become known as invasive species.
Invasive species may be bigger, faster growing or more aggressive than native species. They may also have fewer natural predators to control numbers. Native species are often unable to compete and quickly the invasive species can take over. Thus, the survival of vulnerable species is put in jeopardy, and damage is done to sensitive ecosystems. The impact of invasive species is now considered to be one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity.
Invasive species do not only cause damage to the environment, but also to the economy, our health and lifestyles. In Britain alone, invasive species cost around £1.7 billion a year; and the problem only escalates as the species spread. In the UK some of the worst invasive species include Japanese Knotweed, Signal Crayfish and Grey Squirrels.
Find out more about the most harmful invasives on Alderney by clicking below.
