An invasive alien species is any organism that becomes established in a new environment, and then spreads in ways that is destructive to native ecosystems, human health, and ultimately human welfare. They are the second leading cause of global biodiversity loss and the first on islands.

Invasive          =          Grows and spreads rapidly.

Alien/Exotic    =         Brought into the area by people, either on purpose

                                    or by accident.  Not native.

These species can be introduced into an area through:

1. Intentional introduction for production in agriculture, aquaculture, landscaping and biological pest control.
2. Intentional introduction for use as a commodity where there is a possibility of escape such as in zoos and the pet trade.
3. Unintentional introduction through transportation of goods, trade and tourism in ballast water of ships, airplane wells, on the soles of shoes.

Characteristics of Invasive species

·                    Longevity

·                    Association with man

·                    Ability to reproduce asexually or rapidly

·                    Produces a large number of seeds/offspring

·                    Has a history of invasion in other countries

·                    Produces spines or grows in dense thickets

·                    Rapid growth

·                    Has a bad taste or is toxic to other organisms

·                    Grows in disturbed areas or infertile soil.

These characteristics allow invasive species to reproduce and spread rapidly or prevent predators from feeding on them, thus increasing their survival rate and reproduction potential.

Impact of invasive species

Islands, like The Bahamas are susceptible to invasions as due to their isolation from the mainland, native species are not adapted to protect themselves from aggressive predators, parasites and competitors. For example, the Bahama parrot a native species in Abaco nests in ground, a behavior that developed in the absence of mammal predators. With the introduction of species, such as, raccoons, pigs and cats, this ground nesting habit makes them and their young particularly vulnerable to predation. Invasive species often become established in disturbed or degraded habitats, out-competing native species as the area becomes recolonised.

Invasive species impact the natural environment by:

·                    Competing with native plants for soil, water and sun resulting in their loss

·                    Harming native wildlife food-supply and nest sites

·                    Competing with food crops

·                    Causing damage to beaches, power lines, roads and homes when they blow down during hurricanes

·                    Disrupting roads, sidewalks and foundations with roots

·                    Changing the physical properties of the environment such as depletion of ground water supplies.

Management of Alien Invasive Species

Prevention – steps can be taken at points of entry into a country prevent the introduction of potentially invasive species.

Early Detection and Response – If invasives are identified early steps can be taken to control them before they pose a problem.

Eradication – Once invasives have been identified eradication programs can be developed, these are often costly and require a long term commitment. Eradication programs are most successful on islands due to their isolation.

Control – this requires maintenance of programs to monitor and remove invasive species. The methods employed for control should be environmentally sensitive.

What can you do to help control the spread of invasive species?

·                    Ask for non-invasive species when buying plants.

·                    Remove invasives from your property

·                    Use native plants in your landscaping

·                    Ensure that your pets are spayed or neutered

·                    Do not release pets into the wild

·                    Learn about invasive species and native species. Contact the BEST Commission at www.best.bs

·                    Support the implementation of the National Invasive Species Strategy.