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100 of the World's Worst Invasive Alien Species: A Selection From the Global Invasive Species Database
... accessed on 8 November 2022. [43] India: Delhi 1 Clinical examination, ultrasound B scan, and fundus fluorescein angiography [42] India: Karnataka 1 History of raw monitor lizard meat consumption, clinical presentation, and EE in CSF + [64] India: Karnataka 1 Serum and CSF antibodies to A. cantonensis 31-kDa antigen positive and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) + [63] India: Karnataka 1 MRI findings, CSF examination, larvae in CSF wet mount + [44] India: Kerala 5 History of raw monitor lizard meat consumption, clinical presentation, and EE in CSF + [66] India: Kerala 10 History of raw monitor lizard meat consumption, clinical presentation, EE in CSF., larvae in CSF wet mount, MRI + [48] India: Kerala 3 EE in CSF and peripheral blood [62] India: Kerala 1 * Ophthalmological examination, EE in CSF, and microscopic examination of the worm retrieved from eye [36] India: Kerala 1 EE in CSF, real-time PCR for A. cantonensis [46] India: Maharashtra 1 Not mentioned [6] India: Maharashtra 2 History of raw slug consumption and EE in CSF [68] India: Maharashtra 2 EE in CSF and, peripheral blood ** [47] India: Maharashtra 1 Histological examination of brain tissue after autopsy [65] India: Madhya Pradesh 1 Slit lamp examination and anterior segment optical coherence topography (AS-OCT) [38] India: Madhya Pradesh 1 Slit lamp examination and microscopic examination of the worm retrieved from eye [39] India: Puducherry 1 History of raw monitor lizard meat consumption, clinical presentation, EE in CSF analysis + [67] India: Telangana 1 Computerized tomography (CT) scans, parietal craniotomy examination of the worm retrieved from cerebral abscess [69] India: West Bengal 1 Microscopic examination of the worm retrieved from eye [6] 6 ...
... Webster et al. [68] highlighted the One Health concept, which associates the health of human populations with that of both animals and the environment, with a focus on the transmission of zoonotic diseases. Zinsstag et al. [69] also reinforced the importance of the One Health concept, which they associate with the term One Medicine, which emphasizes the need for the integration and convergence of the health of all the species and the ecosystems they inhabit. Woldehanna and Zimicki [70] also pointed out the importance of identifying the relationship between human behavior and the probable infection routes, to ensure the development of effective preventive measures. ...
... Both intermediate (A. fulica) and definitive (R. rattus) hosts are non-native species to Ecuador and are considered among the 100 most important invasive species in the world, according to the World Conservation Union [69]. Invasive species in an ecosystem can affect biotic alter interactions, impacting the economy, the environment, or public and animal health [70,71]. ...
... Neotropical ampullariids include species from the genera Pomacea, Asolene, Felipponea, and Marisa [2]. Among these, Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck, 1822) is the most extensively studied species due to its high invasiveness and broad global distribution [4,5]. This species exhibits remarkable physiological plasticity, enabling it to cope with diverse environmental stressors, including pH fluctuations, prolonged droughts, and challenging environmental conditions [2]. ...
... Stresses 2025, 5,33 ...
Argentina is among the top consumers of herbicides, yet studies on their environmental
and health impact remain scarce. This work aimed to evaluate the effects
of herbicide exposure on Pomacea canaliculata as potential biomarkers of contamination.
Specifically, we investigated whether paraquat (Pq) and fluroxypyr (Fx) alter enzymatic
antioxidant defenses in tissues following acute exposure and induce histological modifications
in the digestive gland (DG), particularly in symbiotic corpuscles, after chronic
exposure. The nominal no-observed-effect concentration on lethality (NOECL) values
were 3.62 μg/g dry mass (DM) for Pq and 10.42 μg/g DM for Fx. After acute exposure,
superoxide dismutase activity decreased in the DG but increased in the kidney for both
herbicides. Catalase activity decreased in the gills but increased in the kidneys of exposed
snails, while glutathione-S-transferase activity increased in the DG and kidney after Pq
exposure. Following chronic exposure (Pq: 1.45 μg/g DM; Fx: 6.94 μg/g DM), epithelial
thickening and vacuolization were observed in Fx-exposed snails. Morphometric analysis
of the DG showed that Pq reduced the epithelial occupancy of the symbiont’s vegetative
form while increasing its cystic form. These findings indicate that both herbicides impact
antioxidant defenses, DG function and host–symbiont interactions, reinforcing the
suitability of P. canaliculata as bioindicator organisms.
... Throughout the world, mammals are the most destructive alien animals [12]. Some species have been domesticated and brought to Africa as farm animals; others have been introduced as highly valued game animals, while still others, like rodents, have been introduced accidentally. ...
... of numerous animals once common on islands [12,27]. In many of these islands, and in some places on the continent, the problem still continues. ...
The introduction of alien species may pose an enormous threat to indigenous flora and fauna. Among introduced animals, probably the most destructive to the natural environment are mammals. This is true at least in regard to the Afrotropical Region (sub-Saharan Africa). This review attempts to summarize our knowledge on alien mammals in this region and their impact on indigenous vertebrate fauna. This review includes 56 mammal species, belonging to 20 families, introduced to sub-Saharan Africa over the last 2000 years. Most are representatives of the following orders: Artiodactyla, Carnivora, and Primates. Most species introduced to sub-Saharan Africa originated from the Oriental (n = 20) and Palearctic (n = 19) regions. Two species, Mus musculus and Rattus rattus, were introduced before 1400 (probably as early as 800 AD), while three others were introduced between 1401 and 1700. The first half of the 17th century saw the highest number (n = 10) of introduced species. Between 1651 and 1850, only two species were introduced; in the following 175 years (1851–2025), as many as 24 species were introduced. Ten of the introduced mammal species, namely Sus scrofa, Capra hircus, Rattus rattus, R. norvegicus, Mus musculus, Felis catus, Canis familiaris, Viverricula indica, Urva auropunctata, and Maccaca fuscicularis, have become invasive species. A total of 39 mammal species were relocated (mainly for hunting purposes) within sub-Saharan Africa. Most of them were representatives of the family Bovidae (76.9%). Relocations are not considered introductions. Based on published records of the impacts of alien mammals on the vertebrate fauna of sub-Saharan Africa, the following mechanisms may be distinguished: predation, competition, hybridization, transmission of diseases and parasites, and habitat destruction (grazing, herbivory, browsing). Most vertebrate species (79.4%) were affected through direct predation, predation and habitat destruction (7.1%), or predation and competition (1.4%). Alien mammals have caused habitat destruction for only 10 species (7.1%). Other effects (competition and genetic pollution) were marginal (3.5%). At least 144 vertebrate species, representing 52 families, have been affected by alien mammals in sub-Saharan Africa: 3 amphibians, 23 reptiles, 89 birds, and 29 mammals. As a result of mammal introductions, 65 species in sub-Saharan Africa have become globally extinct, 45 are considered threatened (listed in the RDB), and 31 other species are in decline, although not included in the RDB. Most extinct birds were affected by introduced rats, mice, feral cats, and dogs. In continental Africa, only seven vertebrate species have been negatively affected by alien mammals. All other affected vertebrates occur on islands. An especially high rate of extinction has been recorded in the Mascarene Islands. In comparison with alien birds in sub-Saharan Africa, the number of introduced mammal species is much lower, but their negative impact on vertebrate fauna is significantly greater.
... Selain itu, bentuk tajuk tanaman duku yang lebat memberikan naungan yang cukup bagi gulma-gulma daun lebar, yang umumnya tahan terhadap kondisi naungan dan lebih menyukai kondisi yang teduh dan sejuk. Salah satu gulma daun lebar yang memiliki nilai SDR tertinggi adalah Clidemia hirta, yang dikenal karena sifatnya yang dapat menyebar dengan cepat dan lebih melimpah di luar daerah asalnya dibandingkan dengan habitat aslinya [8] . Fenomena ini mendukung teori bahwa tumbuhan invasif, seperti Clidemia hirta, memiliki senyawa biokimia yang berfungsi sebagai agen alelopati yang kuat, sehingga dapat menyebar dengan cepat dan mengalahkan spesies asli di habitat barunya [9] . ...
Gulma merupakan tumbuhan yang tumbuh tidak pada tempatnya dan kehadirannya tidak diinginkan karena dapat menurunkan hasil produksi karena gulma memiliki daya kompetisi yang tinggi dalam memperebutkan air, cahaya, unsur hara dan ruang tumbuh. Komposisi dan keanekaragaman gulma ikut menentukan struktur areal pertanaman yang pada akhirnya akan berpengaruh pada fungsi ekologis. Gulma dapat dijumpai pada semua areal pertanaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis keragaman jeni-jenis gulma dan menentukan jenis-jenis gulma dominan di areal pertanaman duku di Negeri Allang. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Negeri Allang Kabupaten Maluku Tengah pada Bulan April sampai Mei 2024 . Proses pengumpulan data dilapangan dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode kuadrat dengan petak sampel berukuran 1 m x 1 m dan diletakan dibawah tegakan tanaman duku Hasil penelitian menunjukan terrdapat 21 jenis gulma di areal pertanaman duku di Negeri Allang Kabupaten Maluku Tengah, Gulma clidemia hirta merupakan gulma dominan, dengan nilai SDR tertinggi sebesar (11.56%), dan dikuti oleh gulma Phegopteris connectilis (9.68%), Selaginela sinuosa (9.32%), Lygodium japonicum (7.80%), dan Ctenitis submerginalis (7.68%) Nephrolesis biseratta (6.28 %) dan gulma Lygodium vebustum (5.43%)
... This parasite was co-introduced to Europe with its host, the invasive signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus, and has caused a severe decline in the population of native A. pallipes. The spread of this parasite in European waters has been so severe that it has caused the local extinction of native crayfish populations, and it is considered one of the 'World's Worst Invasive Species' (Lowe et al. 2000). ...
Biological invasions have become a topic of concern due to their increasing occurrence and ecological and economic consequences. This chapter examines the stages, mechanisms and effects of biological invasions from a parasitological point of view, focusing on parasitic protists, microsporidians, fungi, oomycetes, helminths and arthropods. We present hypotheses and mechanisms underlying biological invasions of parasites and hosts, such as the enemy release hypothesis, spillover, spillback, disease acquisition and invasional meltdown. We illustrate these mechanisms and the effects of biological invasions on parasite–host interactions and native ecosystems with examples from aquatic environments. In terms of effects, we discuss direct competitive and consumer–resource interactions and indirect density- and trait-mediated effects by invasive parasites, ranging from the individual to the community and ecosystem level. We conclude the chapter with some remarks on management and mitigation aspects.
... To some extent, the 16 non-native fish species in the Yangtze River have demonstrated such invasiveness traits. Among them, Micropterus salmoides, Oreochromis mossambicus, Clarias batrachus, and Gambusia affinis are even listed included in IUCN's "100 of the World's Worst Invasive Alien Species" (Lowe et al. 2000). In large rivers in Southern China, Hypostomus sp. and C. gariepinus have established natural populations and are regarded as "successful invaders" (Gu et al. 2018). ...
The Yangtze River is China’s essential ecological resource and a historically revered “mother river” intimately tied to her ancient civilization. In recent years, the river has faced escalating threats from non-native fish species introduced by anthropogenic activities, including prayer animal release, aquaculture escapes, and deliberate pet abandonment. With a low current population density, these exotic species pose limited immediate ecological risks. However, the ecological damage will be catastrophic in the long run once they successfully establish large and stable populations and become invasive. To effectively address this challenge, comprehensive measures can be applied, including strengthening risk assessment, controlling reproduction and transmission, suppressing new introductions, improving regulations and policies, enhancing public education and prevention awareness, and strengthening multi-party cooperation. This study contributes new insights into the dynamics of invasive species in the Yangtze River and the broader implications for freshwater ecosystem management by reviewing current knowledge.
... This species is characterized by darkgreen to brown fronds, which can grow up to 2 m in length. In recent decades, intentional and unintentional dispersal of U. pinnatifida have led to its establishment in numerous countries (James et al. 2015;Epstein and Smale 2017), resulting in it being listed among the world's 100 worst invasive species (Lowe et al. 2000). However, U. pinnatifida is also commercially important, accounting for 8% of global annual algal production (FAO 2022). ...
Undaria pinnatifida is a large brown alga native to the northwest Pacific. It has been introduced to numerous countries and is listed among the world’s 100 worst invasive species. However, it is also edible and produces various bioactive compounds, making it commercially important. Despite its ecological and economic value, viruses of U. pinnatifida have recently begun to be characterized. In this study, a population-wide genome analysis was performed to investigate viral infection signatures in U. pinnatifida. A nearly complete 551-Kb giant endogenous viral element of a Nucleocytoviricota virus was identified on a pseudochromosome in the Korean strain genome Upin_Kr2015. This viral region contained viral hallmark genes and auxiliary metabolic genes, including kinases and GDP-mannose dehydrogenase. Additionally, we detected viral hallmark genes in all 43 whole-genome assemblies analyzed, with origins tracing to the orders Pandoravirales, Algavirales, or Imitevirales. These findings provide strong evidence of frequent U. pinnatifida infections by multiple Nucleocytoviricota viruses.
... Ulex europaeus, commonly known as gorse, is native to Western Europe and North Africa (Clements et al., 2001). Recognized as one of the world's 100 most invasive species (Lowe et al., 2000), it has established itself in over 15 countries (Clements et al., 2001;GISD, 2023). Gorse is particularly adept at thriving in disturbed environments, including grasslands, shrublands, forest edges, coastal areas, and neglected lands. ...
This study investigates the role of mutualistic interactions in facilitating the invasion of Ulex europaeus (Fabaceae) in the southern Brazilian highland grasslands. We assessed its reproductive phenology, floral resources, pollinator interactions, and seed dispersal mechanisms. Observations revealed that U. europaeus flowers predominantly during winter, with peak flowering occurring in August. During this period, no native species were in bloom, and Apis mellifera was the sole pollinator observed. Pollen analysis showed that honeybees carried U. europaeus pollen almost exclusively in winter, but diversified their loads in spring when other species began flowering. We also confirmed seed dispersal by native ant species, although grazing animals did not contribute to seed dispersal. Our findings suggest that the successful invasion of U. europaeus is enhanced by its interaction with A. mellifera, a species with which it co-evolved in its native range, despite limited interaction with native pollinators. Additionally, seed dispersal by native ants further contributes to its spread. These mutualistic relationships, especially with A. mellifera, play a significant role in the species' spread and dominance, potentially threatening local biodiversity. Understanding these ecological interactions is crucial for developing strategies to control the spread of U. europaeus and mitigate its impacts on native ecosystems.
... These genetic groups may cause substantial damage to a wide range of economically important crops by transmitting more than 100 pathogenic plant viruses (Jones, 2003;Hogenhout et al., 2008). Due to these characteristics, the whitefly, represented by these genotypes, is regarded as one of the most seriously invasive species worldwide according to the global invasive species database (Lowe et al., 2000). MED Q has been classified into three subgroups, Q1, Q2, and Q3, based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of the mtCOI gene (Gueguen et al., 2010). ...
The whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is a notorious insect pest that transmits plant pathogenic viruses to a wide range of economically important crops. An invasive genetic group of B. tabaci, Mediterranean Q2 (MED Q2), has recently spread to Europe, USA, and Asia. In the present study, we investigated the prevalence of MED Q2 in Japanese agricultural sites and found that its distribution has expanded since it was initially detected in 2013. A polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that all MED Q2 individuals were infected with Rickettsia. Rickettsia titers increased during nymphal development, presumably in response to the nutritional needs of the host. A fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed that Rickettsia was densely located near Portiera-containing bacteriocytes at all growth stages. Therefore, Rickettsia may play an important role, such as supplying nutrients to the host, in cooperation with Portiera. Transfer experiments indicated that MED Q2 was as effective a vector for Tomato yellow leaf curl virus as MED Q1 and, thus, is a high-risk agricultural pest. These results provide important insights into the biology and ecology of invasive MED Q2 to effectively control its spread and minimize its impact on crops.
... Cane toads (Rhinella marina) invaded northern Australia in 1935 (Easteal, 1981), and expanded across Queensland, New South Wales, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia (Atlas of Living Australia, 2024). Recognized as one of the world's top 100 worst invasive species (Lowe et al., 2000), cane toads spread rapidly (Shine et al., 2021) and have profound negative impacts on Australian native biodiversity (Shine, 2010). Notably, anurans, including cane toads, rely heavily on vocalizations for courtship, making them ideal candidates for detection via passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) (e.g., Pérez-Granados et al., 2023;Wood et al., 2023a). ...
Invasive species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity and ecosystem health, necessitating effective
monitoring tools for early detection and management. Here, we present the development and assessment of a
user-friendly and transferable monitoring tool for the invasive cane toad (Rhinella marina) using passive acoustic
monitoring (PAM) and machine learning algorithms. Leveraging a continental-scale PAM dataset (Australian
Acoustic Observatory), we trained a cane toad classifier using the BirdNET algorithm, a convolutional neural
network architecture capable of identifying acoustic events. We validated thousands of BirdNET predictions
across Australia, and our classifier achieved over 90 % accuracy even at many sites outside the areas from which
the training data were obtained. Additionally, because cane toads typically call for long periods, we significantly
enhanced detection accuracy by incorporating contextual information from time-series data, essentially checking
if other calls occurred around each detection (an optimized threshold approach using conditional inference
trees). This method substantially reduced false positives and improved overall performance in cane toad
detection at sites across Australia. Overall, our method will allow others to develop accurate and precise automated
acoustic monitoring tools tailored to their situation, with minimal training data, addressing the critical
need for accessible solutions in biodiversity monitoring, control of invasive species and conservation.
... It is reported that T. scripta has colonized all six continents, except Antarctica (Cadi and Joly 2004;Fritz et al. 2012;Lazell et al. 2007;Perez-Santigosa et al. 2008;Ramsay et al. 2007). The introduction of this species to areas outside its former range is recognized as one of the leading causes of native species declines (Drost et al. 2021) and as such, T. scripta has been listed as one of the world's worst invasive species (Lowe et al. 2000). ...
Biological invasions represent one of the main anthropogenic drivers of global change with a substantial impact on biodiversity. Traditional studies predict invasion risk based on the correlation between species’ distribution and environmental factors, with little attention to the potential contribution of physiological factors. In this study, we incorporated temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) and sex-ratio data into species distribution models (SDMs) to assess the current and future suitable habitats for the world’s worst invasive reptile species, the pond slider turtle (Trachemys scripta). First, occurrence records of T. scripta from online databases and published scientific literature were identified. Then, climatic variables representing current (1976–2013) and future (2060–2080) climate scenarios were extracted and combined with sex-ratio records to create hybrid-SDMs with which to assess the current and future suitable habitats for T. scripta. It was found that T. scripta has potential suitable habitat in 136 countries at present. Under the four climate change scenarios (ssp126, ssp245, ssp370 and ssp585) that were modeled, the distribution of T. scripta is predicted to decrease in 78–93 countries but increase in the northern hemisphere. This confirms that there is a greater likelihood that this species will increase in more developed countries. Incorporating the thermal dependence of sex ratio into hybrid-SDMs can be an important addition to detect the invasion risk of TSD species and to develop region-specific invasion management strategies to prevent and/or control invasive species such as T. scripta.
... Essas características permitem que as espécies invasoras se espalhem rapidamente e dominem novos habitats, muitas vezes em detrimento das espécies nativas (Catford et al., 2018). Além disso, uma vez estabelecidas, essas espécies podem ser extremamente difíceis de erradicar, tornando a prevenção e a detecção precoce as estratégias mais eficazes para mitigar seus impactos (Colautti et al., 2004;Lowe et al., 2000). ...
As espécies exóticas invasoras representam uma das principais ameaças à biodiversidade global, impactando ecossistemas, atividades econômicas e a saúde pública. Este artigo discute os mecanismos de introdução e dispersão dessas espécies, seus impactos ecológicos, econômicos e sociais, além das estratégias de manejo e controle empregadas globalmente. A invasão biológica pode resultar em extinções locais, competição por recursos, disseminação de doenças e degradação ambiental, afetando diretamente a estabilidade dos ecossistemas. Casos emblemáticos, como a píton-birmanesa nos Everglades, os hipopótamos na Colômbia e os javalis no Brasil, demonstram a gravidade do problema. Estratégias de erradicação, manejo e prevenção, como barreiras sanitárias, controle populacional e políticas de monitoramento, têm sido implementadas para mitigar os impactos dessas espécies. A abordagem integrada e a cooperação internacional são essenciais para minimizar os danos ambientais e socioeconômicos. Conclui-se que a gestão eficaz das espécies invasoras exige esforços contínuos e baseados em evidências científicas para preservar a biodiversidade e os serviços ecossistêmicos.
... Lantana camara L. camara is classified as an invasive alien species and is recognized as one of the top ten most problematic weeds in the world as well as one of the top 100 invasive species globally by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) (Lowe et al. 2000). The native plant communities and ecological features, such as population dynamics and community structure, are seriously threatened by the introduction of exotic non-native plant species (Mooney and Drake 2012). ...
L. camara is widely utilised in various traditional medicines and recognized for its ability to treat numerous modern ailments. This review investigates Lantana camara’s phytochemical constituents, emphasizing the secondary metabolites, such as alkaloids, glycosides, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, flavones, lignans, catechin, phenolic acids, iridoids, coumarins, tannins, triterpenes, phenyl ethanoid glycosides, carbohydrates, anthraquinones, anthraquinone glycosides, fatty acids and proteins which are attributed to its medicinal properties. The compositions of essential oil obtained from leaves, flowers and fruits of Lantana camara, has been investigated by GC and ¹³C NMR. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis of L. camara’s leaf essential oil revealed the composition of phytoconstituents as germacrene D (6.9%), (E)-β-caryophyllene (40.8%), α-humulene (21.2%), sabinene (9.0%), bicyclogermacrene (7.9%), α-pinene (4.4%), β-elemene (3.5%), linalool (0.4–1.9%), sesquithuriferol (0.3–1.7%), spathulenol (0.2–1.5%), (E)-nerolidol and τ-cadinol (0.0–1.0%). Currently, L. camara is being utilized for its antibacterial, antiseptic, anticancer, anthelminthic, antiurolithic, nematocidal, antidiabetic, anti- inflammatory, antimalarial, cytotoxic, antifungal, antiviral, hepatoprotective properties possessed by the essential oil of its leaves, berries, roots, stems, flowers. It is also utilized in various modern techniques, such as the phytoextraction of heavy metals and phyto-remediation of particulate pollution. We also explored its invasive and allelopathic effects and how the complex of lantadenes causes photosensitization and intrahepatic cholestasis in small ruminants, which are linked to specific types and quantities of triterpene ester metabolites.
... The khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), is a major quarantine insect species of stored products that infests more than 100 different commodities and substrates, ranging from grains to milk powder. [1][2][3][4][5][6] Apart from its wide food preferences, this species can develop at temperatures that exceed 35°C, which is considered unsuitable for other major stored product insect species with which they might directly compete. 7,8 Nevertheless, even when T. granarium is simultaneously present with other stored product insect species on the same commodity, it can easily dominate, provided that the prevailing conditions, especially temperature, are suitable. ...
BACKGROUND
The khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium, is a serious pest of stored grains that infests more than 100 different commodities. The current wall trap used for monitoring is optimized for the behavior of khapra beetles. In this study, we tested existing and modified trap designs for Trogoderma after release of T. granarium exclusively. The work aimed to evaluate trap efficacy, while providing a template for further attract‐and‐kill research. Three bioassays were conducted in nine rooms. Four traps were evaluated: dome, wall, modified wall, and the Wilkins interception trap.
RESULTS
Based on our results, dome traps collected significantly more individuals compared to the other traps, whereas the modified wall and Wilkins traps collected significantly fewer individuals compared to the dome trap. Regarding progeny production, the highest number of individuals was found from a release distance of 0.1 m. The highest number of individuals was captured at 0.1 m.
CONCLUSIONS
The most effective trap was the dome trap. The plume reach and distance from the trap/attractant source is an important parameter that can affect trapping efficacy in monitoring programs. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
... Many of these publications aim to assist nations, environmental organisations, and environmentally conscious people with mitigating the potential risks that exotic invasive species pose to world biodiversity [53]. The organisation also developed the world's 100 worst invasive species lists [95] and developed a relationship between red lists and IAS to analyse the links between invasion and extinction [96]. The organisation also maintains and develops links and cooperative programmes with the UNEP, 14 FAO, 15 Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE), WTO, CITES, and CBD for sustainable invasive species governance. ...
Sustainability and sustainable development have become overarching global policy objectives enshrined in international and national environmental treaties and legal instruments. The United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and World Summit on Sustainable Development advocate for economically sustainable development with minimal environmental degradation. The contemporary practices of Invasive Plant Species (IPS) governance for biodiversity conservation encompass the integration of social, economic, and environmental aspects, as well as the active engagement of local communities. Effective governance of IPS and biodiversity in forest-protected areas (FPAs) at a global scale necessitates the active participation of local communities. This systematic review examines and assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the international legal systems concerning invasive species (IS) and biodiversity. This research also evaluates how the national and local governments of world nations could have improved upon and implemented these frameworks in their legislative frameworks. To achieve these aims, this chapter provides a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of international guidelines and legal and institutional frameworks using qualitative research methods. However, the implementation challenges of hard law instruments and the non-binding nature of soft law instruments reveal the inadequacy of international legislative frameworks to ensure sustainable IPS and biodiversity governance.
... The little fire ant, Wasmannia auropunctata, is an invasive tramp ant that has been listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive species due to its serious impacts on native biodiversity and human health (Lowe et al., 2000). Wasmannia auropunctata is a tiny ant (workers ranging from 1.0 mm -1.5 mm) originating from Central and South America, that has been introduced to numerous tropical and subtropical regions worldwide through human-mediated dispersal. ...
The little fire ant, Wasmannia auropunctata, is an invasive tramp ant that causes damage on a global scale. Recently, this notorious ant species was first reported in Taiwan in 2021. This is considered the first confirmed case in the East Asian region. Colonies of W. auropunctata were found at two locations, i.e., Wuri and Heping districts in central Taiwan, which are separated by approximately 30 km. Both genetic and behavioral analyses revealed that the two populations were most likely introduced from a common source population, and form a unicolonial social structure. Furthermore, a microsatellite analysis showed that W. auropunctata populations in Taiwan also employ clonal reproduction. Because of its highly aggressive nature, we highlight the potential threats this invasive ant species poses to arthropod communities, agricultural systems and human health in this region, based on several field observations. A food lure method using potato chips was adopted to detect the presence of W. auropunctata. Since September 2021, the monitoring and chemical control of W. auropunctata populations have been addressed through a university-government partership. The eradication program included both ground and arboreal treatments. Ground treatments involved mixing granular baits containing pyriproxyfen (0.50w/w%) with granular baits containing hydramethylnon (0.73w/w%) at a ratio of 4:1, and then broadcasting the mixture onto the ground at an application rate of 2.5 kg/ha. Arboreal treatments involved spraying paste baits containing borax (2w/w%) at an application rate of 10 L/ha over tree trunks and vegetation.
... Besides these, the wild boar is particularly known due to its association with damage to agriculture [4,5], road accidents [6,7] and the invasion of cities [8]. The problem related to wild boars is currently associated with their population explosion [9,10], since they are considered one of the most invasive species on the planet after humans [11,12]. The species Sus scrofa present in the Palearctic Region has also spread over time in the Italian peninsula. ...
The growing population of wild boars (Sus scrofa) in all highly anthropized countries represents a current challenge for the protection of ecosystems, agriculture and urban environments. This study introduces an innovative capture solution based on IoT systems designed to enable the selective capture of sub-adult wild boars in an ethical manner and minimize stress and bycatch. Conducted over five years in a Natura 2000 area in Campania, Italy, the research integrates advanced technologies, including AI-based infrared cameras, LoRa communication and autonomous feeding systems, to monitor, control and operate a specially designed selective cage trap. The results obtained demonstrate how technological innovation improves wildlife and hunting management by selecting younger animals without interfering with group dynamics. Selective capture ensures healthy population control, does not conflict with hunting and reduces pressure on habitats, especially if these fall within areas of particular importance for European biodiversity.
... These include several countries in America (United States, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago) and Asia (China, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore, Laos, Borneo and Papua-New Guinea) and also Israel, Iraq and Kenya (Seuffert & Martín, 2024). This species has been listed as one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world by IUCN (Lowe et al., 2000). It causes diverse ecological impacts in natural wetlands, altering aquatic vegetation, invertebrate communities and ecosystem functioning (Horgan et al., 2014;Carlsson, 2017;Martín et al., 2019), and also causes serious damage to aquatic crops like rice (Horgan, 2018), being the gastropod that provokes the highest economic loses in the world (Jiang et al., 2022). ...
... The native range of many reptile species is often limited, making smaller populations particularly vulnerable to environmental pressures (Böhm et al., 2013). In contrast, certain introduced reptile species have become highly disruptive invasive species, such as the brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) and the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) (Lowe, Browne, Boudjelas, and De Poorter, 2000;Kraus, 2015;Nordstrom, Mitchell, Byrne, and Jarman, 2022). The use of eDNA tools could significantly enhance monitoring efforts for reptile distributions and population trends. ...
Environmental DNA from water samples (aquatic eDNA) is a noninvasive, cost-effective and high-throughput tool to conduct biodiversity assessment of both hydrobionts and terrestrial organisms that live nearby or frequently come into contact with a waterbody. Due to the exceptional importance of vertebrates in biomonitoring, a wide range of vertebrate taxonomic groups have been studied in recent years in various ecosystems using aquatic eDNA assays, including endangered, rare, secretive and elusive species that are often missed by traditional survey methods. Given that the potential uses of eDNA vary among different vertebrate groups, in this article we provide an overview of the use of aquatic eDNA for monitoring fish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and birds in small and large, marine and fresh water bodies from the tropics to the Arctic. We discuss the main applications of aquatic eDNA for single species detection, biodiversity assessment, genetic characterization, and biomass estimation.
... Introduction species has been included in the list of top 100 most invasive alien species of the world [2], and it is a major threat to forest or native plants and agricultural and horticultural crops. This species is spread in the tropical and subtropical region of the world [3]. ...
Rajasthan is the largest state in India with 50 districts. Out of these, nine districts namely Banswara, Chittorgarh, Dungarpur, Pali, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Sirohi, Salumber and Udaipur are included in the special tribal area called “Scheduled Area”. It is the most backward, uneducated, underdeveloped and deprived area where >70% of the tribal people live. These people are economically dependent on forest
produce, agricultural and horticultural crops and animal husbandry. Many of these people suffer from many types of infectious and non-infectious diseases. Dracunculiasis, a disease caused by infection with the human nematode parasite Dracunculus-worm (Dracunculus medinensis), was also very prevalent in
the region a few decades ago. Though the disease has now been eradicated from the country, it has been replaced by a new threat, the fluoride-induced health problem called fluorosis disease, which is very prevalent in the scheduled area. In recent years, another threat has also emerged in the region and that is the “Giant African Land Snail Species (Achatina fulica)” which is highly invasive, voracious, and a pest to forest biodiversity or native plants, agricultural and horticultural crops and disrupts the livelihood of the tribals. Earlier this species was restricted to Udaipur city of Rajasthan (India). Now this species is rapidly spreading and flourishing in the villages, forests, and agricultural fields of the scheduled area around this city as this exotic species of snails has developed tremendous reproductive capacity, due to which it increases its population rapidly in a short period of time. If this species continues to spread and flourish in the scheduled area, then in the coming few years it will become another big threat to the tribals. Because this species rapidly destroys the forest vegetation/plants and agricultural and horticultural crops on which the tribal people depend on economics and food. Hence, before this problem becomes more serious and uncontrolled, the tribal, agriculture, horticulture and forest departments of the state and central governments need to be alert. The main purpose of the present editorial is to draw the attention of these departments concerned towards this problem and its solution.
... Amongst them is one of the most alarming recent additions to the list of invasive alien ants: Wasmannia auropunctata (Roger, 1863), widely known as the little fire ant. The species has been noted to be amongst the 100 World's Worst Invasive Alien Species (Lowe et al. 2000), in view of the serious ecological and economic impacts. Native to the Neotropics, the natural range of W. auropunctata includes parts of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean (Wetterer 2013), but it has also established exotic populations in places such as the Galapagos Islands, West Africa, the Pacific Islands, and Florida (Causton et al. 2005;Wetterer 2013). ...
The little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata), notable for its minute size and painful sting, has emerged as a significant threat in Mediterranean Europe. This widespread exotic species is well-known because of its invasive nature, impacting biodiversity, public health, and economic activities. Noted for the first time in Málaga (S Spain) in 2018, it has since expanded to other locations in the same province. Here we report the presence of W. auropunctata in La Marina (Alacant province, SE Spain), representing the fifth recorded population on the Iberian Peninsula and the first occurrence outside Málaga province. The species was found infesting a coastal area of approximately 5.1 hectares, with workers being observed in foraging trails across multiple surfaces and living in dense concentrations both indoors and outdoors. Exclusion of native ant species within the occupied area and direct engagement in combat with other species was observed. The population was discovered in September 2024; however, based on infestation density, spatial extent, and comparison with data of other Mediterranean exotic populations, the species likely established in the region prior to 2019. For the first time in Iberia, W. auropunctata was also detected in the coastal dunes adjacent to the infested urbanised area, highlighting its potential adaptability to dry Mediterranean habitats. The resilience of W. auropunctata, combined with its aggressive invasive traits and propensity to sting, underscores the urgent need for integrated management strategies to limit further expansion of the species in Iberia.
... The second contends that LTM remain abundant in Indonesia and, in some cases, even pose a pest problem (Sulistyadi et al. 2021). In 2000, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the LTM as an invasive species, noting its introduction to several areas where its population had grown rapidly (Lowe et al. 2000). The combination of high population density and the remarkable adaptability of LTM contributes to frequent human-macaque interactions and potential conflicts (Tsuji and Ilham 2021;Zhao et al. 2023). ...
Hasibuan MM, Tohir RK, Munawaroh K, Maryanto I, Maharadatunkamsi, Lubis AM, Rahmandani F, Irhamuddin, Sujadi, Gunarto E, Rafsanjani YH. 2025. Current status of long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) on small islands in the Southern Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 26: 971-980. The global population status of the Long-Tailed Macaque (LTM/Macaca fascicularis) was recently reassessed, resulting in its reclassification from Vulnerable to Endangered due to an estimated population decline of approximately 40% over the past three generations. To better understand and validate its updated IUCN status, we conducted a population study on Tabuan, Legundi, and Umang-umang Islands in Lampung Province, located in the southern region of Sumatra, Indonesia. On the other hand, management challenges arise due to its current International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) status, even though it is locally regarded as a pest by the local population. To establish effective and sustainable manageme nt strategies, updated population data is crucial, particularly in regions with limited information. This research aimed to address the need for population status data in Sumatra. As part of a broader study focusing on the distribution of M. fascicularis in Sumatra, this study specifically targets the understudied small islands located in the southern region of Sumatra Island. The research was conducted from April 25 to May 4, 2024, on three islands within Lampung Province: Tabuan, Legundi, and Umang-umang Islands. Data were collected using the transect method, covering a total distance of 43.42 km. The findings revealed an estimated total population of approximately 9,948 M. fascicularis individuals, distributed as follows: 6,523 on Tabuan Island, 3,415 on Legundi Island, and a single group of around 10 individuals on Umang-umang Island. These findings provide insights into previously underrecognized and underpublicized populations of LTM in Southern Sumatra, elucidate the potential for colonization of new territories by LTM on the surveyed islands, and underscore conflicts with local communities in specific areas. Therefore, it is imperative to intensify management efforts to improve habitat conditions, mitigate conflicts, and enhance the overall success of LTM conservation and management strategies.
... T. scripta elegans is an omnivorous species with an extensive ecological tolerance (Willmore and Storey 2005) and strong invasive potential (Burke et al. 1995). Due to those peculiarities, it is listed as one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world (Lowe et al. 2000). In fact, this species of turtle is distributed all around the world, especially in Asia and Europe (Ma and Shi 2017). ...
Pond sliders (Trachemys scripta) is a common pet and invasive species in many countries. Its ability to thrive and reproduce in Mediterranean climates necessitates population control to prevent overpopulation. Ovariectomy is considered as a preventive strategy to limit reproduction and protect local biodiversity. This study compares two spaying techniques in Trachemys scripta: electrosurgery using the EnSeal® tissue sealer (group E) and a conventional approach with manual ligation of blood vessels (group C). Statistical tests evaluated procedural differences, including ANOVA for duration (factoring in follicular stage, surgery type, and their interaction) and Chi-squared tests for the likelihood of single surgical access via the prefemoral fossa and post-surgical feeding. Pearson’s Chi-squared test with Yates’ correction was used to assess complications by surgery type and follicular stage. ANOVA assessed the effect of follicular stage on surgery time, with follicles classified as Class I (n = 17), Class II (n = 12), and Class III (n = 7). Both follicular stage and surgery type significantly impacted surgery time, while their interaction was not significant, indicating independent effects. The likelihood of single-access procedures was significantly linked to surgery type, with EnSeal® procedures being faster and associated with earlier post-surgical feeding. Complications were not significantly linked to surgery type or follicular stage.
... Knotweed invasion seriously threatens the biodiversity and integrity of native ecosystems (Stoll et al. 2012, Mincheva et al. 2014, which causes substantial economic damage (Reinhardt et al. 2003). As a major environmental threat in Europe and North America, Japanese knotweed is listed among the 100 world's worst invasive alien species by IUCN (Lowe et al. 2000). ...
While successful plant invasions often occur in novel environments, invasive species usually occupy broad niches within their native and introduced ranges. A better understanding of the process of invasion therefore requires a wide sampling of ranges, and a good knowledge of introduction history. We tested for differentiation in herbivore resistance among 128 introduced (European, North American) and native (Chinese, Japanese) populations of the invasive Japanese knotweed Reynoutria japonica in two common gardens in the native range: one in Shanghai and the other in Yunnan. In both common gardens, we found that herbivore resistance of plants from introduced populations differed from that from native populations in China but not from native populations in Japan, the putative source of introduction. Compared to native Chinese populations, plants from native Japanese populations and introduced European and North American populations had thicker leaves in both common gardens, and a lower C:N ratio but higher flavonoids content in the Shanghai garden. Variation in herbivore resistance was more strongly associated with climate of collecting sites for populations from the native range than for those from introduced ranges. Our results support the hypothesis that introduction of particularly resistant plants from Japan may have played a key role in driving biogeographic variation in herbivore resistance. Our study highlights the importance of understanding introduction history to interpret the biogeographic divergence of global plant invaders.
... A major pest of paddy, maize, millet, barley, wheat, sorghum, and other cereals is Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) (Deshwal et al., 2020). Among the 100 most dangerous invasive species worldwide is Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) (Lowe et al., 2000). It affects various stored products (Kavallieratos et al., 2017;EPPO, 2025), while it is also dangerous for public health, causing allergies, due to the presence of exuviae and hairs in affected grains (Morison, 1925;Pruthi and Singh, 1950). ...
... Hence, the Swedish County Administrative Boards, which decide on permits for fish stocking, handle carp stocking permits regularly (at least in the southern counties). Given that carp is considered to be one of the most invasive fish species in the world (Lowe et al. 2000) and that it can contribute to ecosystem change with associated biodiversity loss, for example, through predation, competition, macrophyte destruction and bioturbation (Cahn 1929;Weber and Brown 2009;Kloskowski 2011), there is a need to consider potential risks of reproduction before allowing stocking. This recommendation is further substantiated when considering increasing water temperatures in spring as a consequence of climatic change (Woolway et al. 2020), which is expected to improve conditions for carp in Central and Northern Europe (Souza et al. 2022). ...
In this brief report, we report on the occurrence of young‐of‐the‐year common carp, as well as older juveniles, in a golf course irrigation pond in Stockholm County, Sweden (59°16′40.4″N 18°28′0.6″E). This documents a case of natural reproduction of the regularly stocked non‐native carp in Swedish waters, near the northern limit for the stocking operations. Stocking of common carp in Sweden is generally conducted under assumptions that reproduction is not possible due to low spring‐time water temperatures not meeting the reproductive requirements of common carp. Our observation suggests that risks for ecological impacts through the establishment of self‐reproducing populations of common carp can be higher than previously assumed. We recommend that this observation is considered when deciding on permits for future carp stocking in Sweden.
... Anthropogenic introductions of invasive species have significantly impacted native ecosystems, economic activity, and human health (Lowe et al. 2000, simberLoff et al. 2005, didham et al. 2007, PyšeK et al. 2020. Invasive slugs reduce the populations of native terrestrial molluscs by decreasing their reproductive rates and increasing mortality of native species, as well as increasing hybridisation among them (roLLo 1983, haTTeLaNd et al. 2015, reise et al. 2020. ...
Milax gagates, native to the western Mediterranean region, has been introduced to many countries including Japan. Despite the need for an anatomical examination for its accurate identification, records of this species in Japan have been based on brief lists in the 20th century and its recent distribution remains unclear. In this study, we rediscovered slugs of M. gagates from Tokyo, Japan, and identified them by examining anatomical traits and a mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) haplotype. This species is believed to be established in the study area based on field observations in 2022 and 2024. The haplotype of the Japanese specimens corresponded to those of non-native populations in the UK, the Netherlands, Portugal, and the Iberian Peninsula, suggesting that it was might not only have been originated from the native range, but also from secondary introduction from non-native areas.
... Ulex europaeus has been classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as one of the one hundred worst invasive species in the world (Lowe et al. 2000). It typically occupies degraded soils, indicating that they have been subject to intense agricultural use and are very hard to eradicate (Hauenstein et al. 2001). ...
Worldwide, the landscape has changed due to high levels of human intervention, population growth, and economic activities. In Southern Chile, the original Native Forest was the predominant ecosystem, widely replaced by farmlands and forestry plantations with exotic species, and scrub. This study aimed to study bird diversity in different land uses in a territory initially from the same native forest ecosystem. Seasonal counts were used to characterize α, β, and γ diversities of each environment using Shannon and Wiener’s and Pielou’s equity index (α), the Bray Curtis index (β), and bird species lists for the Los Ríos Region (γ). Differences among environments (Scrub of Ulex europaeus, Forestry Plantation, Agroecosystem, and Native Forest) were observed 15 in the bird assemblages. The greatest diversity was found in agroecosystems and the minor in scrublands dominated by the invasive U. europaeus. The heterogeneous ecosystems offered more outstanding habitats with a greater diversity of birds, whereas the reverse occurs in homogeneous environments (Scrub of U. europaeus and Forestry Plantation). We discuss the role of productivity in explaining the differences in the diversity and importance of agroecosystems in conserving bird diversity compared to the original native forest.
... Among the 100 invasive species identified, a significant proportion, namely 50 species, are associated with freshwater ecosystems and riparian zones. This abundance is notable considering the surface area occupied by these ecosystems [9]. In fact, Algeria possesses a wealth of natural rivers and various fish species, autochthonous and introduced freshwater fish species [10,11]. ...
The Topmouth gudgeon Pseudorasbora parva exhibits a remarkable capacity for expansion to spread outside of its current habitats and territories, across all continents, threatening the existence of native species. The species was recorded for the first time in 1992 in Northeast Algeria; therefore, assessing its distribution in the country is necessary. This study is conducted in Algeria during the period from February 2023 to May 2024. The current study's objective is to explore historical sites and thus search for possible new localities of the species. Our study revealed the discovery of four new localities in Algeria for the species, in Oued Djendjen (Jijel), Aissi stream (Tizi Ouzou), Oued Z'hor (Skikda) and Cheliff River (Mostaganem) which the latter is the most important hydrographic basin in Algeria. This is the first time this species has been reported in these regions, indicating a notable expansion of its range to the northwest. Consequently, further studies on its ecology in these newly colonized areas are urgently recommended in order to control the invasion of this species and its impact on Algerian indigenous species.
... They are notorious biofouling organisms (Ludyanskiy et al., 1993)-their active byssal apparatus allows them to attach to hard substrates at very high densities that can impede the function of human infrastructure, resulting in an annual loss of half a billion dollars (Warziniack et al., 2021). Due to these negative impacts on biodiversity and the economy, zebra mussels have earned a spot in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's list of 100 of the world's worst invaders (Lowe et al., 2004). Therefore, understanding the expansion characteristics of zebra mussels can help us slow or stop their spread and may provide insights into managing other emerging invasions. ...
The rising introduction of invasive species through trade networks threatens biodiversity and ecosystem services. Yet, we have a limited understanding of how transportation networks determine spatiotemporal patterns of range expansion. This knowledge gap may stem from two reasons. First, current analytical models fail to integrate the invader's life‐history dynamics with heterogeneity in human‐mediated dispersal patterns. Second, classical statistical methods often fail to provide reliable estimates of model parameters, such as the time and place of species introduction and life‐history characteristics, due to spatial biases in the presence‐only records and lack of informative demographic data. To address these gaps, we first formulate an age‐structured metapopulation model that uses a probability matrix to emulate human‐mediated dispersal patterns. The model reveals that an invader spreads radially along the shortest network path, such that the inter‐patch network distances decrease with increasing traffic volume and reproductive value of hitchhikers. Next, we propose a hierarchical Bayesian statistical method to estimate model parameters using presence‐only data and prior demographic knowledge. To show the utility of the statistical approach, we analyze zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) expansion in North America through the inland commercial shipping network. Our analysis suggests that zebra mussels might have been introduced before 1981, indicating a lag of 5 years between the time of introduction and first detection in late 1986. Furthermore, using our statistical model, we estimated a one in three chance that they were introduced near Kingsville (Ontario, Canada), where they were first reported. We also find that survival, fecundity, and dispersal during early life (1–2 years) play a critical role in determining the expansion success of these mollusks. These results underscore the importance of fusing prior scientific knowledge with observation and demographic processes in a Bayesian framework for conceptual and practical understanding of how invasive species spread by human agency.
... Lantana camara es un arbusto leñoso perenne de la familia Verbenaceae, que en Venezuela es muy conocido como "Cariaquito morado". Es nativa de Brasil y Uruguay, sin embargo, debido a su capacidad adaptativa se ha establecido y naturalizado en muchas regiones tropicales y subtropicales fuera de su área de distribución típica (Lowe et al. 2000). Tiene una distribución amplia en Centro y Sur América, el Caribe y Hawái, algunas regiones de Europa, África y Australia, donde algunas de sus variedades tienen usos ornamentales (Almeida et al., 2016). ...
RESUMEN. Por vez primera se reporta la presencia en Venezuela del ácaro Aceria lantanae (Cook, 1906) (Acari: Eriophyidae), atacando la especie Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) conocida como “Cariaquito morado”. Este ácaro fitófago induce la formación de agallas foliares que además de originar grotescas alteraciones estéticas, reducen el potencial fotosintético y, en consecuencia, comprometen el crecimiento y la reproducción natural del individuo afectado. El ácaro fue descubierto en arbustos localizados en distintos sectores del Municipio Libertador de Mérida, estado Mérida y se identificó como a. lantanae sobre la base del análisis realizado a las características morfológicas registradas en imágenes de microscopía de luz de alta y microscopía electrónica de barrido.
... Introduced house mice (Mus musculus) are one of the most globally widespread invasive species (Lowe et al. 2000;Russell in press). They are a major agricultural pest (Brown et al. 2022) and disease host (Moinet et al. 2024). ...
Introduced house mice are widespread in Aotearoa/New Zealand, and they have significant impacts on native wildlife. The most common toxins for controlling rodents are anticoagulant rodenticides (AR). Even though AR are an efficient tool, resistance to these substances in rodent populations has been detected in many countries. This phenomenon represents a major factor in reducing the success of pest management, and it is mostly related to missense mutations (SNPs) in the VKORC1 gene. Despite the crucial importance of effective house mouse management, genetic AR resistance in mice in Aotearoa/New Zealand is poorly understood. In this study, we undertook a genetic survey of six sites across the Auckland region to investigate the presence of VKORC1 mutations potentially involved in AR resistance. We found a total of five different missense mutations across four of the six sites. Three mutations leading to amino acid changes have been recorded in rodents previously while two are novel. Among these, the well-known Tyr139Cys, involved in resistance to some powerful AR like bromadiolone, is found with a high allelic frequency in central Auckland. Our results suggest that even across a moderate geographic region, there can be important genetic diversity and clustering in AR resistance. Anticoagulant rodenticides are a critical tool in introduced rodent management, but their use must be considered and genetic screening of rodent populations should increasingly be an important part of AR management operations.
... It preys on native aquatic animals, disrupting natural aquatic ecosystems [2,[5][6][7][8][9][10] and also hybridizes with native salmonids, reducing their genetic integrity and fitness, threatening their long-term viability, and destabilizing freshwater ecosystems [11][12][13]. Due to these ecological threats, S. trutta is listed among the "100 of the World's Worst Invasive Alien Species" by the IUCN [14]. ...
Salmo trutta, commonly known as brown trout, is an invasive species that has established itself in various regions, including South Korea, where it poses ecological risks to native freshwater fish populations. To enable natural habitat restoration, S. trutta needs to be monitored, but traditional monitoring techniques are associated with several limitations. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to apply a sensitive and specific real-time PCR (qPCR) assay using a set of primers and a hydrolysis probe specific to the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of S. trutta. Environmental DNA (eDNA) was extracted from river-water samples collected downstream of the Soyang Reservoir and around the Uiam Reservoir between January and March 2023. The qPCR assays successfully detected S. trutta eDNA in 11 of the 24 samples, with high concentrations found upstream and downstream of the Soyang River. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of qPCR assay for the S. trutta detection in aquatic environments and highlight its potential for monitoring the spread of this species, especially in areas that are difficult to survey using traditional methods. This molecular approach offers a more efficient tool for S. trutta population management, mitigating its impact on native biodiversity.
... Esta planta es quizás la especie invasora más agresiva y peligrosa de nuestros ecosistemas riparios y está catalogada por la UICN como uno de los 100 organismos vivos invasores más nocivos al nivel mundial (Lowe et al. 2000, Sanz Elorza et al. 2004). En efecto, se considera que es una de las pocas plantas introducidas que puede transformar hasta tal punto los hábitats que coloniza que imposibilita definitivamente el desarrollo de las comunidades nativas originales (Lowe et al. 2004 www.issg.org/booklet.pdf ...
https://www.miteco.gob.es/content/dam/miteco/es/agua/publicaciones/Invasion_esp_exoticas_en_rios_tcm30-214556.pdf
... However, Forrest and Taylor [19] reported little impact on invaded low shore assemblages in New Zealand, though the authors warned about limitations of the impact control design used to evaluate the Undaria effects on native assemblages [19]. Despite these contrasting results, Undaria is nowadays included in the list of the 100 of the world's worst invasive species [20]; particularly in Europe, it has been considered one of the 10 worst invasive species [21]. Unfortunately, like many other non-indigenous marine species, the information about Undaria invasion is scarce and geographically biased, making it very difficult to develop management and mitigation measures to reduce its impact on native systems [22,23]. ...
The kelp Undaria pinnatifida is considered one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world. The presence of Undaria in Portugal was reported more than 20 years ago, but there is not recent detailed information about its distribution and impacts. The aims of this study are to provide updated data about the distribution of Undaria in marinas and natural habitats along the north Portuguese coast, to afford insights about Undaria impacts on native macroalgae and to test the efficiency of mitigation actions based on Undaria removal. Mitigation measures were implemented in a marina where a native kelp was recently displaced by Undaria. The results showed stable populations of Undaria in marinas, but few ephemeral ones on natural rocky shores. The observed distribution pattern suggests an important role of salinity and wave exposure in shaping the distribution of Undaria. Moreover, Undaria was able to displace a native kelp and overgrow mussels in marinas, while on natural rocky shores, it was able to overgrow Gongolaria baccata but not native kelps. Finally, mitigation actions resulted in a partial recolonization by the native kelp.
... Traveset et al. 2009) e per le isole minori italiane . La specie è inclusa nell'elenco delle 100 tra le specie invasive più dannose al mondo redatto dall'IUCN (Lowe et al. 2000). L'arrivo dei ratti trasforma gli ecosistemi insulari, modificando le comunità vegetali, causando il declino o addirittura l'estinzione delle popolazioni di uccelli marini, spesso favorendo, indirettamente, la diffusione e l'aumento numerico di altre specie aliene, come i gatti inselvatichiti che a loro volta hanno un pesante impatto sulla fauna locale (Trouwborst et al. 2020). ...
Col suo ricco patrimonio di isole - oltre 300 quelle degne di questo nome - e alcuni millenni di storia navale alle spalle, non sorprende che l'Italia abbia attenzionato il trinomio ratto-isole-avifauna già da oltre venti anni (Baccetti et al. 2016; Capizzi et al. 2019). Qui, infatti, l'impatto di Rattus rattus sui Procellariformi ad abitudini riproduttive fossorie o cavernicole rappresenta una tassa consolidatasi in millenni di convivenza (Ruffino et al. 2009), grazie a situazioni locali più o meno durevolmente rat-free e ad equilibri resi possibili, anche sulle isole infestate, da poco note dinamiche densità-dipendenti. Non sappiamo con esattezza quante fossero le isole che ospitavano berte (Procellaridae) prima dell'arrivo dei ratti, in quante poi le popolazioni siano drasticamente diminuite oppure addirittura scomparse: ma conosciamo abbastanza bene la distribuzione delle colonie attuali e sappiamo che
quanto resta mantiene un valore conservazionistico rilevante (Baccetti et al. 2009). Riportare alla produttività anteratto alcune isole relativamente poco impegnative sotto l'aspetto economico e organizzativo è stato lo stimolo per le prime eradicazioni, svolte fino circa al 2005. Sulla base di tali esperienze, un'analisi effettuata sull'intero patrimonio insulare italiano (Capizzi et al. 2010) ha permesso di individuare le priorità di intervento per gli anni a venire, e per conseguenza di operare con la massima efficacia (anche economica) in iniziative che non trovano al momento confronto, almeno all'interno del Mediterraneo.
Il presente lavoro intende offrire una panoramica puntuale delle esperienze conseguite da un singolo e coeso gruppo di lavoro, afferente ad amministrazioni quanto mai diverse. Ci si prefigge di entrare non solo nell'ovvio dettaglio delle tecniche usate e dei motivi di successo, ma anche in quello di errori e fallimenti, imprevisti e sottovalutazioni, creatività nelle soluzioni e prudenza nel realizzarle, senza dimenticare i difetti di comunicazione e le insidie mediatiche. Certamente il clima non solo atmosferico, ma anche umano, è molto cambiato da quando abbiamo mosso i primi passi. Poiché molto anche in futuro cambierà, stando ai rispettivi trend, ci pare necessario non indugiare nello scoprire le carte per procedere a una nuova, ancor più efficace pianificazione.
... This combination of biological adaptability and ecological impact has positioned the European rabbit as one of the most paradoxical species in conservation biology [34]. While globally recognized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to severe population declines in its native range [49], the species simultaneously ranks among the top 100 worst invasive species worldwide [50]. This dual status reflects its contrasting ecological roles; a keystone species in its native range [51,52] and an invasive herbivore causing substantial ecological and economic damage to the island ecosystems it invades. ...
The European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) presents a significant conservation and management challenge in Greece. While it has been listed in national biodiversity assessments, its population dynamics on the island of Lemnos demonstrate the characteristics of a highly adaptable and rapidly expanding species, exerting substantial ecological and economic impacts. Addressing this issue requires a spatially explicit understanding of its distribution patterns and habitat preferences, particularly given its extensive population growth over the past three decades. To this end, we conducted 40 field surveys across the island, documenting 1534 presence records of the species. We applied Kernel Density Estimation, Getis-Ord Gi *, and Anselin Local Moran’s I to identify the spatial distribution patterns and significant hotspots. A spatial lag model was used to quantify hotspot intensity and clustering dynamics, while abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic factors were analyzed to assess habitat associations. Our results revealed that rabbit hotspots are predominantly concentrated in fertile lowland agroecosystems, with nearly 60% of high-density areas overlapping conservation zones. Soil and field conditions, grazing-supporting landscapes, and arable and subsidized agricultural areas emerged as significant predictors of O. cuniculus presence. The observed spatial dependencies indicated that while hotspot intensities and clustering dynamics are influenced by the conditions in neighboring areas, habitat characteristics remain fundamental in shaping their distribution, highlighting the broader landscape-scale spatial patterns affecting rabbit populations. These findings underscore the necessity of adopting spatially informed management strategies that mitigate agricultural impacts while accounting for interconnected spatial dynamics, providing a foundation for informed decision-making to manage rabbit populations while balancing conservation and agricultural priorities.
... Among them, U. europaeus stands out not only as one of the most invasive species in the world but also for its potential in cancer therapy and diagnosis [10]. A water-soluble extract from U. europaeus seeds has been found to inhibit the growth of various reticuloendothelial tumor cell lines through a non-cytotoxic and reversible mechanism, and some types of myelomas have shown sensitivity to extracts of the same species [11,12]. ...
The plant kingdom serves as a valuable resource for cancer drug development. This study explored the antitumor activity of different sub-fractions (hexane, dichloromethane and methanol) of U. gallii (gorse) methanol extract in glioblastoma (U-87MG and U-373MG) and neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell lines, along with their phytochemical profiles. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, and cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were assessed through flow cytometry and by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein expression levels. D7 and D8 dichloromethane sub-fractions significantly reduced cell viability, triggered early apoptosis in SH-SY5Y and U-87MG cells and specifically increased ROS levels in U-87MG cells. Western blot analyses showed that D7 increased p53, caspase-3, caspase-8 and γH2AX expression in SH-SY5Y and U-87MG cells, while D8 specifically elevated p53 in SH-SY5Y cells and caspase-3 in both cell lines. In U-373 cells, D7 and D8 markedly reduced cell viability, with D8 inducing necrosis. Morphological changes indicative of apoptosis were also observed in all cell lines. Bioinformatic analysis of UHPLC-MS and GC-MS data tentatively identified 20 metabolites in D7 and 15 in D8, primarily flavonoids. HPLC-DAD confirmed isoprunetin and genistein as the most abundant in D7 and D8, respectively, both isolated and identified by NMR spectroscopy. Most of the flavonoids identified have been reported as antitumor agents, suggesting that these compounds may be responsible for the observed pharmacological activity.
... This species was introduced into Europe in the mid-19 th century (Beerling et al., 1994;Bailey & Conolly, 2000) and into North America before 1873 (Barney, 2006). Because of the highly negative effects of R. japonica, it has been listed as one of the 100 world's worst invasive alien species by the IUCN (Lowe et al., 2000). Introduced populations of R. japonica have almost no genetic diversity, and are thought to originate from a single female individual (Hollingsworth & Bailey, 2000;Richards et al., 2012;Gaskin et al., 2014;Groeneveld et al., 2014;Jugieau et al., 2024;but see VanWallendael et al., 2021). ...
Many widespread invasive plant species express high phenotypic variation across novel environments, providing a unique opportunity to examine ecological and evolutionary dynamics under global change. However, studies often lack information about the origin of introduced populations, limiting our understanding of post‐introduction evolution.
We assessed the responses of Reynoutria japonica from 128 populations spanning latitudinal transects in the native (China and Japan), and introduced (North America and Europe) ranges when grown in two common gardens.
Plants from introduced populations differed in almost all traits from those from Chinese populations, but were similar to plants from the putative origin in Japan. Compared to Chinese populations, North American, European and Japanese populations expressed lower trait values and plasticity in most traits. However, plants from both introduced and Japanese populations expressed higher clonality and plasticity in clonality than plants from Chinese populations. Further, introduced populations expressed higher plasticity in clonality but lower plasticity in basal diameter compared to Japanese populations.
Our findings emphasize the potential role of clonality and plasticity in clonality for invasion success. In addition, our study highlights the importance of comparisons to source populations within the native range to identify evolutionary responses of introduced plants to novel environments.
The invasive red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, poses significant ecological and economic challenges, necessitating sustainable alternatives to conventional pest control. This study evaluates the biocontrol potential of Cunninghamella echinulata isolate SMH-1, an entomopathogenic fungus, through integrated morphological, biochemical, and metabolomic analyses. Light and scanning electron microscopy elucidated infection dynamics, revealing conidial germination, cuticular penetration, and systemic hyphal proliferation, culminating in complete cadaver colonization. At 1×108 conidia/mL, SMH-1 achieved 100% mortality in S. invicta workers within 7 days, with virulence maintained across thermal gradients (10–30°C). Acetone extracts of SMH-1 induced dose-dependent lethality, reaching 100% mortality at 1,000 mg/L. Nineteen significantly differentiated metabolites were identified from phospholipids category through UPLC/MS analysis of isolate SMH-1. The derived compounds also showed strong potential against S. invicta, among which dihydrocoumarin caused 100% mortality over 12-days of exposure. The bioactivity of isolate SMH-1 (Conidia), (extracts) and (dihydrocoumarin) against S. invicta revealed significantly differentiated metabolites as (Sulfolithocholylglycine, PE(18_1(9Z)_0_0), CE(12:0), LysoPI(18:1(9Z)/0:0) and Hydroxydestruxin B), (Tropine, lignoceric acid, 9-deoxy-9-methylene-16,16-dimethyl -PGE2, Flecainide and Jubanine B), and (3-O-alpha-D-Glucopyranuronosyl-D-xylose, Rilmakalim, 2-Amino-3-methyl-1-butanol, 2,4-Dimethyl-1,3-oxazole-5-carboxylic acid and Caffeinol), respectively. Citrate cycle (TCA) was significantly impacted by differential expression of pyruvate, pyruvic acid, succinic acid and fumaric acid. These findings underscore SMH-1’s multifaceted biocontrol potential, combining direct pathogenicity, thermo-tolerance, and metabolite-mediated toxicity. By delineating host-pathogen interactions and metabolic disruptions, this work advances C. echinulata isolate SMH-1 as a sustainable candidate for integrated S. invicta management, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic insecticides.
Cooperative behavior can enhance fitness and ecological success. However, its role in facilitating biological invasions remains underexplored. To assess the occurrence and importance of intraspecific cooperation in invasive species, we examine cooperative transport—working together to move large objects—across ant species. Specifically, we evaluate its prevalence in the world’s top invasive ants and compare its occurrence between invasive and non-invasive species using a previously published dataset of ants from East Asia. Additionally, we conduct a field experiment comparing cooperative transport in the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) and a non-invasive, ecologically similar species (Dorymyrmex tener). Our literature review, complemented by experiments with the invasive Wasmannia auropunctata, confirms that cooperative transport is present in all five of the world's most invasive ant species. In the analyzed dataset, all invasive species exhibited cooperative transport, whereas only 60% of the non-invasive species did. In the field experiments, L. humile cooperatively transported more baits and showed greater accuracy toward its nests than D. tener. This cooperative ability may contribute to the invasion success of L. humile by enhancing resource acquisition and competitive dominance. Our findings suggest that cooperative transport is more prevalent among ants than previously reported and may be particularly common in invasive species. However, further research with a broader representation of global ant diversity and a larger sample size is needed to validate this pattern. Intraspecific cooperation could play a key role in invasion success, highlighting the need to incorporate cooperative behavioral traits into studies of species invasions and management strategies.
This article aims to answer the research question: How do 5th grade students experience the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to create a comic strip describing the survival struggle between the Myna and the Lesser Kestrel? This study utilized a case-study approach to examine the advantages and challenges experienced by 5th grade students using AI tools to create a comic strip about the Lesser Kestrel's survival struggle. Data were collected through qualitative methods, including student reflections, drawings, and analyses of the comic strips they created. Additionally, a questionnaire was used to assess students' attitudes towards the four components of 21st century skills: Creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. The study indicates that the development of 21st century skills among students requires a collaborative effort involving both parents and teachers. It is not sufficient to rely solely on technological tools; there must be intermediary processes and support from teachers, who are obliged to adjust their teaching methods. Additionally, a teaching approach that supports the creation of a future citizen with a humanistic outlook and awareness of the complexity of life, is essential. This approach develops students' environmental citizenship, which is also an important 21st century skill. This involves integrating ethical, inclusive, and holistic perspectives to address complex problems, such as the survival struggle between the Lesser Kestrel and Myna.
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