Invasive plant species

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Abstract

Invasive species may be one of the worts environmental problems facing the conservation of natural areas, because of their role in changing ecosystem function. At the same time, invasive species cause much human suffering and economic loss. The approach to eliminating invasive species can be improved by a better understanding of the various types of invasive species, and the scientific hypotheses surrounding their ability to invade novel environments. Despite the billions of dollars spent each year, invasive species are difficult if not impossible to eliminate after they have established. Various methods of eliminating plant species from natural communities are described in this review. An increased understanding of the nature of invasive species including their genetic relationship to their progenitors, hypotheses regarding their invasive qualities, and effective approaches for their removal from ecosystems are all sorely needed. Volunteers can help in the invasive species effort by working on local plant/animal removal projects, reporting invasive species sightings to appropriate officials, or working with scientists to collect basic data for ecological research.

Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Invasive plant species
DOI 10.1016/B978-0-12-409548-9.11175-3
Edition Second Edition
Volume 1
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher Elsevier
Contributing office(s) Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Description 10 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Title Encyclopedia of ecology
First page 431
Last page 440
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