What are invasive species and why are they a problem?
Californians have benefited from the introduction of plant and animal species necessary for food or other human pursuits; however, there are many other introduced species that can wreak havoc on the state’s environment and economy. Those species that cause harm and once established, spread quickly from their point of introduction are often called “invasive.”
Invasive species threaten the diversity or abundance of native species through competition for resources, predation, parasitism, interbreeding with native populations, transmitting diseases, or causing physical or chemical changes to the invaded habitat. Through their impacts on natural ecosystems, agricultural and other developed lands, water delivery and flood protection systems, invasive species may also negatively affect human health and/or the economy. Examples of direct impact to human activities include the clogging of navigable waterways and water delivery systems, weakening flood control structures, damaging crops, introducing diseases to animals that are raised or harvested commercially, and diminishing sportfish populations.
Other Sites of Interest:
CDFA Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services has a variety of information on exotic plant pests and diseases.- http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/
Other Sites of Interest:
CDFA Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services has a variety of information on exotic plant pests and diseases.- http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/phpps/