It is National Invasive Species Awareness Week...so let's take a look at the different ways some of these species invade or spread to new areas.
Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) can come from any country in the world and may be introduced into new ecosystems in a variety of ways. The means and routes by which ANS are introduced into an aquatic ecosystem are called introduction pathways. Some species migrate into new areas on their own (volitional movement), while others may be carried into new areas by natural events such as hurricanes or floods. The vast majority of invasive species are spread into new water bodies as a direct result of human activities. Whether intentionally or by accident, once an ANS is introduced and becomes established in a new ecosystem, it is very costly and difficult to control or eradicate them. Often the best approach to preventing the introduction or further spread of ANS is to educate the public on the potential pathways of introduction and steps each person can take to stop the spread of ANS in their local community.
Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) can come from any country in the world and may be introduced into new ecosystems in a variety of ways. The means and routes by which ANS are introduced into an aquatic ecosystem are called introduction pathways. Some species migrate into new areas on their own (volitional movement), while others may be carried into new areas by natural events such as hurricanes or floods. The vast majority of invasive species are spread into new water bodies as a direct result of human activities. Whether intentionally or by accident, once an ANS is introduced and becomes established in a new ecosystem, it is very costly and difficult to control or eradicate them. Often the best approach to preventing the introduction or further spread of ANS is to educate the public on the potential pathways of introduction and steps each person can take to stop the spread of ANS in their local community.
Look at the following picture and identify 10 ways in which ANS are introduced or spread into local aquatic ecosystems.
Submitted by Donna Allard and Jen Poirier
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