Course Reflection What was your favorite topic in this course? (BioRegions) ** attached the assignments I turned in. ** Book : Clark , M.A., Douglas, M., & Choi, J. (2018). Biology (2nd ed.). Open

Invasive Species Impact Solutions

Jennifer Bacuylima

St. Thomas University

BSC-2064-OL1

February 9, 2025

Invasive Species Impact Solutions

What type of threat to biodiversity did you observe?

The video "Invasive Species 101" by National Geographic highlights the introduction of invasive species as the primary factor endangering biodiversity. Non-native species create ecosystem disruptions through resource competition between native organisms while they spread diseases and change natural habitats (National Geographic, 2019). Several invasive species demonstrate the negative effects on ecosystems, including zebra mussels blocking water pipes while overrunning Great Lakes beaches. At the same time, cane toads eliminated native predator species in Australia, and black wattle trees deplete South African water resources. Human activity through trade, travel, and deliberate species releases for pest control and agricultural purposes drives the introduction of invasive species.

How does this threat impact society?

Invasive species spread generates multiple societal impacts. The economic harm caused by invasive species exceeds one trillion dollars yearly when they disrupt agriculture, damage infrastructure, and pollute water resources. Zebra mussels cause plant pipelines and municipal water facilities to become clogged, which drives up operational expenses (National Geographic, 2019). Invasive species damage ecosystems, triggering both native species extinction and biodiversity decline. The toxic secretions of cane toads have caused Australian native predators to decline significantly. Some invasive species transmit diseases and create environmental changes that negatively impact human health. The ecological disruptions caused by invasive species demand substantial expenditures to implement management strategies.

What solutions would you propose to reduce the threat?

Prevention is the best way to minimize the potential for invasive species. Strict biosecurity measures can be put in place by governments and individuals to limit the spread of these novel flu strains. To prevent aquatic hitchhikers like zebra mussels, boaters should thoroughly clean their boats before transferring between different bodies of water (National Geographic, 2019). Exotic pets should not be released into the wild as they can be invasive and harm native wildlife. In addition, by encouraging the planting of native species in gardens rather than non-native plants, local biodiversity is aided. Policies limiting the importation of potentially invasive species, habitat restoration programs, and public awareness campaigns can play an important role in minimizing the risks caused by invasive species on a much larger scale.

Reference

National Geographic (2019, June 4). Invasive Species 101 | National Geographic. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYNAtw1c7hI