Britain is a hub for approximately 2,000 invasive species, including the notorious grey squirrel, which pose a significant threat to our native wildlife, as cautioned by experts. A groundbreaking report, published today, sheds light on the widespread presence of ‘alien’ species across the globe, wreaking havoc on both nature and human well-being. These plants, animals, and other organisms have made their way to Britain through human activity. Among them are the grey squirrel, Asian hornets, and rhododendrons, all of which have the potential to devastate our native species. Compiled by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), this report serves as the first global analysis on invasive alien species and the measures taken to control them.
According to the report, there are over 37,000 alien species that have been intentionally or unintentionally introduced to various regions worldwide, resulting in a staggering global economic cost of £336 billion in 2019. Out of these, about 3,500 species are considered ‘invasive’ and are known for their negative impacts on both nature and people. Furthermore, more than 200 new alien species are recorded each year, and they have greatly contributed to 60% of global animal and plant extinctions.
Professor Helen Roy, an esteemed ecologist at the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and co-author of the report, highlighted the well-known invasion caused by the grey squirrel in the UK. Originally introduced from North America in 1876 as an ornamental species for estate grounds, it wasn’t until 1930 that their detrimental effects were realized. Grey squirrels out-compete our native red squirrels for food and habitat, in addition to carrying a lethal virus that has negatively impacted red squirrel populations. The grey squirrels also inflict extensive damage to UK timber, resulting in an annual loss of approximately £14 million for the industry.
However, grey squirrels are not the sole problem. Professor Roy also mentioned the impacts of mink on native water voles, the adverse effects of the rhododendron on tree health due to fungal disease, and the challenges posed by killer shrimp to freshwater systems. Furthermore, sightings of the Asian hornet have been increasing in recent years, raising concerns about its threat to native bee populations. Harlequin ladybirds, a highly invasive species, are aggressive predators that out-compete native ladybirds for food, while giant hogweed can cause blisters on human skin.
Of the 2,000 invasive alien species in Britain, approximately 12 to 14 percent have been identified as problematic for biodiversity and ecosystems. The oak processionary moth, accidentally introduced to London through imported trees in 2006, has proven to be devastating to oak trees and poses health risks with its toxic proteins. The report also highlights the potential arrival of new alien species, such as raccoons, which are not currently present in the UK.
The IPBES report categorizes invasive alien species as one of the main drivers contributing to the ‘biodiversity apocalypse,’ alongside climate change and pollution. Dr. James Bell, a quantitative ecologist at Rothamsted Research, stressed the significance of the report, providing valuable evidence on the immense pressure faced by people and nature due to invasive alien species worldwide. He emphasized the urgent need for effective national-level control measures and monitoring infrastructure investments to combat these threats.
In conclusion, Britain is grappling with a remarkable number of invasive species, with significant implications for both native wildlife and human well-being. The report underlines the need for proactive measures to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species while emphasizing the importance of early detection, monitoring, and control. The future implications of these invaders necessitate strategic action to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystems.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
