Impact of alien terrestrial arthropods in Europe. Chapter 5

Abstract

This chapter reviews the effects of alien terrestrial arthropods on the economy, society and environment in Europe. Many alien insect and mite species cause serious socio-economic hazards as pests of agriculture, horticulture, stored products, forestry, & human or animal health. There is relatively little information available on the exact yield & financial losses due to alien agricultural & forestry pests in Europe. Invasive alien arthropods can also cause environmental hazards, affecting native biodiversity through various mechanisms, including herbivory, predation, parasitism, competition for resource & space, or as vectors of diseases. They can also affect ecosystem services & processes through cascading effects. Alternate citation: Kenis M, Branco M (2010) Chapter 5: Impact of alien terrestrial arthropods in Europe. In: Roques A et al. (Eds) Alien terrestrial arthropods of Europe. BioRisk 4(1): 5171