Comparisons between non-native species invasion and native species range expansion

Abstract

Background & Aim: In response to the rapid global change, a growing number of species have been undergoing range shifts, which includes two main processes: one is the non-native species invasion mediated by human activities, and the other is the natural range expansion of native species. There are both similarities and differences between these two processes. It is thus critically important to distinguish their similarities and differences to develop scientific strategies for invasive species prevention and native species conservation. Progresses: By comparing the non-native species invasion and native species range expansion, we find that both non-native species invasion and native species range expansion are increasing under global change. However, there were obvious differences in potential drivers, spatial-temporal scales and ecological outcomes between the two processes. The non-native species invasion usually occurs across long distance with the aid of human activity, spreads rapidly after establishment, and poses a serious threat to local biodiversity. By contrast, range expansion of native species usually occurs at smaller spatial scales, spread more slowly, and generally has less impact on new regions. Prospects: As it is difficult to accurately determine the potential impacts of new-arrival species on recipient habitats, long-term monitoring and studies assessing the biological and ecological effects of these two processes on local population dynamics, community structure, and ecosystem function are needed, which is important to develop schemes of non-native species mitigation and native biodiversity conservation.