Invasive alien species and their indicators

Abstract

Biodiversity is obstructed not only by climate change but also, among other factors, by invasive alien species (IAS). The infiltration/invasion, overgrowth, and control of IAS is linked to many elements, such as human activities that change our environment in such a way that, together with climate change, new opportunities for alien species to conquer new territories are realized. The successful take over by IAS of new geographic areas is orchestrated by the ability to grow fast and spread rapidly without “real competition.” The environmental/ecological impact of IAS has still to be defined; however, there is plenty of research that can be performed to assess this facet. Presently, the global awareness of IAS is rising, as expressed in the many international committees/organizations looking for IAS’s indicators and economical solutions to the problem.