Invasive Species A project about Invasive species By: Alex Ryan

Definition An invasive species is defined as an organism (plant, animal, fungus, etc) that isn't native and has/can have negative effects on our environment, or our health. Not all introduced species are invasive.

Damage caused by invasive species Invasive plants and animals are the second greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat loss. Many invasive plants are responsible for habitat damage, loss of subsistence resources, and economic loss.

The impact Invasive Species Impacts Environmental Impacts Can negatively impact biodiversity Can cause species extirpation and extinction Can cause soil degradation, and erosion Can alter fire cycles Societal Impacts Can cause disease Can cause human or animal suffering Can reduce land and water recreational opportunities Economic Impacts Control and management costs can be significant Can reduce productivity in forestry, agricultural, and fishing sectors Can cause export and import trade restrictions Can reduce property values This is a example of invasive species that has impacts in Canada

The impact (continued form last slide) Japanese Knotweeds Japanese Knotweed is a perennial shrub from Asia, Once established in disturbed areas or along stream banks, this highly invasive species can displace basically all other types of vegetation.

How to help Going camping? Don’t transport firewood. Buy it locally leave what you don’t use there. Going fishing? Don’t empty your bait bucket in or near water it’s against the law. Going boating? Wash your boat before you move to another lake or river. Going hiking? Clean visible mud, plants and seeds from your boots and other equipment. Have a turtle or other small reptile pet that is no longer wanted? Don’t release it into the wild. Contact a reptile rescue society for help. Travelling? Don’t take plants, plant parts, seeds or fruit across borders. That’s some ways to keep invasive species at bay.