Species

What makes a species Invasive?

Native

Native

Has developed over hundreds or thousands of years in a particular region or ecosystem.

Non-native

non-native

Has been introduced to a new place or new type of habitat where it was not previously found. Has a beneficial or neutral impact on the ecosystem.

Invasive

invasive

A non-native species able to establish on many sites, grow quickly, and spread to the point of disrupting communities or ecosystems, harm human health and the economy.

INVASIVE SPECIES Threaten our ECOSYSTEMS, RESULTING IN:

  • Habitat degradation and loss 
  • The loss of native fish, wildlife and tree species
  • The loss of recreational opportunities and income
  • Crop damage and diseases in humans and livestock
  • Risks to public safety

Invasive Species Can be the difference between...

Invasive vines and insects can weaken trees and make them less resilient in storms. Invasive plants can cause erosion and displace natives that assist in shoreline stabilization. When we are hit with a large storm, a shoreline can protect us from intense storm surges and prevent flooding events.

Invasive plants like barberry and honeysuckle create the perfect environment for ticks to thrive. Plants like multiflora rose have sharp thorns that can scratch you and damage your gear.

Aquatic invasive plants can easily get tangled in boat engines and ruin a fun day on the water. They can make paddling through a pond a strenuous exercise, or make swimming in a pond a less desirable activity. These aquatic invasive plants, as well as invasive fish and invertebrates, can reduce habitat quality and outcompete our important fish species.

Invasive insects and pathogens can lead to the destruction of our important crops, impeding their growth by feeding on leaves or damaging fruits. Invasive plants can invade farm fields and compete with crops. Both impose large costs on farms to manage these invaders.

Dive deeper

The Tier List

A resource that ranks New York's invasive species, so that together we can manage them.

Invasive Species Prevention Zones (ISPZ)

A formal LIISMA designation for a natural area supporting exceptional biodiversity.

Can you pass our quiz?

Test your knowledge of invasive species!

Why it matters

Invasive species threaten nearly every aspect of our world, and are one of the greatest threats to New York’s biodiversity, agriculture, and outdoor recreation.

Explore (Some of) the Species

  • All
  • Aquatic
  • Birds
  • Reptiles
  • fish
  • invertebrates
  • plants
  • terrestrial
  • tier 1
  • tier 2
  • tier 3
  • tier 4
  • tier 5