What makes a species Invasive?
Native
Native
Non-native
non-native
Invasive
invasive
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.
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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.
- All
- Aquatic
- Birds
- Reptiles
- fish
- invertebrates
- plants
- terrestrial
- tier 1
- tier 2
- tier 3
- tier 4
- tier 5