Jerome Jackson
Friday, October 17, 2008 - 9:30-10:00
The history of exotic invasive vertebrates in continental North America likely spans more than five centuries and can be characterized by a gradual increase in numbers of species during the first four centuries, followed by geometric growth during the last century. Recognition of the invasiveness of vertebrate species has often taken several decades, by which time the species is too numerous and widespread to eradicate. For some species invasive characteristics and potential have been recognized, but ignored due to funding priorities, apathy, or citizen objection to eradication efforts. Impacts of invasive vertebrates on native fauna and flora include competition for food and nest sites, kleptoparasitism, predation, habitat alteration and destruction, and dispersal of parasites, pathogens, and the seeds of invasive plants. Invasive vertebrates in North America have also caused serious damage to crops, stored commodities, and buildings and other structures. Several have served as reservoirs and vectors for human and livestock diseases. Some negative impacts have been a result of synergisms between invasive species.
Keywords: ADVENTIVE, INTERSPECIFIC SYNERGY, LAG TIME, ECOSYSTEM IMPACTS, VERTEBRATES