Assessing the impact of invasive species on native aquatic ecosystems and developing management strategies

Abstract

Humans have successfully introduced thousands of species across the world, and as global trade and commerce have intensified, the rate of such introductions has increased over time. Due to concerns related to biodiversity and growing human demands for water resources, aquatic ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to invasive species. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) possess several characteristics that enable them to spread rapidly and establish themselves in new environments.

The impacts of AIS are significant and include ecological imbalance, loss of native biodiversity, economic damage, and threats to water resources. Effective management strategies are therefore essential to control and prevent further invasions. Particular attention must be given to species that pose the greatest risk for future invasions, especially those capable of facilitating the spread of other invasive organisms. Reservoirs and other sensitive aquatic habitats often act as entry points for invasions into new regions. Certain microorganisms can spread extensively, and these invasion processes may also have serious implications for human health.