Invasive Species

* (Japanese Kudzu) This a extreme example. I have never seen something to this scale.

As "Globalization" occurs many non native species are brought over from other countries. Large freight ships are notoriously responsible, many plants, animals, and insects "hitch a ride" in cargo. Other examples include people bringing them over as pets; the python infiltrating the everglades is a perfect example. Some of these species cannot adapt as well as the Native Plants and are not a serious threat. However, there are a significant portion that adapt better than these Native Plants and often threaten their existence. The main issue is the loss of biodiversity; these invasive species threaten bats, trees, insects, and plants which provide important roles in the ecosystem. If these species are threatened, the ecosystem may not be in "check". For example, if the bat populations die off, pollination is at threat, certain insect populations will not be in check such as mosquitoes, and other animals which rely on bats. There are even economic incentives; many farms rely on pesticides to kill insects which only leads to Super Bugs (see GMO post). However, a high bat population can help lower our need for pesticides. A bat colony of 1.5 million during peak season can eat 15 to 30 thousand pounds of insects. which would equate to millions of insects. However, there is a type of Fungus from some country, (I forgot the name and exact specs), that is threatening them severely.

Another type of threat are invasive plants. People tend to include creatures and insects but forget this aspect. An invasive plant can dominate forests and kill native trees. Vines such as Japanese Bittersweet and Honeysuckle can kill trees over a time.

Japanese Honeysuckle vs Tree.

-Hungry Turtle