Invasion Science Institute

University of Florida

There are more than 3,700 non-native species in Florida, and almost 40% of them have been identified as invasive. These species are reshaping ecosystems across the state, from marine and coastal systems to upland habitats, agricultural systems, urban areas, wetlands, and lakes. Invasive species range from agricultural insect and pathogen pests that reduce productivity to aggressive plants that suppress native biodiversity to predators like pythons and lionfish that devastate native wildlife.

The Invasion Science Institute at the University of Florida addresses the pressing challenge of invasive species in Florida, across the US, and globally. The Institute facilitates interdisciplinary research to enhance scientific discovery, develop innovative management solutions, and train the next generation of scientists.

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Updates and Events

Reshaping Nature Symposium

March 31, 2026

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Outstanding Publication Award

Award-winning papers from ISI Affiliates

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Invasive Plants and Ticks

Invasive Plants have the potential to enhance tick-borne diseases

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UF Blog: Invasion Science

  • Native Plants Play Key Role in Wildlife Gardens
    by Maria Quirico
     Native plants are increasingly promoted as a cornerstone of wildlife-friendly gardening, but experts say gardeners do not need to limit themselves exclusively to native species to support pollinators and other wildlife. What are Native Plants? Native plants are species that […]
  • Plant Science Student Spotlight: Afrifa Amoah-Mensah
    by Eva Sailly
    “My mom’s Jamaican, so I grew up drinking sorrel made with ginger and cinnamon from plants we grew in our backyard. Now I want to bring that same hibiscus into my own breeding projects and see what new varieties we […]
  • 2026 Row Crop Field Day Highlights & Handouts
    by Doug Mayo
    Authored by:  Ethan Carter, Regional Row Crop Agent The UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, Florida hosted its annual Row Crop Field Day on July 30th. The third edition of this event has slowly grown in size […]

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