Invasion Science Institute

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.

Updates and Events

Reshaping Nature Symposium

March 31, 2026

Paper of the Month

Award-winning papers from ISI Affiliates

Invasive Plants and Ticks?

Invasive Plants have the potential to enhance tick-borne diseases

UF Blog: Invasion Science

  • by Maria Quirico
    As spring approaches, gardeners often rush to buy whatever they can find to fill a butterfly garden with color. But the best butterfly gardens contain as many native plants as possible to attract butterflies and other pollinators. Butterflies like to […]
  • by Meredith Bauer-Mitchell
    Highlights:  University of Florida awards $349,250 in Food is Medicine research funding through the PLANTMED Seed Funding Program.  New UF Food is Medicine projects advance nutrition science in areas including diabetes, cardiometabolic health, family wellbeing and Parkinson’s disease treatment.  UF launches statewide research innovations […]
  • by Suzette Cook
                UF/IFAS School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS) extension coordinators shared their expertise with local scouts in the inaugural Girl Scouts Jamboree held on Feb. 28 at UF Fisheries and Aquatics Sciences in […]

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