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

Outstanding Publication Award

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 Liah Continentino
    Palm trees are among the most hurricane-tolerant landscape plants in Florida, yet they are often subjected to one of the most common pruning mistakes. If you have a palm in your yard, you have surely heard about the “hurricane cut.” […]
  • by Yilin Zhuang
    Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Septic System 101 webinar, hosted by the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Well Owner Network (FWON). This was the second webinar in our Private Well and Septic System Webinar Series, and we appreciated […]
  • by Alicia Betancourt
    Have you ever stood in the produce section and actually looked at where your food came from? I do this more often than I probably should. I’ll pick up a tomato, turn it over and look for the little sticker. […]

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