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

  • Climate Smart Gardening in Duval County
    by Tonya Ashworth
    When people imagine Florida weather, they think of sunshine and sea breezes, warm weather year-round, gentle afternoon rain showers, and the occasional tropical storm. But our little slice of Florida, in the far northeastern corner of the state, experiences a […]
  • Space Bread – Deep Space Food Challenge Entry
    by Al Williamson
    UF/IFAS CALS PhD Student Enters the Space (Bread) Race Hope Hersh, a PhD student in the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural and Life Sciences’ Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology program has entered a different type of space race. In this instance, […]
  • Included Bark: A hidden branch defect
    by Larry Figart
    Last week a large limb broke away from a mature live oak in a back yard in the Arlington neighborhood of Jacksonville during heavy wind associated with a thunderstorm.  Unfortunately, it damaged the tree significantly.  However, it has also provided […]

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