Invasion Science Research Initiative (ISRI)
Introduction of species to non-native areas is a consequence of globalization and anthropogenic change — whether introductions are intentional or accidental. Most introductions are neutral or even beneficial (agricultural crops), but some result in invasions with effects ranging from substantial loss of biodiversity and ecosystem functions, to reductions in food security and human health risks.
Two questions have been central to the field of invasion science for more than 50 years:
- Which traits of species contribute most to invasion risk?
- What characteristics enhance ecosystem susceptibility to invasion?
To uncover mechanisms driving species invasions — and to improve predictions of which non-native species are likely to establish and spread — we need to develop integrative frameworks for how non-native species interact with other species in both natural and anthropogenic ecosystems (urban landscapes or agriculture).
- Learn more about Invasive Species Program Needs
