INVASIVE SPECIES
WHAT ARE INVASIVE SPECIES ?
Invasive Species in Wolf Prairie: Scientific Name: Triadica Sebifera Native Region: China Alters light availability for for other plants Grows quickly (30 - 45 feet high) - Reduces Habitat Scientific Name: Cardiospermum Halicacabum Native Region: Central and South America Kills native vegetation because of thick coverings Fast growing- Up to 36 feet |
OUR BIGGER PRAIRIE
Other Invasive Species in Wolf Prairie:
Scientific Name: Solenopsis Invicta Native Region: South America Cause stings on humans, pets, and wildlife Build large nests (dirt mounds) around trees Scientific Name: Rosa bracteata Native Region: China Forms dense thickets which displace native grasses Vegetative sprouting results in colonization |
What's the problem? They're pretty.
- Invasive species can out- compete native species
- Invasive species decrease the amount habitat for native species
- Invasive species are very difficult and costly to eliminate
METHODS OF PREVENTION:
- Be aware! When you buy plants for your home, buy native plants. Take the time to make sure the plants belong here!
- Don't release pets to the wild - When it's time for that fish, snake or bird that was such a cute pet to move out of your home, take time to find a new home with another person. Releasing animals into the wild has caused ecosystem destruction.
- Lacey Act- Provides the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services to have the authority screen animals for invasiveness
- Wildlife Management- Replanting native species, physically removing invasive species (Cutting down Chinese Tallow in Wolf Prairie)
- Restricting the importation of plants and animals
Sources:
The Quiet Invasion Book
http://www.prairiefirenewspaper.com/2010/05/invasive-species
http://www.nature.org
http://www.nwrc.usgs.gov/releases/pr99_026.htm
http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Threats-to-Wildlife/Invasive-Species.asp
http://www.texasinvasives.org/plant_database/detail.php?symbol=ROBR