Invasive Species and Forest Ecosystem Effects
by Bonnie Millar

One of the major causes of biodiversity loss and species extinction today is the invasion or introduction of exotic or non-native species into an ecosystem.  Whether intentional or accidental, species introductions are a growing problem with today’s expanding global economy.  In the United States alone, there are over 4000 plant and 2000 animal species considered to be invasive.

This website examines the increasing problem of invasives, specifically focusing on impacts to forest ecosystems within the United States.  Six case studies illustrate the environmental and economic effects of non-native plants, insects and pathogens.  Included is a discussion of how invasions may shape the diversity and ecosystem functions of our forests in the future. 

Created April 2002 for BIO 217, Global Change and Ecology.