Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “Thousands of baby cane toads infiltrate Gold Coast following wet, humid weather conditions.” ABC News, Dec 18, 2023, https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-12-19/cane-toads-in-breeding-frenzy-after-wet-humid-weather/103244718.

The cane toad of Australia is an invasive species, which amidst wet and humid weather conditions, laid thousands of baby cane toads which has infiltrated the Gold Coast, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. The cane toad (Rhinella marina), native to South and Central America, has long been a notorious invasive species in Australia, wreaking havoc on native wildlife and ecosystems. The recent influx of juvenile toads highlights the ongoing challenges posed by their prolific breeding and rapid spread across the continent. With their toxic skin secretions and endless appetites, cane toads pose significant ecological threats, preying on native fauna and disrupting delicate ecological balances. Efforts to control their population and mitigate their impacts on native biodiversity remain critical, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and proactive management strategies in combatting this invasive species such as culling methods.

The invasion of baby cane toads onto the Gold Coast underscores the urgency of addressing the cane toad problem in Australia. Despite various control measures implemented over the years, including culling programs and biological control methods, the cane toad population continues to expand, posing persistent challenges for conservationists and environmental managers. The recent surge in juvenile toads serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of this invasive species, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to effectively manage their spread. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, researchers, and local communities are essential for implementing targeted control measures, raising public awareness, and protecting vulnerable ecosystems from the detrimental impacts of cane toads. Only through concerted action and sustained commitment can Australia hope to mitigate the ecological damage inflicted by this invasive amphibian and safeguard its unique biodiversity for future generations.

CBS News. “What to know about giant hogweed: Flowers can cause burns, blisters, scars.” CBS News, jun 27, 2023. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-to-know-about-giant-hogweed-flowers-can-cause-burns-blisters-scars/.

Here’s what to know about giant hogweed sheds light on the invasive nature of giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) and the significant health risks it poses to humans. While the plant’s large and attractive flowers may catch the eye, its invasive characteristics and toxic sap present grave dangers to unsuspecting individuals. The article explains the urgent need for public awareness about giant hogweed as an invasive species, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and avoiding contact with this plant to prevent painful skin reactions and lasting scars.

By highlighting the invasive nature of giant hogweed and its potential health impacts, CBS underscores the broader ecological and public health implications of invasive species. The article serves as a timely reminder of the critical importance of managing invasive plant species to protect both human health and native ecosystems. Through education and outreach efforts, individuals can better understand the risks associated with giant hogweed and take proactive measures to limit its spread and mitigate its harmful effects. Ultimately, the article underscores the importance of collective action in addressing the threat of invasive species, urging communities to work together to slow the spread of harmful plants like giant hogweed and preserve the health and integrity of natural environments for future generations.

Axios. “Murder Hornets have been AWOL for the Past Year.” Axios, 19 July 2023, www.axios.com/local/seattle/2023/07/19/murder-hornets-washington-state.
https://www.axios.com/local/seattle/2023/07/19/murder-hornets-washington-state

The ongoing absence of murder hornets (Vespa mandarinia) from monitoring efforts raises concerns about their potential impacts on ecosystems and agricultural industries. Originally detected in the Pacific Northwest, murder hornets have garnered attention for their potential threat to honeybee populations and human health due to their venomous sting. The lack of sightings and difficulty in tracking these invasive insects highlight the challenges of managing and controlling their spread. As murder hornets remain elusive, there is growing uncertainty about the effectiveness of current monitoring and control measures. The potential consequences of their reintroduction underscore the importance of active strategies in addressing invasive species, emphasizing the need for continued research, collaboration, and vigilant monitoring to mitigate their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems.

The absence of murder hornets over the past year acts as an example of the complex challenges posed by invasive species and the importance of proactive management strategies. As highlighted in the article, the uncertain status of murder hornets raises questions about the effectiveness of existing monitoring and control efforts, signifying the need for continued research and collaboration in addressing invasive species threats. Invasive species can have profound impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, and human health, making them a significant concern for the environmental science community. Moving forward, it is crucial to prioritize efforts to prevent the spread of invasive species, develop innovative management strategies, and enhance public awareness to mitigate their negative impacts effectively. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and adaptive management approaches, we can work towards minimizing the threats posed by invasive species and safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Parvin, F. (2023, November 23). Bangladesh survey records invasive alien plants threatening protected forests Retrieved February 9, 2024, from https://news.mongabay.com/2023/10/bangladesh-survey-records-invasive-alien-plants-threatening-protected-forests/ 

A survey reveals 44 invasive plant species with 7 being harmful, all in 5 five Bangladesh forests. Two foreign plants were introduced to Bangladesh in 1980 in an attempt to gain profits, but today the other five species can be seen in the market and are used for ornamental reasons. These invasive plants are planted around houses, despite the threat they pose to the local environment, one plant known as the “yellow dot” plant (Sphagneticola trilobata) is even poisonous to children and animals. This poisonous plant poses a risk to animals who come in contact with the plant, ultimately disrupting the ecosystem. Also, The 7 invasive plants compete with native plants, and this alters the population of native species and hurts their biodiversity. The survey was intended to improve the identification of invasive species, prevent invasive species from being introduced and spread, as well as raise awareness. 

The article addresses the impact of invasive species and the importance of protecting ecosystems. The article talked about the interactions between exotic and native species, as well as how humans and markets have introduced invasive plants to ecosystems in Bangladesh. I found the article informative and find that it’s right and important that the Bangladesh government is taking steps to protect their native species and restore ecosystems. 

Joshi, A. (2023, November 23). Nepal’s water hyacinth helps exotic fish invade, harming native species: Study Retrieved January 27, 2024, from https://news.mongabay.com/2023/11/nepals-water-hyacinth-helps-exotic-fish-invade-harming-native-species-study/ 

A study testing the impact of invasive plant species water hyacinth on exotic fish species in Pokhara, Nepal suggests that the invasive plant is helping exotic fish invade lakes, which is resulting in less biodiversity and a damaged food web.  The study suggests that lakes in Pokhara, Nepal are in danger, and native fish populations are plummeting.  The source of the problem is humans. Humans have used up the land and have caused water pollution. Also, Exotic fish such as Nile tilapia and glassfish were introduced to these lakes by humans, and the invasive plant as well. Luckily change is being implemented, and the Nepal Supreme Court has made policies regarding this matter. On September 28 Nepal’s supreme court issued that all human-made landmarks within 65 meters of the banks of Fewa Lake in Pokhara will be removed. Also, methods are being implemented to remove the invasive plant water hyacinth, for example, uprooting devices are being implemented, but the problem is far from being resolved, and native fish species continue to struggle.  

The article addresses the urgency of controlling the spread of invasive species and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The study showed how exotic fish hurt aquatic ecosystems by providing competition for native fish, and in this case, the additional invasive plant water hyacinth aids in the survival and spread of exotic fishes, showing how invasive species pose immense threats to food webs in ecosystems. But the article also shed light on human impact, and how water pollution has made matters worse. Overall because of humans these lakes face danger, and it’s up to humans to solve this issue. Luckily changes are being made so hopefully water quality will improve, and research will be developed. However, the success of these lakes depends on the success of human conservation efforts, ultimately highlighting the importance of acting early on invasive species and preventing their spread.

Regan, H. (2023, September 5).  Invasive species cost the world $423 billion every year and are causing environmental chaos, UN report finds. Retrieved January 27, 2024, from https://www.cnn.com/2023/09/05/world/invasive-species-global-threat-report-climate-scn-intl-hnk/index.html 

Every year $432 Billion is spent because of invasive species, as well as 200 new invasive species are introduced every year. Preventing damage caused by invasive species has been very costly and has quadrupled every decade. Even if so much money is being spent, it’s used for a good cause. The $432 Billion has protected the extinction of crops and animals, as well as food security. So without efforts, it’s safe to say that the dangers of invasive species would set back our economy as well as our society. Currently, 37,000 invasive species are known, and out of all those species 3500 stand out as being a  “Severe global threat.” These 3500 species can potentially disrupt agriculture on a global scale by destroying native crops, polluting waterways, and spreading disease. Scientists and researchers believe that the invasive species threat is worsening alongside climate change. So just like with climate change governments are taking action against invasive species and making sure biodiversity is not at threat by invasive species. 

I found it impressive how much money is spent on invasive species, but I believe it’s for the better good, and benefits our economy and society. Globally I hope we continue addressing invasive species and striving in research and development that can help aid our ecosystems and prevent crop loss and biodiversity loss by invasive species. This article gave interesting statistics about invasive species, and ultimately addressed their devastating impacts It talked about how biodiversity is put in danger by the introduction of new invasive species, as well as how our billion-dollar efforts have helped mitigate climate change. The article made sure to address how scientists are working to address the threat of invasive species by developing solutions and policies to help eradicate and detect invasive species.

king, M. (2023, October 19).  DFO monitoring an invasive crayfish species found in N.S. lake. Retrieved January 27, 2024, from https://globalnews.ca/news/10036722/dfo-monitoring-an-invasive-crayfish-species-found-in-n-s-lake.

The Invasive species Procambarus clarkii, also known as the Red swamp crayfish, has been found in Canada for the first time in Three Miles Lake. The red swamp crayfish originates in north Mexico and the southern United States, they are a highly invasive generalist species. This species has posed many concerns about the overall health and function of several ecosystems, and unfortunately, damages in Canada can already be seen. The red swamp crayfish disrupts the land by burrowing, and competes with native crawfish for food and shelter,  posing difficulties for native crawfish, and food web stability. Fortunately, researchers are developing solutions, and have partnered with federal and provincial partners. Also, awareness has been raised and spread past Three Mile Lake,  and locals have been advised not to interfere and move the invasive Red swamp crawfish, to prevent the further spread of this invasive species. 

It’s surprising to me how a species can find itself so far from its native environment, but after further thought it makes sense, most of the time an invasive species finds themselves relocated because of some human influence. So it’s important we not only prevent invasive species from further damaging our ecosystem, but also make sure humans don’t disrupt wild animals, and make sure species aren’t moved around by vehicles. Overall the introduction of the Red swamp crayfish has posed a threat to a Canadian ecosystem disrupting its food web, the invasive species hurts the land and biodiversity of this ecosystem, and this not only has an impact on our environment but on climate change as well.

Bayles, T. (2023, August 17). Blueprint created for invasive species removal in Everglades. Retrieved September 5th, 2023, from https://news.wgcu.org/section/environment/2023-08-17/blueprint-created-for-invasive-species-removal-in-everglades

Scientists from the University of Florida after 10 years published a study on the removal of invasive species Spectacled caiman from the Eastern Everglades. Over those ten years, researchers worked on not only reducing the spread of Spectacled caiman, but also the removal of over 200 Spectacled caiman, and today this study provides a blueprint on how to deal with invasive species on a global scale. The researchers, satisfied with their efforts, continue on their project of removing invasive species by developing tools to locate caiman nests using thermal imaging.

This article showed innovative progress and that the health of ecosystems can be improved by humans removing invasive species. I believe that the article shed light on the importance of not only eradicating but monetization of invasive species. The article also made me think about how difficult it must be to not only monitor and dispatch potentially hostile reptiles, but also small ones like insects.