Evolution of “Super-Invasive” Cane Toads
The cane toad (Rhinella marina) has become invasive in much of its introduced range, impacting significantly on biodiversity in these regions. Not only does the cane toad prey upon and compete with native species, it also produces a potent toxin that can be deadly to would-be predators. Nowhere is the impact of the cane toad…
The economic impact of invasive species on Great Britain revealed
A report, written by CABI for the Scottish government, Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government, estimates the cost of invasive non-native species to Great Britain in unprecedented detail. Invasive non-native species can have wide-ranging effects on biodiversity, crop production and people’s livelihoods. A better understanding of the negative impacts of invasive species will help to…
Biological control of Mikania micrantha: Have we found the silver bullet?
Mikania micrantha (mile-a-minute weed or South American Climber) is a major invasive alien weed in many of the tropical moist forest regions of Asia. This neotropical vine is able to smother plants in agricultural ecosystems, agroforestry and native habitats. Conventional control methods of manual removal (slashing) or herbicide application, are expensive, ineffective, not sustainable, and…