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Invasive Species in Aquatic Ecosystems: Threats to Our Waterways

Invasive species are impacting environments and ecosystems around the world, but invasive species in the ocean are particularly detrimental. Marine invasive species are becoming an increasingly complex problem that must be addressed by the leading scientific experts of today. 

Introduction: The Silent Invasion 

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Invasive Species Information Center, invasive species are defined as non-native plants and animals that have entered an environment where they would not normally exist, and also have the potential to significantly disrupt the population. In a new ecosystem, many invasive species have no natural predators, and therefore, they can reproduce frequently and overtake the habitat. This then impacts the food sources and the living spaces of the native species who have long called that environment home. 

Invasive species of all types threaten biodiversity in local ecosystems, and they also can have a detrimental impact on human health and economies worldwide. That said, invasive species in the ocean are particularly challenging, as it’s incredibly easy for them to spread rapidly through interconnected waterways. 

Pathways of Introduction: How Invaders Arrive 

Marine invasive species can infiltrate new, non-native environments through various pathways, including ballast water from ships, aquaculture, and accidental release. Understanding these methods is key to preventing their spread and protecting marine ecosystems. 

Ballast Water 

As one of the most common pathways of invasive species in the ocean, ballast water inadvertently introduces invasive species to new environments. Freighter ships that go from port to port around the globe unintentionally release non-native aquatic species through their ballast water, which is released into ports that may be far from the species’ point of origin. 

Aquaculture and Aquarium Tide 

Aquaculture and aquarium facilities sometimes unintentionally release non-native species from their facilities into the local ecosystems, ultimately disrupting the local marine ecosystems. In some cases, species escape from these facilities, but the risk level remains the same. 

Recreational Boating and Fishing 

Even smaller vessels, such as recreational boats and fishing fleets, can transport invasive species between bodies of water. Today’s mariners can travel farther than ever before, ultimately increasing the risk of transporting invasive species along the way. 

Canals and Waterways 

Artificial waterways, such as canals that connect large bodies of water together, can serve as pathways for invasive species. These artificial waterways give invasive species an easy path to a new environment that they would not otherwise have had access to. 

Climate Change 

Rising global temperatures are making the oceans warmer, which is leading to changing conditions and more frequent, intense storms. These disruptions may disperse invasive species in the ocean to different ecosystems around the world. 

Impacts of Invasive Species: A Cascade of Consequences 

Invasive marine species are more than just an inconvenience — they can be incredibly disruptive to the local environment. Invasive species outcompete with native species, ultimately taking over their food and habitat resources while evading natural predators in that food web. This can lead to an array of ecological, economic and human health consequences. 

Ecological Impacts 

The ecological impacts of invasive species extend beyond the native species and into the ecosystem itself. The most significant ecological impacts of invasive species in the ocean include: 

  • Predation — Invasive predators can have a significant detrimental impact on native populations, increasing the risk of extinction of prey species. 
  • Competition — Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources. 
  • Habitat Alteration — The activity and lifestyle of native species can change the physical structure of local habitats. 
  • Disease Transmissions — Invasive species can introduce new diseases to populations within the ecosystem. 

Economic Impacts 

The economic impact of the spread of invasive species around the world is surprisingly significant. A 2021 study revealed that invasive species in North America have cost the economy more than $26 billion per year. Marine invasive species impact the economy by damaging local aquaculture and subsequently reducing yields for fisheries, clogging waterways and damaging infrastructure that must be repaired, and increasing the cost of managing and controlling invasive species populations. 

Human Health Impacts 

The National Invasive Species Information Center notes that some invasive marine species can threaten human health and well-being by being vectors for new diseases or by injuring humans through bites or venomous stings. Additionally, they can indirectly impact human health by disrupting ecosystems that typically provide clean water and nutritious food. 

Spotlight on Marine Invasive Species 

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History reveals some of the most prevalent marine invasive species: 

  • Lionfish — These voracious predators are disrupting coral reef ecosystems throughout the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. 
  • European Green Crab — This highly-adaptable crab feasts on native shellfish. Its activities are disrupting coastal habitats in North and South America as well as in Asia and Australia. 
  • Killer Algae (Caulerpa taxifolia) — This fast-growing seaweed smothers native plants, ultimately eliminating food and habitat for species in the local ecosystem. It escaped from private aquariums and is currently spreading throughout the Mediterranean Sea. 
  • Zebra Mussels & Quagga Mussels — These freshwater mussels outcompete with native mussels, and they also clog pipes and damage infrastructure along the coast. The species first invaded the Great Lakes but has now spread to waterways throughout the northeastern United States. 

Combating Invasive Species: Prevention and Control 

Recognizing the far-reaching consequences, scientists, environmental activists and government leaders are working together to combat invasive species in the ocean and around the world. 

Prevention 

Some of the preventative measures being taken to curb the spread of invasive species include: 

  • Imposing stricter regulations on ballast water management. 
  • Improving biosecurity measures in aquaculture. 
  • Expanding public education and outreach. 

Early Detection and Rapid Response 

Intense monitoring and surveillance efforts also allow for early detection and rapid response. Today, when an invasive species is discovered, rapid response teams are employed to contain new populations before they can become well-established. This is helping to reduce new outbreaks of invasive species around the world. 

Control and Management 

Efforts are ongoing to control and manage the populations of marine invasive species that exist today. Control and management efforts include: 

  • Physically removing invasive species. 
  • Utilizing chemical and biological control methods to reduce population numbers. 
  • Working to restore habitats to promote the recovery of native species. 

Conclusion: Protecting Our Aquatic Ecosystems 

Invasive species in the ocean and in lakes around the world pose major threats to our aquatic ecosystems. By proactively working to prevent the arrival of invasive species and controlling these populations, marine biologists can protect the local environment and preserve the habitats of the native species who once thrived in those areas. 

If you are interested in having an impact on the local environment, and you are passionate about controlling the spread of marine invasive species, then now is the best to consider an online baccalaureate degree in Marine Biology and Sustainable Aquaculture or an MS in Marine Conservation Biology. At Unity Environmental University, we offer environmental degree programs designed for individuals who want to make a difference. 

Request more information today.  

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