5 Invasive Species Thriving Due to Climate Change and Their Effect on the Ecosystem According to Studies

Invasive species are thriving as a result of climate change and warmer temperatures, as revealed in recent studies.

Here are five of the invasive species identified in recent studies, along with how they affect US ecosystems.

Climate Change and Invasive Species in the US

In the United States, rising temperatures are facilitating a better chance of survival of some invasive species, which also results in the expansion of their habitats.

As a result, the threat to native wildlife populations and ecosystems has increased as more invasive species have spread across the country.

Five non-native species that like warmer conditions and have the potential to spread include the Burmese python, feral swine, Japanese beetle, hammerhead worm, and spotted lanternfly.

#1 Burmese Pythons in Florida

Warming temperatures will expand the habitats and boost the population growth of the spotted lanternfly, as shown in a recent study.

This pest can reproduce multiple times annually, irrespective of seasonal temperature fluctuations, leading to rapid population growth. It has infested 17 Northeastern states since its suspected arrival on a stone shipment from China in 2012.

Effect on the Ecosystem: By 2033, the spotted lanternfly may spread to California's grape-growing counties, endangering the beer and wine industries. The lanternflies also harm hardwood trees, hop crops, and apple trees.