Invasive Mussels Threaten Boats, Waters At Yellowstone National Park With Potential Ecological Damage

The recent reports raised concerns about the emergence of highly aquatic invasive species at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Montana to avoid potential impacts on other species and ecology in the region.

The National Park Service (NWS) looked for ways to mitigate and prevent the alarming spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) at the park. The report detected highly invasive zebra and quagga mussels, fearing possible ecological damage to wildlife and waterways.

The report highlights the urgency of addressing the invasive mussels at the park, which could lead to serious environmental consequences. Effective mitigation efforts can rapidly contain and remove the invasive species.

Highly Invasive Species Impacting the Park

The park is home to various recreational and outdoor activities, with a spectacular view of wildlife. As a result, protecting waterways is crucial to avoid clogging of pipes and boat engine failure or destruction.

Unlike native species, invasive species or animals can multiply and cause the decline of native animals, causing potential extinction and economic harm. They can also alter habitats and ruin the biodiversity of native organisms.

NPS explains that mussels can lead to irreversible ecological damage in waterways in the Colorado River Basin, Eastern US, and Midwest. Meanwhile, mussels can attach themselves to watercraft and likely transport to other areas of oceans or waters

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Parasitic Wasps To Act as Biological Control Against Invasive Avian Vampire Fly

With the increasing threats to Darwin's flinches population, experts from the University of Minnesota are thinking of using biological control to control the invasive avian vampire fly, Philornis downsi.

According to recent reports, Darwin flinches are mostly found in the Galapagos Islands. However, the species is under threat due to the following:

Habitat loss or habitat destruction
Diseases
Predators
Invasive parasitic fly Philornis downsi

The avian vampire fly poses a significant risk to the population of Darwin's flinch on the Galapagos Islands. The widespread invasive species can impact the nests of said bird species by laying eggs, potentially damaging the animals' nestlings.

To save the species from decline, the researchers looked for ways to mitigate the impacts of invasive species in the region. The report is considering the release of a biological control of a parasitic wasp, known as C. annulifera. The findings can be found in the Conservation and Diversity journal.

In addition, the researchers raised concerns about the need to study the dynamics of endemic species and the effects of human activity on the Galapagos Islands. The parasitoid species can act as an effective biological control to prevent the avian vampire fly.

According to a UNESCO report, Galapagos Island is recognized as a living museum that is a crucial place for wildlife, particularly marine species. The area, with 19 islands, can be found near the Pacific Ocean and 1,000 km from Ecuador.