Invasive Alien Species Disrupts Biodiversity, Livelihoods in Caribbean

Researchers warned of the impacts of invasive alien species (IAS) on the biodiversity and livelihoods in the Caribbean, indicating significant risks to human and animal health.

In the Caribbean, the region is considered home to various species and is rich in biodiversity. However, the arrival of IAS has posed a signficant threat to the Caribbean.

Invasive alien species impacts on the Caribbean's livelihood and biodiversity

Hero Rats — A stock photo of rats. A recent report says that invasive alien species in the Caribbean have devastated wildlife, human health, and economic development. These invasive species have affected the region's wildlife. Additionally, human health is affected by IAS, which can transmit harmful parasites or pathogens. Considering these potential concerns, there is a significant need to address and mitigate the emergence of invasive animals in the region. Without urgent efforts, these IAS can spread more, causing a devastating damage to the economy and wildlife, including coral reefs (Photo : Sanjay Kanojia/AFP via Getty Images)

In a recent report, researchers studied the threats of AIS in the Caribbean. The region is known to hold a diverse range of endemic species, including 11,000 unique plant species. Additionally, it has endemic vertebrate species, including 189 amphibians.

IAS has also been a major culprit in the 86% of island species extinctions since 1500 A.D. These species played a significant role in the extinction of native animals, including amphibians, mammals, and reptiles.

For instance, the introduction IAS (like cats and rats) has caused the decline and extinction of birds and mammals in the Caribbean.

Another aspect of discovery is its effect on human health. Researchers indicated that these invasive species can bring alarming health risks in many ways by bringing pathogens or acting as vectors of parasites or diseases. This leads to global health costs of over US $6.9 billion annually.

In addition to animal health concerns, the report raised concerns about the impacts on farmers' crops, livestock production, and economic development. Invasive species can significantly harm the supply of food. The global economy suffers from significant losses, reaching around US $70 billion annually, due to invasive insects.

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Urgent concerns and mitigation efforts

Considering the significant impacts of these invasive species on the following:

economy
human health
wildlife

There is an urgent need to address these issues. The report underscores the importance of prevention, early detection, and rapid response (EDDR) and control.

When these invasive species are controlled or prevented, the researchers noted an increase in biodiversity. This will better protect unique animals on the islands from population decline.

In addition, the report guide highlights the lack of information on invasive animal species in the Caribbean, indicating the threats of different alien species in the region.

Due to the concerning consequences of invasive species, the report findings can offer significant lessons and information needed for policy-making and controlling them. Controlling and mitigating the emergence of these species is essential because they outcompete other native species.