Twelve InvasIve specIes of HIgH concern In vIrgInIa

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Photo credits: cover: Emerald ash borer, David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org right: Rusty crayfish, Chris Lukhaup
TWElVE INVASIVE SPECIES Of HIGH CONCERN IN VIRGINIA What are invasive species? Invasive species are non-native (also known as alien, exotic or nonindigenous) plants, animals and pathogens that cause or are likely to cause ecological disruption, economic losses or harm to humans. How did they get here? Ever-increasing globalization and international trade have opened the floodgates for intentional and accidental introductions of invasive species to Virginia from all over the world. Intentional introductions include plants for gardens, erosion control, and food for both livestock and people. Accidental introductions can be found as “stowaways” in ship ballast water, hidden in shipping crates, mixed in with plant materials from other parts of the world, and attached as “hitchhikers” on travelers’ clothes, luggage and vehicles. Why should you be concerned? Invasive species spread aggressively and displace or destroy both native and commercially cultivated plants and animals. After habitat alteration, invasive species are the greatest threat to natural systems, agriculture and aquaculture. Annually, invasive species cost Virginia more than $1 billion, while nationally the toll exceeds $120 billion. Invasive species damage and degrade crops, pasture and forestlands, clog waterways, spread human and livestock diseases, and destroy urban street trees. Twelve Invasive Species of High Concern in Virginia 1
Page 1: VIRGINIA INVASIVE SPECIES WORKING G
Page 5 and 6: What more can be done? The most eff
Page 7 and 8: Keep out! Keep out! Zebra mussel (D
Page 9 and 10: Keep out! Chinese mitten crab (Erio
Page 11 and 12: Go away! Go away! Rapa whelk (Rapan
Page 13 and 14: Go away! Phragmites (Phragmites aus
Page 15 and 16: The Virginia Invasive Species Worki

Twelve InvasIve specIes of HIgH concern In vIrgInIa

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