What Makes an Invasive?

Why are some non-native species so invasive?

Most species that are transported to new areas never become invasive. However, those that do become invasive can have devastating ecological and economic impacts.

Species most likely to become invasive usually have one or more of these characteristics, which facilitate their rapid spreading and high abundance:

  • Can survive in a wide variety of habitat conditions or environments
  • Are a pioneer species
  • Grow to maturity rapidly
  • Reproduce prolifically, such as through large numbers of seeds, shoots or offspring
  • Are good hitch-hikers
  • Lack natural enemies or pests in the new habitats
  • Can tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions
© Barry Rice, sarracenia.com, Bugwood.org

Purple loosestrife. © Barry Rice, sarracenia.com, Bugwood.org