Mammal invaders on islands: impact, control and control impact

摘要: The invasion of ecosystems by exotic species is currently viewed as one the most important sources biodiversity loss. largest part this loss occurs on islands, where indigenous have often evolved in absence strong competition, herbivory, parasitism or predation. As a result, introduced thrive those optimal insular affecting their plant food, competitors animal prey. islands are characterised high rate endemism, impacted populations correspond to local subspecies even unique species. One taxa concerning biological invasions mammals. A small number mammal responsible for damage invaded ecosystems: rats, cats, goats, rabbits, pigs and few others. effect alien invasive may be simple very complex, especially since large array species, mammals others, can present simultaneously interact among themselves well with In cases, generally impact they impoverishment flora fauna. best response these effects almost always control population, either regularly reducing numbers, better still, eradicating population whole from island. Several types methods used: physical (trapping, shooting), chemical (poisoning) (e.g. directed use diseases). Each has its own set advantages disadvantages, depending targeted. strategy combine several methods. Whatever used, long-term success critically dependent solid support different areas, including financial support, staff commitment, public name only few. many elimination followed rapid spectacular recovery populations. However, other removal not sufficient damaged ecosystem revert former state, complementary actions, such re-introduction, required. third situation widespread: sudden generate further disequilibrium, resulting greater ecosystem. Given numerous complex interactions island it difficult predict outcome key top predator. This justifies careful pre-control study preparation prior initiating eradication an order avoid ecological catastrophe. addition, monitoring post-eradication crucial assess prevent reinvasion.