Invasive Species

Sound the alarm!! There are aliens among us, but not the type seen in science fiction movies. These aliens are organisms that come from around the world as well as from other regions of Canada. You may like to eat some of these alien species (e.g. corn and wheat); others may be growing in your garden (e.g. Lily of the valley and periwinkle); and some may come to your bird feeder (e.g. European starling and house finch).

• Invasive Plants
• Buckthorn Factsheet (pdf file)
• Emerald Ash Borer
• A Guide to Native Woody Plant Selection for Middlesex County (pdf file) - This guide lists woody species (trees, shrubs and vines) that are native to Middlesex County and thus suitable for rehabilitation projects or for any gardener. There are also lists of species that are not recommended due to their rarity and those that are alien to the county.

Most alien or non-native species peacefully co-exist with the plants and animals native to our region. In fact, about 27% of the organisms found in southern Ontario come from outside the region. But when non-native species aggressively spread and take over, they can harm the environment, the economy, and human health. When non-native organisms become invasive, we all need to be concerned!

There are many ways for alien species to find their way into our region. Some are brought here deliberately but the majority are accidentally introduced. For example, early European settlers unintentionally brought the first alien invaders to North America – the Norway rat, influenza and smallpox. Today, most alien species and diseases are transported with goods or people that are moving locally, nationally or internationally. Recreational activities such as boating, fishing and gardening are also significant pathways. Zebra Mussels, for example, first arrived in the Great Lakes in ballast water carried by ships from Asia. Boaters and anglers have since unintentionally helped these tiny creatures spread, carrying them on boats and equipment from contaminated water bodies. The Emerald Ash Borer is another invader that's been getting a lot of attention lately.

Environmental groups and agencies have long been concerned about the impact of alien invaders on humans, habitats and other organisms. The spread of invasive alien species is a serious matter that affects the human health as well as ecosystem health.

Do you have an aquarium or a water garden? If so, please fill out the Great Canadian On-Line Survey!