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Published on: March 9, 2021
Alien species in a warmer world: risks and opportunities
Gian-Reto Walther1, Alain Roques, Philip E Hulme
1Department of Plant Ecology, University of Bayreuth, University Street 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany. gian-reto.ealther@uni.bayreuth.de
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|August 29, 2009
Summary
Global warming facilitates the spread of invasive alien species into new regions, impacting biodiversity. Management strategies for these new species vary, from eradication to acceptance as biodiversity enrichments.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Biodiversity Science
- Climate Change Research
Background:
- Climate change and biological invasions are significant drivers of global biodiversity loss.
- These two processes have historically been studied in isolation, limiting a comprehensive understanding of their interactions.
- Global warming is creating new opportunities for alien species to establish and thrive in previously inhospitable environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss how climate change influences biological invasions across various taxa (plants, invertebrates, fishes, birds).
- To highlight the interconnectedness of climate-mediated invasions within dynamic ecological contexts of shifting ranges and communities.
- To explore diverse management approaches for alien species in the face of climate change.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review focusing on climate-mediated biological invasions.
- Analysis of invasion patterns across different taxonomic groups.
- Discussion of the ecological implications of alien species establishment under changing climatic conditions.
Main Results:
- Climate change demonstrably enables alien species to expand their ranges into novel regions.
- Alien species play a dynamic role in ecosystems experiencing range shifts and community restructuring.
- The ecological impact of alien species is context-dependent, influenced by climate and existing community composition.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of biological invasions requires an integrated approach that considers climate change.
- Management strategies should be flexible, ranging from eradication to embracing certain alien species for ecosystem services.
- Understanding the interplay between climate change and invasions is crucial for conserving global biodiversity.
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