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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
06:48
Assessing Intertidal Populations of the Invasive European Green Crab
Published on: September 16, 2020
Defining an invasive species
1Agence Française de Sécurite Sanitaire des Aliments, Laboratoire d'Etudes et de Recherches en Pathologie Animale et Zoonoses, 23 Avenue du Général-de-Gaulle, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France.
Summary
Defining invasive species requires considering human impact and ecological context. Intentional introductions of domestic animals, wildlife, and microbes highlight the varied consequences, including significant health risks.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Biogeography
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- Human activities have led to widespread species introductions globally.
- The definition of invasive species is often observer-dependent and context-specific.
- Historical and contemporary species movements have profound ecological implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore various definitions of invasive species.
- To analyze intentional species transport cases (domestic animals, wildlife, microorganisms).
- To support definitions with practical examples and ecological perspectives.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical and contemporary species transport examples.
- Analysis of intentional introductions for pest control and other purposes.
- Comparison of biogeographical and ecological definitions of invasiveness.
Main Results:
- Intentional introductions of domestic animals, wild species, and microbes are common.
- Biogeographical and ecological definitions offer complementary perspectives on invasiveness.
- Species movements have diverse consequences, with health impacts being critical.
Conclusions:
- A practical, context-aware definition of invasive species is needed.
- Human-mediated species transport necessitates careful consideration of ecological and health impacts.
- Understanding species movement dynamics is crucial for conservation and biosecurity.
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