Invasive Alien Species Strategy (Northern Ireland)
Non-native species are those that have been introduced, either intentionally or unintentionally, outside their natural range. Many of these non-native species live in harmony with our native species causing no adverse impacts. However a few non-native species have become known as ‘invasive’ as they thrive in our habitats and out-compete our native flora and fauna.
Impact on the environment
Non-native invasive species are also known as invasive alien species.
They are widely recognised as one of the biggest threats to our native biodiversity, second only to that caused by habitat destruction. They not only have negative environmental impacts, but they can also adversely impact on recreational activities such as walking, boating, fishing, swimming and various other water-based leisure pursuits.
They can also have serious associated economic costs. Once an invasive species has established within a habitat it can spread rapidly, out-competing native species.The spread of most invasive plant species is by plant fragments or seed.
Invertebrates or mammals can move independently within aquatic or terrestrial habitats or hitch rides on the hulls of boats or on equipment.
Northern Ireland has been subject to the impacts of many invasive alien species. Within a relatively short time-scale we have already witnessed the establishment of species which are currently having a detrimental effect upon our local biodiversity.
An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Northern Ireland
In response to the threats posed by invasive alien species the Department of Environment has published ‘An Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Northern Ireland’. The aim of the Strategy is to minimise the risk posed, and reduce the negative impacts caused, by invasive alien species in Northern Ireland, increasing awareness and understanding of the risks and issues involved in tackling invasive alien species is a central overarching issue.