A species can be introduced into an ecosystem outside of its native range through several pathways including natural dispersal, movement of infested wood products (i.e. firewood), within ballast water of commercial shipping vessels, or even through intentional activities (i.e. gardening and horticulture).
Many of these ‘non-native’ or ‘exotic’ species introductions have very little impact on the local environment and ecosystem. However, when a species is introduced to an ecosystem outside of its native range AND has the potential to impact the ecology, economy, or society in its introduced range, the species is considered INVASIVE. Invasive species possess the ability to outcompete and overwhelm native species in its introduced range.
| What Are They? |
Invasive species can be plants, animals, and micro-organisms. Visit Ontario’s Invading Species Awareness Program to learn more about:
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| Pathways |
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The term pathway is used to identify the physical means by which an invasive species is transported to a new region by humans, either deliberately or accidentally. Some of the most common invasive species pathways include:
To learn more about invasive species pathways and what you can do to prevent the spread of invasive species please visit the Invading Species Awareness Program website. |
| Impacts of Invasive Species |
Invasive species can cause immeasurable impacts and can:
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| What Can You Do? |
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To learn more about the types of invasive species please visit the Invasive Species Centre or Invading Species Awareness Program website.
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