What is an Invasive Alien Species (IAS)?
Alien species refers to introduced plants, animals and microorganisms that are non-native to a particular ecosystem. These alien species are then termed invasive only when they establish themselves and spread outside their natural habitats, threatening the local biological diversity. Besides threatening the local biological diversity, invasive alien species are also capable of causing significant impacts to agricultural, forestry, fisheries, human health and economic losses.
Common characteristics of IAS include:
- Rapid production and growth
- High dispersal ability to move between places
- High adaptability to different food types and environmental conditions