Biological Invasions as Global Environmental Change

Vitousek PM, D'Antonio CM, Loope LL, Westbrooks R. 1996. Biological Invasions as Global Environmental Change. American Scientist. 84(5):468-478

Argues that biological invasions have become so wide-spread that they constitute a significant component of global environmental change. Challenges two beliefs that help perpetuate this cycle: the idea that invasions are a natural process that has always been a part of evolutionary history; and the assumption that the ease of travel and the continued expansion of the global economy will make it impossible to prevent invasions. Identifies a need for improvements to legal frameworks that concern the control of exotic species; and suggests a need for greater public awareness of (and involvement in) this problem.

Type
Journal Article
Authors
Vitousek, Peter; D'Antonio, C; Loope, Lloyd; Westbrooks, Randy
Units
BICA , GRTE , HALE , YELL
Keywords
Animal Studies, Biodiversity, Biological Invasions, Ecosystems--Island, Global Climate Change, Plant Studies

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