What are invasive species in the context of forestry?

Invasive species, in the context of forestry, refer to non-native organisms that can cause significant harm to local ecosystems. These species typically thrive in new environments due to a lack of natural predators or diseases that would otherwise control their populations in their native habitats. As a result, they can outcompete native species for resources such as light, water, and nutrients, leading to declines in biodiversity.

The presence of invasive species can disrupt ecological balance, alter habitat structures, and negatively impact species that rely on the native flora and fauna for survival. This can have cascading effects on entire ecosystems, including changes to soil composition, water quality, and the availability of habitat for wildlife. Understanding and identifying invasive species is critical for forest management and conservation efforts, as effective control and prevention strategies can help protect native biodiversity and maintain healthy forest ecosystems.