News Release

Bioinvasion ecology: 'Biological Invasions in Aquatic and Terrestrial Systems'

An up-to-date compendium of research on aquatic and terrestrial non-indigenous species

Book Announcement

De Gruyter

Biological invasions take place when species are deliberately or accidentally introduced and become established in environments that they have not previously occupied. These so-called 'invasive species' may set in, spread and ecologically alter the invaded community. Biological invasions by animals, plants, pathogens or vectors are one of the greatest environmental and economic challenges and, along with habitat destruction, a leading cause of global biodiversity loss.

New book: Biological Invasions in Changing Ecosystems by João Canning-Clode, presents a clear and accessible understanding of biological invasions, its impacts, patterns and mechanisms in both aquatic and terrestrial systems. It demonstrates the latest theories and models, including data and examples of the most influential vectors of invasions in marine invertebrates, vascular plants, freshwater fishes, insects, amphibians and reptiles. The authors give examples of case studies from various ecosystems, showing the role of anthropogenic activities in biological invasions as well as their potential impacts on the local ecosystems.

The unique feature of this volume lies in its effort to explore the potential linkage between climate change and invasive species both in the marine and terrestrial environments. The authors provide the critical appraisal of the use of emerging tools for the study of biological invasions such as molecular tools.

Environmental biologists argue that invasive species pose one of the most important global threats to ecosystems, often spreading quickly through their new habitat so that native species become vulnerable. It is no wonder, the increasing recognition of the invasion-related problem has resulted in a rapid growth of research into the dynamics of non-native species and their effects on native ecosystems. Says Dr. Erkki Leppäkoski from the Åbo Akademi University in Finland and Chief Editor of Invasive Aquatic Species of Europe. Distribution, Impacts and Management: "The editors and contributors to this book have created an excellent resource for scientists, professionals and students of invasion biology. This broad-scoped volume covers central themes in invasion biology from biogeography and vectors for spread of invasive animals and plants to parasites and genetics. I am pleased to recommend this very comprehensive and timely publication to all of us in all disciplines within invasion biology."

The book is available fully in open access to read, download and share on De Gruyter Online.

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