What are some invasive species in Antarctica?

  • Specimens of non-native species of flies, spiders, caterpillars, butterflies, wasps, beetles, moths, slugs, bugs, ants, moss and grass have been found in Antarctica over the years. Ground beetles, in particular, have been extremely invasive, preying on native insects.
  • In a study, scientists found that foreign plants such as annual bluegrass, chickweed and yellow bog sedge, were establishing themselves in Antarctica. They found that seeds and other detachable plant structures were stuck to cold-weather gear that travellers and researchers brought to the continent. Disturbingly, 49% to 61% of foreign plants that reach Antarctica are cold-adapted and can withstand and colonise in extreme conditions.
  • Scientists with the British Antarctic Survey have discovered that a species of fly originally from South Georgia – the chironomid midge, has flourished since its accidental introduction to Signy Island in the Antarctic in the 1960s. It has expanded to more than 650 feet away from its original site, and in some areas is more numerous than any of the native insects. The fly likely travelled unnoticed on the plants brought to Antarctica for research. In the 1990s and early 2000s, its population started to explode.
  • Some species do manage to arrive by other natural means. But it is humans who bring in 99% of invasive species, say scientists.
  • Transport of invasive species can be minimized by careful cleaning and checking of clothing, footwear, construction materials, food, equipment and vehicles sent to Antarctica.

 

Picture Credit : Google