Saving animals is usually a good thing, but when it comes to invasive species, the less, the merrier. Invasive species don’t just harm our environment—some prey on the very species that are key to our local ecosystems and economy.
Some of the most destructive non-native species in Florida, according to Florida Today:
BURMESE PYTHON
1
Burmese Pythons
These reptiles are primarily found in the Everglades and prey on endangered birds and their eggs, frogs and native snakes. The species began as pets that were released into the wild when they grew too big for owners to take care of.
2
Lionfish
found just yards off the coast, where you may spend your beach days. The lionfish was first introduced to United States’ waters in the early 2000s, most likely by “aquarium releases,” according to a 2016 report in the Marine Ecology Progress Series. This carnivorous fish has led to a great decline in coral reef dwelling native fish and invertebrates. This is creating a deleterious effect on the foundational species of many important coral reef ecosystems. To mitigate the rule of lionfish, people can purchase them to eat from local markets or even spearfish them for sport. If you decide to take on this more adventurous method, Kaufman suggests that you “learn how to properly handle the lionfish” because they have venomous spines. If spearfishing and lionfish aren’t your thing, you can still help combat these invasive species problems by implementing native plants in your outdoor spaces. Kaufman recommended visiting Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens. They give visitors free native plants to add to their home landscapes in order to attract native birds and insects.
The poisonous, spiny lionfish traveled into the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico all the way from its native home in the Pacific Ocean. They prey on smaller fish along coral reefs and seagrass beds, upsetting the balances of these ecosystems.
3
Iguanas
As one of the most prevalent species found throughout Florida, the iguana has continued to migrate northward. The reptile is known for damaging structures by burrowing and feeding on plants, snails and even bird eggs.
According to National Geographic, the Burmese Python has “beautifully patterned skin, rapid growth rate, and generally docile disposition.”
4
Feral Hogs
Although not as commonly seen throughout the urban areas of South Florida, Feral Hogs were transported here by European settlers in the 16th century. The species’ destructive nature of rooting underground causes damage to native ecosystems while also posing a threat to humans.
Winter 2020 DISTRACTION 31
