Invasive species are wreaking havoc on African wetlands to the tune of billions of dollars per year, according to a new study by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). For example, the water hyacinth, introduced from the Amazon Basin as an ornamental plant, has spread to most of Africa's lakes and rivers, choking out other flora and fauna, making fishing impossible, and restricting water supplies. Similarly, the IUCN says, the nonnative Nile perch has driven more than 200 native fish to extinction. Meanwhile, across the world, the Union of Concerned Scientists says that 122 harmful invasive species -- some of them from Africa -- have set upon Texas, threatening native species and agricultural lands.
straight to the source: BBC News, Alex Kirby, 05 Feb 2003
straight to the source: Houston Chronicle, Dina Cappiello, 06 Feb 2003
only in Grist: Botanically correct —a new language is needed to win the day for native species—by Kim Todd in our Soapbox section
only in Grist: Lovey-dovey scientists, a cartoon by Suzy Becker
Tweet for the bees
Europe places outcome of Copenhagen squarely on Obama
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