12 Questions
What is the estimated annual cost of invasive species to the U.S. in terms of control efforts, lost crops, and damages?
120 billion U.S. dollars
What is the primary reason why invasive species are able to overwhelm native ecosystems in the U.S.?
Lack of natural climate and predators
What is the alternative strategy proposed by some individuals to control invasive species, besides the usual methods?
Eating invasive species
What are some of the usual methods employed to control invasive species, according to the text?
Physically removing them, applying strong poisons, or quarantining them to protect native species
What is the concern raised by some individuals regarding the use of imported predators and genetically engineered species to control invasive species?
They might overwhelm an ecosystem
What is the primary goal of authorities when controlling invasive species, according to the text?
To protect native species
What is the term used to describe people who eat invasive species as a solution to the invasive species crisis?
Invasivores
What is one of the concerns scientists have about invasivores' efforts to control invasive species through eating them?
Inexperienced foragers may consume toxic plants or discover allergies to them, leading to health risks.
What is an example of an invasive species that has been successfully harvested and consumed, according to invasivores?
Lionfish
What is a concern about the popularity of invasive species as a food source?
People may protect and spread popular invaders for food and money, exacerbating the crisis.
What is a limitation of invasivores' approach, according to conservation experts?
It only addresses a small fraction of the 4,300 invasive species in the U.S.
What is a potential risk associated with handling lionfish, if not done correctly?
Painful sting from the venomous spines, requiring immediate medical attention.
Test your knowledge about the impact of non-native species on US ecosystems, from their sources to their economic costs. Learn about the effects of invasive plants and animals on the environment and the economy.
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