Ecology of Biological Invasions

The susceptibility of ecosystems to invasions varies, and the degree to which ecosystems are open or closed can be used to predict the likely spread of invasions. The contributors to this book take this theme and discuss it from a mainly Australian perspective; of all large islands, Australia has possibly the worst record for the introduction of plants, animals and micro-organisms. The problem of biological invasions raises important ecological questions of increasing global significance. Many introduced species are of major economic importance: some constitute the main plants and animals used as crops and food, whilst others are serious pests, weeds or sources of disease. Not all introduced species become invaders, but the ecological analysis of those that do show up critical species attributes that could provide the basis for future screening measures. Twelve contributors consider such important issues as the quantification of an invasion, impact assessment, limitation of spread by species and site characteristics, genetic attributes, quarantine measures and the implication for more effective environmental management.Groves, R. H. is the author of 'Ecology of Biological Invasions', published 1986 under ISBN 9780521303552 and ISBN 0521303559.