Tools - Management tools

100 of the world's worst invasive alien species : a selection from the Global Invasive Species Database.  French language version.

This report recommends strategic responses to address issues related to aquatic IAS in the LMB. It also recommends maximum participation at national, regional and international levels is essential and suggests possible participants at the three levels. It also identifies the Global Invasive Species Database (GISD) (http://www.issg. org/database/) as the single most important resource for use with respect to IAS.

The aim of this toolkit is to provide a clear, user-friendly guide to the application of economic approaches and tools to invasive species. It addresses the issues associated with identifying the factors which cause the spread of invasives, incorporating consideration of invasive species into economic planning and policy-making, and identifying economic tools and measures to support on-the-ground management actions designed to address biological invasions.

This website contains a range of resources on invasive alien plants in South Africa, including the SAPIA (South Africa Plant Invader Atlas) database where users can search for alien plants by common name, scientific name, family or growth form. Species fact sheets contain information on invader category according to South African legislation, area of origin, ecology and habitat, threats and impacts, as well as possible control methods. Pictures are also available for idenfification purposes. Apart from the database, the site also contains reports on invasive plants, SAPIA newsletters, a glossary and legislation information, which includes problem plant categories in South Africa. The next most comprehensive catalogue of naturalized alien species is that contained in the Southern African Plant Invaders Atlas (SAPIA) database which is accessible at this website. The SAPIA database currently contains 550 species, of which 250 are not listed by Wells et al. Not all of these species have become truly naturalized; some are occasional garden escapes that require considerable disturbance to become established. However they are all regarded as worthy of listing as they could become the invaders of the future. All the species in the SAPIA database have been recorded in natural or disturbed sites, excluding cultivated lands. At least 200 species are regarded as important and potentially important invaders and have been classified as 'Transformers', 'Potential transformers' and 'Special effect weeds'. See glossary for definitions.

The SAPIA database was identified at a workshop organized by the National Department of Agriculture in October 1998, in Pretoria, as the starting point for the development of a national information system for the management of alien invasive plants in South Africa. The Weeds and Invasive Plants website has been designed to fulfill this objective.

This booklet introduces alien wetland invaders by describing seven of the worst species already introduced to Africa and mentions several others that are potential threats. It is hoped that this publication will raise the awareness of those concerned and provide them with sources for information and technical assistance.

The database lists 1236 alien species of plants, animals and fungi in Poland. Information on these species include the pathway, place and time of introduction to Poland, present distribution, population trends and impacts on native species, habitats and ecosystems. Possible methods of control and management are also assessed. Terminology on biological invasions is very complex and often inconsistent. Apart from alien, the species in question are referred to as introduced, acclimatized, invasive, non-indigenous, allochtonous, or exotic. Alien Species in Poland follows definitions agreed by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and then implemented in the "European Strategy on Invasive Alien Species" adopted by the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention. Alien species: a species, subspecies or lower taxon, introduced outside its natural past or present distribution; includes any part, gametes, seeds, eggs, or propagules of such species that might survive and subsequently reproduce. Invasive alien species (IAS): an alien species whose introduction and/or spread threaten biological diversity. (For pragmatic reasons, in the database this group also includes alien species whose introduction and/or spread threaten economy and/or human health ). Introduction: the movement by human agency, indirect or direct, of an alien species outside of its natural range (past or present). This movement can be either within a country or between countries or areas beyond national jurisdiction."

This page provides a distribution map of alligator weed in Australia. Also marked on the map are the different statuses of management actions undertaken in different areas.

The alligator weed priority framework is divided into 4 sections:  1. Prevent spread;  2. Identify and eradicate non core infestations; 3. Manage core infestations; 4. Research and development.  This document provides further detail regarding each of the priorities listed.

This Strategy seeks to establish a framework to address invasive alien species by meeting four strategic challenges, including: • Integrating environmental considerations into decision-making with economic and social factors; • Enhancing co-ordination and co-operation to respond more rapidly to new invasions and pathways of invasion; • Strengthening programs to protect natural resources under pressure from increased global trade and travel; and • Maximizing collaboration between adhoc and regional/issue specific efforts to ensure the limited resources are used on highest priority issues It includes a glossary and discussion on important pathways

This inventory and assessment is based on experts’ consultation, literature and field studies in collaboration with local partners such as high schools, community forest user groups, community-based NGOs, farmers and other stakeholders.

The OIE Aquatic Animal Health Code (the Aquatic Code) sets out standards for the improvement of aquatic animal health and welfare and veterinary public health worldwide, including through standards for safe international trade in aquatic animals (amphibians, crustaceans, fish and molluscs) and their products.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Argentina. (CBD)

This section of the asparagus weeds manual provides information on asparagus fern (Asparagus scandens), such as distribution, ecology, history of introduction, method of dispersal, legal status, control methods, and life cycle.

This section of the asparagus weeds manual provides information on climbing asparagus (Asparagus africanus), such as distribution, ecology, history of introduction, method of dispersal, legal status, control methods, and life cycle.

This section of the asparagus weeds manual provides information on the Western Cape form of bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), such as distribution, ecology, history of introduction, method of dispersal, legal status, control methods, and life cycle.

This collection of papers presented at the International Conference on Assessment and Control of Biological Invasion Risks held in August 2004 at Yokohama National University discusses risk assessment, risk management and eradication. It also includes contributions reporting on the current status of invasion and the properties of alien species in East Asia.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Australia. (CBD)

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Bangladesh.

The desktop compilation and mini-review of existing information is required by GISP as the first step in its plan to produce a toolkit specifically for the prevention and management of invasive marine species. The scope and objectives of the initial step have been as follows: 1. Provide a compilation of all relevant literature and material available globally, rather than an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of different approaches. 2. Cover all possible pathways/vectors of ‘invasive alien species’ (IAS) in the marine environment with a focus on actual rather than hypothetical cases, including intentional and unintentional introduction pathways, plus natural range expansions resulting from climate change and other human activities. 3. Include case studies demonstrating ecological, economic and social impacts (such as the Caulerpa taxifolia ‘aquarium strain’ in the Mediterranean and elsewhere), best practice manuals (e.g. the Rapid Response Toolbox in Australia’s National Introduced Marine Pest Information System), information on relevant technologies (especially new developments and voluntary guidelines such as the IMO guidelines on ballast water management), and recent regulations at sub-national, national and international levels (e.g. the New Zealand Biosecurity Act 1993). 4. Cover all aspects of IAS management, i.e. from prevention through early warning and surveillance systems, eradication, containment and monitoring, management and control. 5. Make the maximum possible use of web-searches and appropriate mailing lists within the time constraints of the study to provide the broadest possible coverage of reports, many of which are grey literature.

The National Invasive Species Database provides up-to-date centralized information on the distribution of invasive species in Ireland.

This is a priority framework for managing the spread and impacts of bridal creeper and other asparagus weeds.

The ISC is a constantly developing encyclopaedic resource containing: Datasheets on over 1500 invasive species and animal diseases; Basic datasheets on further species, countries, habitats and pathways; Bibliographic database of over 75,000 records; Full text documents. The datasheets comprise fully referenced sections on taxonomy and nomenclature, distribution, habitat, identification, biology and ecology, species associations, pathways for introduction, impacts and management, complemented by images and maps, and supported by abstracts and full text articles.

The ultimate goal of this plan is to minimize (and ideally eliminate) the introduction of harmful AIS and remediate the impact of those already in Canada. The plan’s underlying principles include incorporating environmental, economic, and social factors in decision making; working cooperatively with all stakeholders; and using science-based techniques to assess the risk of aquatic invasive species. Prevention of harmful new invasions is the first priority, as it is the most cost-effective way to deal with the problem. Once species are established, the task becomes far more complex and costly. The tools used to manage AIS must be carefully analyzed in terms of their effectiveness, how they affect the rest of the ecosystem, their cost, and so on. While some of the tools used to prevent and control harmful introductions vary between pathways, most of them apply across pathways, between jurisdictions, and to a range of species and ecosystems. In this plan, management actions have been organized into four broad categories: legislation, regulation and compliance; risk management; engaging Canadians; and science.

Taxonomic resource, fish, global, Includes species that are not Invasive Species

The overall goal of the Biodiversity for Development initiative is to improve the integration of the three objectives of the Convention into development plans and priorities in keeping the spirit of Article 6 (b). The three inter-related objectives of the initiative are: 1.To promote the integration of biodiversity considerations into sectoral policies or cross-sectoral strategies (e.g. Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers or Sustainable Development Strategies) as well as ensuring the development dimension in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs); 2.To facilitate the exchange of experiences and the dissemination of lessons learned and good practices regarding the integration of biodiversity into development sectors and poverty reduction strategies and programmes; 3.To strengthen the linkages between CBD Programmes of Work and development / poverty alleviation, and raise awareness of the Parties on this crucial issue.

It is now widely recognized that climate change and biodiversity are interconnected. Biodiversity is affected by climate change, with negative consequences for human well-being, but biodiversity, through the ecosystem services it supports, also makes an important contribution to both climate-change mitigation and adaptation. Consequently, conserving and sustainably managing biodiversity is critical to addressing climate change. This site provides links and information to COP Decisions, case studies, resources, documents and other related areas.

Convention on Biological Diversity. This page provides access to sources of information on experiences with invasive alien species, including case studies and assessments. The list of sources is not meant to be comprehensive, but rather is intended to focus on some key sources that themselves contain a variety of information on experiences with invasive alien species

The general purpose of the Liaison Group is to facilitate cooperation among relevant organizations to support measures to prevent the introduction and mitigate the impacts of invasive alien species. In the period up to 2020 the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020, and in particular Aichi Target 9, will provide the main focus of the work of this group.

Convention on Biological Diversity National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

Convention on Biological Diversity. This page lists some Principles, Guidelines and other tools developed under the Convention. All are available in the six official United Nations Languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Spanish, Russian) through associated Conference of the Parties decisions (left column). In the language column on the right, links are made to associated PDF Publications of the Secretariat. It includes Guiding Principles for the Prevention, Introduction and Mitigation of Impacts of Alien Species that Threaten Ecosystems, Habitats or Species
The Guiding Principles are intended to assist governments to control invasive alien species, as an integral part of conservation and economic development. They comprise 15 principles on prevention, intentional and unintentional introduction, and mitigation of impacts.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic Report on Alien and Invasive Species in the Central African Republic

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report to CBD on alien and invasive species in Comoros

Conservation Evidence is a free, authoritative information resource designed to support decisions about how to maintain and restore global biodiversity. It summarises evidence from the scientific literature about the effects of conservation Interventions, such as methods of habitat or species management. The site also produces a open-access journal publishing research and case studies. Search results will provide a list of studies and scientific articles published within Conservation Evidence or in other journals (summaries of articles only).

The control and management options presented in this manual are the combined results of years of trials carried out by many dedicated researchers, landholders, herbicide companies, government officers,landcare groups and others.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Czech Republic

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The site contains the archives of scientific research undertaken for New Zealand native species.

This report describes an indicator of the abundance, extent and impact of invasive non-native species in Great Britain. The main ideas and options for the abundance indicator and for the impact indicator are considered. A third type of indicator, the annual rate of establishment of new non-native species, is outlined, with provisional data presented only for England

Guidelines for development of a national ballast water management strategy

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in the Dominican Republic

Ecological Management & Restoration aims to bridge the gap between the ecologist's perspective and field manager's experience. Publishing peer-reviewed articles, technical reports, news items, reviews and letters on the science and practice of ecosystem restoration and management, this innovative journal combines a highly readable style with scientifically credible material.

This guideline aims to aid parties working with ballast water management to evaluate and quantify the potential economic impacts of accidental introductions of marine species through ballast water.

Environmental Management offers research and opinions on use and conservation of natural resources, protection of habitats and control of hazards, spanning the field of applied ecology without regard to traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Estonia.

The site provides lists of invasive and potentially invasive alien species, risk and pathway analyses, management standards, links to relevant resources, and other information services (database, bulletin, reporting service etc.) Wild plants can be threatened by the introduction and spread of pests, and notably by 'invasive alien plants' which can seriously disturb and destroy natural plant communities. Therefore in the early 2000s, EPPO started to work more specifically on invasive alien plants, in particular to analyze the risks presented by specific invasive alien plant species for the EPPO region and recommend measures to prevent their introduction and spread via international trade."

The NatureWatch App allows citizen scientists to identify and report invasive alien species using an iPhone application, Submit your reports via photos and videos of species, droppings or footprints as well as through sound bites and written.

Alien species database, searchable by species, taxonomic group, habitat and country. Covers all groups for Europe.

Executive Summary NatureServe, in cooperation with The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. National Park Service, developed this Invasive Species Assessment Protocol as a tool for assessing, categorizing, and listing non-native invasive vascular plants according to their impact on native species and natural biodiversity in a large geographical area such as a nation, state, province, or ecological region. This protocol is designed to make the process of assessing and listing invasive plants objective and systematic, and to incorporate scientific documentation of the information used to determine each species’ rank. NatureServe’s methodology has previously included assessments of the conservation significance of native species; this protocol extends that scope to non-native species as well. The protocol is used to assess species (or infraspecific taxa, as appropriate) individually for a specified “region of interest” and to assign each species an Invasive Species Impact Rank (I-Rank) of High, Medium, Low, or Insignificant to categorize its negative impact on natural biodiversity within that region. The protocol includes 20 questions, each with four scaled responses (A-D, plus U = unknown). The 20 questions are grouped into four sections: Ecological Impact, Current Distribution and Abundance, Trend in Distribution and Abundance, and Management Difficulty. Each species is assessed by considering these questions, with the answers used to calculate a subrank for each of the four sections. An overall I-Rank is then calculated from the subranks. Text comments and citations to information sources should be provided as documentation for each answer selected, along with a concise text summary of the major considerations leading to the overall rank. While designed for use in a specified large, contiguous, biogeographically diverse region, the protocol can be adapted to specified noncontiguous regions (such as the 50 states of the United States), and may also be applied to assess the impact in the non-native range of a species that is also present elsewhere in a region as a native. NatureServe is now using this protocol to assess the biodiversity impact of the approximately 3,500 non-native vascular plant species established outside cultivation in the United States. The protocol is offered here in generalized form for others who might wish to use it to conduct similar assessments and create lists of invasive plants for other nations, states, provinces, ecological regions, or comparable areas. An Invasive Species Assessment Protocol Page 5.

The national biodiversity portal of Guatemala. With consultation and publication of information relating to biodiversity and related topics. This includes an overview of invasive Alien Species

DAD-IS is the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System hosted by FAO. It is a communication and information tool for implementing strategies for the management of animal genetic resources (AnGR). It provides the user with searchable databases of breed-related information and images, management tools, and a library of references, links and contacts of Regional and National Coordinators for the Management of Animal Genetic Resources. It provides countries with a secure means to control the entry, updating and accessing of their national data.

A community website that allows you to record and map sightings of feral animals, birds,fish and control activities in your local area. includes mobile mapping tools, Distribution data, and resources on control In all AUS states.

This website discusses the impacts of invasive species on forests and the forestry sector.

This site provides a list of species profiles for significant pest species impacting forests and the forest sector. Each factsheet contains information on the species' identification, distribution, ecology, pathways, symptoms and damage, and possible control measures.

Forest Ecology and Management publishes scientific articles that link forest ecology with forest management, and that apply biological and ecological knowledge to the management and conservation of man-made and natural forests. The scope of the journal includes all forest ecosystems of the world.

The site offers information on invasive species of all taxa in the Galapagos Islands. This includes summaries of general information on alien invasive species, manuals and protocols to identify and manage species, information on regional planning and community involvement in conservation efforts as well as lists of noxious weeds and other invasive species in the Galapagos. Statement of purpose for the Galapagos invasive species web site:
Inform the wider world (local, national and international) of the invasive species problem in Galapagos, the challenges which their management presents, and advances in their eradication and control, in order to:

enable exchange of information and experience between technical people;
identify areas of common interest between experts, projects, organisations and countries:
broadcast the successes and lessons learned from the programmes of eradication and control of invasive species in Galapagos;
broadcast knowledge of the problems caused and impact of invasive species in Galapagos.
"

The Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) produced best practices, toolkits and guidelines for policy makers. These include Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Marine Biofouling and Invasive Species; A Toolkit for the Economic Analysis of Invasive Species; A Toolkit for Developing Legal and Institutional Frameworks for Invasive Alien Species; Best Practice for the Management of Introduced Marine Pests - A Review; Invasive Alien Species: A Toolkit for Best Prevention and Management Practices; A Guide to Designing Legal and Institutional Frameworks on Alien Invasive Species; and Best Management Practices for Preventing and Controlling Invasive Alien Species.

GISP Training Course on Drafting Legal and Institutional Frameworks for Invasive Species in English. Shine C. 2008 A Toolkit for Developing Legal and Institutional Frameworks for Invasive Alien Species. Publisher Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP)

List of links to GISP Training Course materials and their respective modules. Emerton L. & Howard G. 2008 A Toolkit for the Economic Analysis of Invasive Species. Publisher Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP)

The GERDA database summarises incursion response and eradication programmes from around the world. The scope of the database is terrestrial arthropod pests and plant pathogens. Weeds, vertebrate pests, aquatic pests, and animal diseases are not currently included

The GISD focuses on invasive alien species that threaten native biodiversity and covers all taxonomic groups from micro-organisms to animals and plants in all ecosystems. Species information is either supplied by or reviewed by expert contributors from around the world. It is managed by the Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) of the Species Survival Commission of the IUCN-World Conservation Union.
Many of the species profiles feature images, include a description section and, where available, links to Diagnostic information sources such as for the ant profiles and others. They features distribution information at country level and also at site level including protected areas and ecosystem, admin unit level, island etc. The database entries are rich in management information.

This report details the results of an extensive desktop study to quantify the economic impacts of Mimosa pigra (Mimosa), an invasive weed species in Africa.This report examines the economic impact of these invasive weed species, including impacts on fishing yields, agricultural production and tourism. The impacts were valued using market prices (where available) and published data on yields and productivity.

Summarising key findings of the Phase I Synthesis Conference held in September 2000 in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, this publication presents ten strategic responses that address how to mitigate the threats of IAS. Directed toward the decision-makers whose policies and practices are affecting the movement of species around the world, this strategy strives to provide a resource to increase awareness and provide policy advice.

Invasive aquatic species are one of the four greatest threats to the world's oceans, and can cause extremely severe environmental, economic and public health impacts.The GEF/UNDP/IMO Global Ballast Water Management Programme (GloBallast) is assisting developing countries to; reduce the transfer of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens in ships' ballast water, implement the IMO ballast water Guidelines and prepare for the new IMO ballast water Convention.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Greece

This handbook provides information on invasive plants around Lake Tanganyika. Information on the plant's identification along with photographs are provided to enable invasive plant recognition. Pathway and dispersal as well as information on management/control options are also included.

This document is a manual providing advice and information to the development of national ballast water management strategies. It contains a step-by-step guide and a list of useful resources at the end.

This document is a manual providing advice and information to the development of national ballast water management strategies. It contains a step-by-step guide and a list of useful resources at the end.

This document provides guidelines and advice for national administrations through the processes of evaluating and preparing for the implementation of ballast water management measures.

The standard describes the principles and requirements that apply for the determination and recognition of the equivalence of phytosanitary measures. It also describes a procedure for equivalence determinations in international trade.

These guidelines outline step-by-step recommendations for interventions to minimise risks of biological invasions along the biofuels supply chain.

This journal provides a forum to promote knowledge of harmful microalgae and macroalgae, including cyanobacteria, as well as monitoring, management and control of these organisms.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Hungary

As part of the Inter-American Biodiversity Information Network (IABIN), the I3N Invasive Species Network is a regional network of people and institutions sharing information on invasive species of all taxa. The database is under construction, and currently only features a list of invasive species.

As part of the Inter-American Biodiversity Information Network (IABIN), the I3N Invasive Species Network is a regional network of people and institutions sharing information on invasive species of all taxa.

I3N is the invasive species thematic network of the Inter- American Biodiversity Information Network (IABIN) I3N Risk Analysis of Invasion Tool and Vector Analysis of Pathways Tool

For plants, these tools are available for download in Excel format as separate worksheets in the same file. Terrestrial Vertebrates and Fishes have only Risk Analysis Tools available. The user manuals for each of the tools are separate pdf files. If upon opening the Excel files an alert is generated saying "this file contains macros," you must enable macros for the file to operate properly. These tools are also available in Spanish and Portuguese.

This report is a summary of progress made by stakeholders over the past five years (2003-2008) in the implementation of strategies aimed at controlling the spread of the three aquatic weeds of national significance (WoNS): • Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) • Cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana) • Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) Information for this report is drawn primarily from annual reports prepared by the National Aquatic Weeds Coordinator for the National Aquatic Weeds Management Group, though other sources were also consulted.

The site contains a database of invasive species of all taxa found in Mexico. Information about these IAS have been obtained from experts, scientific literature, and from projects supported by CONABIO. For each species listed, information on its introduction route and status of invasion are provided. The list is regularly updated. This page presents the lists of invasive species reported for our country and some whose Mexico entry is imminent, or would have severe consequences for our biodiversity. These lists are in constant review, due to the dynamic nature of the problem, so it will be updated on a regular basis.

the Ballast Water Management Convention, adopted in 2004, aims to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms from one region to another, by establishing standards and procedures for the management and control of ships' ballast water and sediments

This report evaluates the effectiveness of international agreements and organizations and recommends numerous improvements. It includes a series of tables and maps, which can be easily updated. The tables present a problem-oriented summary of global and regional legal instruments and an indication of the scientific, technical, and legal guidance offered by international bodies. The maps demonstrate geographic relationships in eight ocean regions -- among regional marine and regional fisheries conventions, large marine ecosystems, major river basins, marine protected areas, and national jurisdiction.

The International Society for the Study of Harmful Algae (ISSHA) was founded in 1997, in response to a request from the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO for an international programme o­n harmful algae. The Society is affiliated to the ICSU family of organizations as a constituent part of the International Union of Biological Sciences (IUBS) through the International Association of Biological Oceanography (IABO). The overall mandate of the Society is to promote and foster research and training programs o­n harmful algae, and to co-sponsor meetings o­n this topic at the national, regional, and international level.

A web-enabled tool to create Simulations for Predicting Colonization of Aquatic Invasive Species.

"Predicting and averting the spread of invasive species is a core focus of resource managers in all ecosystems. Patterns of invasion are difficult to forecast, compounded by a lack of user-friendly species distribution model (SDM) tools to help managers focus control efforts. This paper presents a web-based cellular automata hybrid modeling tool developed to study the invasion pattern of lionfish (Pterois volitans/miles) in the western Atlantic and is a natural extension our previous lionfish study. Our goal is to make publically available this hybrid SDM tool and demonstrate both a test case (P. volitans/miles) and a use case (Caulerpa taxifolia). The software derived from the model, titled Invasionsoft, is unique in its ability to examine multiple default or user-defined parameters, their relation to invasion patterns, and is presented in a rich web browser-based GUI with integrated results viewer. The beta version is not species-specific and includes a default parameter set that is tailored to the marine habitat. Invasionsoft is provided as copyright protected freeware at http://www.invasionsoft.com.!

Brochure on invasive species on the New Programme for Africa's Development

Invasive Alien Species and Protected areas: A Scoping Report Part II. Suggestions for an IUCN approach to addressing present and future threats from invasive alien species in protected areas. 2007 Produced for the World Bank as a contribution to the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP). Produced by Maj De Poorter (Invasive Species Specialist Group of the Species Survival Commission of IUCN - The World Conservation Union)

The Mekong Wetlands Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use Programme (MWBP) will devise a regional strategy to address the existing and potential impacts of IAS in the LMB. This preliminary report is the first step in moving towards developing a strategy to manage IAS issues in the LMB.

Invasive Plant Science and Management is a broad-based journal that focuses on
•fundamental and applied research on invasive plant biology, ecology, management
•restoration of invaded non-crop areas
•many other aspects relevant to invasive species, including educational activities, policy issues, sociopolitical impact, technological aspects and case study reports.

In this e-bulletin series, the Invasive Species Council aims to spread awareness on the links between climate change and invasive species. Each issue provides examples of the interactions between climage change and invasive species spread. These e-bulletins aim to promote reforms to diminish the thread of invasives.

This document examines the significance of taxonomy as a useful measure in preventing and managing the spread of invasive species, and reports on a needs assessment for taxonomy to deliver against IAS management needs.

The website provides a list of invasive species in Scotland. Each factsheet has information on ecological impacts, distribution, pathways of introduction along with possible control methods (biological, physical, chemical etc.). Photos as well as a list of links to relevant resources are also available. This is part of Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland (RAFTS) which works on prevention, control or eradication of invasive species and diseases in river catchments and with support from the Scottish Government, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the Esmeé Fairbairn Foundation has initiated the RAFTS Biosecurity and Invasive Species Programme.

In this publication summaries are given of the main case studies presented at the workshop on invasive alien species, both those with severe economic impacts and certain others posing serious threats to the region’s environment.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on invasive and alien species in Ireland

Focused on the threat of invasive species on native species and ecosystems on islands. The site enables users to search the database directly by species, or by location, or by impacts of invasive species and their outcomes on native populations. With each species entry, there is an invasive threat summary, and a threat management summary detailing possible conservation strategies and past case studies. IBIS was developed by the IUCN SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group in response to feedback from island conservation managers that there was a need for better access to data and information on invasive alien species on islands and how to manage this insidious threat. IBIS aims to record and provide information on the impacts of invasive alien species on native species on islands (with a focus on those that are classified as ‘threatened’ in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species- Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU)), and the management of this threat.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Israel.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on ivnasive and alien species in Jamaica

Journal of Applied Ecology publishes novel, high impact papers on the interface between ecological science and the management of biological resources...The journal includes all major themes in applied ecology, such as conservation biology, global change, environmental pollution, wildlife and habitat management, land use and management, aquatic resources, restoration ecology, and the management of pests, weeds and disease.

The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management encourages submission of original, high quality, English-language scientific papers on the practical application and integration of science to conservation and management of native North American fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats in the following categories: Articles, Notes, Surveys and Issues and Perspectives.

The Lantana Best Practice Manual provides a comprehensive guide to the biology and ecology of the weed, the range of management options and how to integrate them, as well as information on how to plan
and monitor your control activities.

Along with the Decision Support Tool, a computerbased tool to help determine the most appropriate sequence of initial and follow-up control for your particular management situation, this resource should enable the implementation of an efficient and costeffective management program on your property.

Recognizing the significant impacts that IAS have on the environment, economy, and human health, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), in cooperation with the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP), sponsored a preliminary assessment to investigate the linkages between IAS and development assistance in the freshwater systems of Southeast Asia. This report details the findings of the assessment, which focused on three areas – (1) development assistance as pathway of introduction, (2) development assistance projects adversely impacted by IAS, and (3) development assistance projects working to address IAS.

This report is a product of a workshop entitled Prevention and Management of Invasive Alien Species:
Forging Cooperation throughout Southern Africa, held by the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) in Lusaka, Zambia on 10-12 June 2002.

This report analyses gender perspectives of invasive species impacts and management. A case study of invasions of Prosopis juliflora and Parthenium hysterophorus in Ethiopia is included.

This document contains information on marine biofouling as a pathway for the spread of invasive species. The ecological and economic impacts of invasive marine species are included, along with case studies. The document also provides information on management practices, regulatory framework and legislation and recommendations.

A collection of journal articles on invasive species in marine environments.

Marine News is the IUCN Global Marine and Polar Programme e-newsletter. It includes news stories related to a diversity of marine-related topics such as climate change mitigation and adaptation; threatened marine species; energy and industry; marine protected areas; marine invasive species; fisheries and aquaculture; ocean governance and the Arctic. It also highlights recent marine expeditions and outstanding marine photographs.

Marine menace : alien invasive species in the marine environment

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Mexico

This manual is designed to help you make informed decisions about how to plan and carry out your mimosa control program. It is also designed so that landholders without significant mimosa infestations know how to recognise, monitor and prevent the establishment of mimosa on their land.

Weeds of National Significance are declared based on their invasiveness, impacts, potential for spread and significant environmental and socioeconomic impacts. African boxthorn ticks all these boxes, and in 2012 was declared a Weed of National Significance. This Strategic Plan provides guidance for the first five years of implementing a nationally coordinated approached to managing African boxthorn.

This manual incorporates a summary of our present understanding of parkinsonia ecology and management. This technical information is supported by a variety of case studies drawn from areas that represent the Australian geographic range of this weed.

Samoa’s National Invasive Species Action plan (NISAP) is Samoa’s response to the threat from invasive species and sets out the framework and identifies the key initial actions that need to be undertaken to effectively assess and manage the threat and impacts of new and existing invasive species in Samoa. The actions have been prioritised, with timeframes and identification of the lead agency/group and relevant partners that will be involved in implementation.

This site offers a database of rare and endagered plants, animals and ecosystems in the United States and Canada. Species factsheets include distribution maps, conservation status, life histories and population information. Welcome to NatureServe Explorer, an authoritative source for information on more than 70,000 plants, animals, and ecosystems of the United States and Canada. Explorer includes particularly in-depth coverage for rare and endangered species.

The site provides information on alien plant species in Germany, including a manual of about 40 documented invasive plants along with pictures and measures of control. Other information include the ecological impacts on native systems, legal and political frameworks, possible methods of mitigation of invasive plants and review of neophytes in conservation. There is also a forum for interaction between parties interested in these plants. NeoFlora contains general information such as:

What are neophytes or invasive species ?
Political and legal framework
environmental foundations
Effects and dangers of invasive plants for conservation, economic and health
Review of neophytes in conservation
possible measures

Thematic report and comments on alien and invasive species in New Zealand

Invasive species South Africa.
Website covering all of south Africa with an agricultural focus on plants and animals, regularly updated and with resources on policy and methods of control.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report and additional comments on alien and invasive species in Norway

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Oman

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Pakistan

Asia is experiencing a significant increase in economic activity within the region, and between it and other parts of the world. Adoption of increasingly liberal trade policies (e.g. emergence of preferential trade agreements) and higher volumes of tourism will undoubtedly facilitate more biological invasions. The risk that these alien species will cause significant harm is exacerbated by a considerable lack of awareness of the severity of the IAS problem (especially among policy makers), as well as seriously inadequate technical support. It was within this context that the South and Southeast Asia regional workshop on IAS was organised by the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) and partners in 2002 in Bangkok, Thailand. This meeting was one of six regional IAS workshops held by GISP and the U.S. government in 2001-2004. The others included: the Baltic/Nordic region (May 2001), South America (October 2001), Southern Africa (June 2002), the Austral Pacific region (October 2002), and West Africa (rescheduled for March 2004). Each meeting has resulted in a regional statement, meeting report (including draft regional action plans), and development or strengthening of regional directories of information resources on IAS.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Panama

Links to relevant resources on the management of Parthenium, e.g. awareness products and brochures, fact sheets and weed management guides, and information on biocontrol.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Peru

The standard provides details for the conduct of pest risk analysis (PRA) to determine if pests are quarantine pests. It describes the integrated processes to be used for risk assessment as well as the selection of risk management options. S1 It also includes details regarding the analysis of risks of plant pests to the environment and biological diversity, including those risks affecting uncultivated/unmanaged plants, wild flora, habitats and ecosystems contained in the PRA area. Some explanatory comments on the scope of the IPPC in regard to environmental risks are given in Annex 1. S2 It includes guidance on evaluating potential phytosanitary risks to plants and plant products posed by living modified organisms (LMOs). This guidance does not alter the scope of ISPM No. 11 but is intended to clarify issues related to the PRA for LMOs. Some explanatory comments on the scope of the IPPC in regard to PRA for LMOs are given in Annex

The PestSmart Toolkit provides information and guidance on best-practice invasive animal management on several key vertebrate pest species including rabbits, wild dogs, foxes, feral pigs, feral cats, carp, and tilapia. Information provided include fact sheets, case-studies, technical manuals and scientific reports.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Poland

These are the proceedings and presentations from a workshop attended by representatives from sixteen West African countries. The aim of the workshop was to promoting information exchange and regional collaboration and cooperative action, with regards to the issue of invasive alien species management. The appendices include reports from a number of countries on specific invasive alien species problems.

This publication is a companion to the Prickly Acacia Best Practice Manual released in July 2000, which presented a technical overview of prickly acacia ecology and the ‘tool box’ of available management strategies and control options. This manual goes one step further—it shows how landholders, community and industry groups, local governments and agencies have applied these tools and strategies in different situations, and shows the approaches being taken by land managers to contain, eradicate or prevent the spread of prickly acacia.

Procedures for the Development of the National Strategy for Control and Water Management Ballast and Sediments. (Spanish) Guidelines for development of a national ballast water management strategy.

The website offers a information on the ecology, impacts, method of introduction, method of identification, biological control, measures of prevention and control and alternative garden substitutes for the invasive weed, purple loosestrife. Brochures are also available for download. The website also has a function which enables users to report observed infestations at their locations. The wetlands of western Canada are facing a serious threat – damage caused by the spread of an invasive plant, purple loosestrife.

Several management tools are listed.

The standard describes the concept of non-regulated pests and identifies their characteristics. It describes the application of the concept in practice and the relevant elements of regulatory systems.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species of the Republic of Macedonia

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in the Republic of Seychelles

This site provides an extensive list of publicly accessible resources that may assist risk assessment procedures.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Romania

Links to relevant resources on the management of rubber vine e.g. awareness products, weed management guide and fact sheet, and maps.

The goals of the NISS are four-fold and aim to minimize the harmful effects of invasive species on the environment, economy and society of Saint Lucia:
[1] to provide a national framework for invasive species prevention and management;
[2] to prevent introduction and establishment of further invasions;
[3] to reduce the impacts of invasive species already present in the country through a hierarchical approach comprising (i) Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR), (ii) Eradication, (iii) Mitigation and Containment, (iv) Restoration;
[4] to strengthen Saint Lucia’s participation in regional and international efforts for invasive species prevention and management.

New institutional policies require new social arrangements among communities and government bureaus. Through a selection of field learning sites and case studies, this report presents a synthesis of lessons learned and invites readers to investigate areas of interest in more depth.

The manual has been designed to allow easy access to the information and includes the following features: • an index of keywords for quick and easy access to specific information • a glossary of key terms and abbreviations • chapters are colour coded to help access information quickly • an ‘at a glance’ control table outlining the range of control and management tools applicable for different land-uses • best practice control and management information described in detail for agricultural, conservation and urban land uses.

This document contains the national reports from a range of countries in the Austral-Pacific region. Each report contains information on known invasive alien species problems within respective countries, current management and prevention strategies, objectives and contact information for relevant departments, priorities for future work on IAS, a list of experts, and other lists to relevant resources.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Singapore

The programme focuses on plant invasion control as part of SANBI's legal mandate to monitor and report on invasive alien species within Southen Africa

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Sri Lanka

This CIAS-Strategy seeks to establish a framework for Invasive Alien Species management in the Caribbean Region by addressing the following two main challenges: The need to strengthen existing national and regional programmes that protect the natural resources which are under pressure from the entry and establishment of Invasive Alien Species through increased global trade and travel and The need to develop new or enhance current national and regional coordination and cooperation mechanisms that will allow a more rapid and efficient response to new and existing alien species invasions.

Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Switzerland

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in Thailand

This report provides case studies of the economic impact of five invasive alien species in different areas in Africa. The overall aim of this work was to provide detailed information to administrators and managers. The species were: • Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus); • Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes); • The larger grain borer (Prostephanus truncatus); • Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus); and • Triffid weed (Chromolaena odorata).

[R.M. Wise, B.W. van Wilgen, M.P. Hill, F. Schulthess, D. Tweddle, A. Chabi-Olay, and H.G Zimmermann, 2007. The Economic Impact and Appropriate Management of Selected Invasive Alien Species on the African Continent. Final Report prepared for the: Global Invasive Species Programme. CSIR Report Number CSIR/NRE/RBSD/ER/2007/0044/C]

Technical Guidelines to support the BWM Convention. A number of technical guidelines have been developed and adopted since MEPC 53 to support the uniform implementation of the BWM Convention.

This project builds on initial work completed under the Inter-American Biodiversity Information Network (IABIN) Invasives Information Network Project in which databases on invasives species, expertise and programmes were developed and made accessible on the Worldwide Web. This phased approach has been very successful and it is intended that the work on this issue will continue, resulting in the development of a comprehensive infrastructure that will prevent the entry and establishment of unwanted invasive species and other biological threats to the biodiversity of the Bahamian islands.

This standard provides guidelines for the development and evaluation of integrated measures in a systems approach as an option for pest risk management under the relevant international standards for pest risk analysis (PRA) designed to meet phytosanitary import requirements for plants, plant products and other regulated articles.

The WAHIS Interface provides access to all data held within OIE's new World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). It replaces and significantly extends the former web interface named Handistatus II System.

Tropical Asia is a region of mostly developing and emerging economies, many of which are dependent on agricultural, forestry, fishery and aquacultural resources as well as on ecotourism for growth, development and economic prosperity. Tropical Asia also boasts four of the twelve megadiversity centres of the world. Thus, the issue and threat of invasive alien species are very real and significant as exemplified by cases such as the golden apple snail, oriental fruitfly, shrimp whitespot virus, water hyacinth, avian influenza virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) virus and many others. The publication of this book by the Global Invasive Species Program (GISP) is, therefore, very timely to further promote awareness, focus and action on this destructive scourge across a wide spectrum of communities in tropical Asia.

This collection of 52 papers and 21 abstracts focuses on sharing available knowledge to combat the threat of invasive alien species. Turning the tide of biological invasion by eradicating invasive species can yield substantial benefits for biodiversity conservation. As more eradications are attempted worldwide, it is increasingly important that lessons are learned from each and every one of these attempts, whether successful or unsuccessful. This publication is intended to share with a wider audience the insights and practical experience gained.

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on alien and invasive species in the UK

Convention on Biological Diversity. Thematic report on invasive and alien species in Tanzania.

This is a tool provided by Landcare Research to assist landowners or pest managers in implementing pest control strategies. The support system among several things will identify the most suitable management options, enable prioritisation for pest management options, and deliver best current practice for all methods in order to minimise risks and maximise the effectiveness of implemented strategies. Parties interested in pest management are required to fill in the details of several criteria, including: targeted location for management, climate and habitat, control options and costs and control history. The decision support system (DSS) aims to help New Zealanders, from novices to experts, select the most appropriate options for controlling vertebrate pests in a particular locality.

Using your answers to a series of questions about the control operation you want to undertake, the DSS systematically evaluates the potential constraints that may be operating in the area, and provides you with ‘best practice’ advice and other information about the recommended options. Presently the DSS covers five common pests - possum, ferret, feral cat, stoat and rat.

This is a guide to managing the invasive weed, African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum). It includes important information such as the weed's identification, ecology, dispersal method, and suitable control techniques. Additionally, there is a distribution map and a case study.

This is a guide to managing Madeira Vine. It contains information on the species' ecology, history and methods of spread, distribution, management strategies and control methods (including biocontrol), and legislation.

The site provides a plant identification key in the form of an image gallery featuring the botanical characteristics of different groups of pest plants (broadleaf, sedges, aquatic plants etc.) in California, in order to assist with their identification and possible management. There is also a list of weeds, species profiles, and links to a weed identification tool. This key includes the most common weeds found in California lawns. Other species may occur but are not of major importance in turf. Because flowering parts are often mowed and not seen in turf, this key was developed using vegetative characteristics. Identifying weed species is essential for choosing appropriate management practices.

This section of the asparagus weeds manual provides information on asparagus fern (Asparagus scandens), such as distribution, ecology, history of introduction, method of dispersal, legal status, control methods, and life cycle.

This page provides identification information for Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia). Also available are photographs, a current and potential distribution map as well as information on spread.

This page provides information and useful links to the policy information, strategic plans, distribution map and management of alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) in Australia.

This site provides extensive information on the spread, distribution and management of Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla) in Australia. Included on this site are links to resources such as the national priority framework, a potential distribution map, a management map, a best practice management manual, a review of progress strategic plan, and links to other relevant documents and resources.

This page contains extensive information on the management of bitou bush /boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera). Information includes national priority action frameworks, management maps, management manuals, monitoring manuals, and national strategic plans.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) in Australia. This includes the national priority framework, management and distribution maps,a best practice management manual, and other resources e.g. national strategy plans.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana) in Australia. This includes the national priority framework, a control manual, management and distribution maps, and national strategies

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana)) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, a best practice management manual, management and potential distribution maps, and national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of gorse (Ulex europaeus) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, management and potential distribution maps, a best practice manual, and links to gorse national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of lantana (Lantana camara) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, management and potential distribution maps, remote sensing maps, a best practice manual and decision support tool, national plans for lantana, contacts for the National Lantana Management Group and links to national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of mesquite (Prosopis spp.) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework for the species, national strategies, management and potential distribution maps, and a best practice management manual.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of Opuntioid cacti (Opuntia spp., Cylindropuntia spp., Austrocylindroppuntia spp.) in Australia. This includes a national strategic plan, a weed management guide, and management and distribution maps as well as links to identification resources.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of Parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, a management manual, and management and distribution maps as well as links to national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of prickly acacia (Acacia nilotica subsp. indica) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, a best practice management manual, management and distribution maps as well as links to national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) in Australia. This includes a national priority action framework, a control manual, management and distribution maps as well as links to national strategies.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in Australia. This includes an identification resource and a management guide as well as a national strategy.

This page provides information and links to useful resources on the management of gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) in Australia. This includes a strategic plan, a weed management guide, and management and potential distribution maps.

The atlas tracks reports of breeding by seabirds in the West Indies and Caribbean region and is largely a species list and biological database, The Site Also Publishes “Caribbean Seabird Initiative: Invasives” Newsletter which is focused on restoring seabird breeding sites in the Caribbean by removing invasive species.
The information presented here was in part generated by the Seabird Working Group of the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds and the More than 85 naturalists and professional scientists who have contributed to date.

Guide to managing the spread and impacts of invasive willows.