10 Invasive Species Of North America

Asian tiger mosquito

Originally from the tropics, poses a significant threat as it carries over 20 human pathogens.

Cane toad

Initially introduced for pest control in sugarcane, is now widespread, notably in Australia, known for its poisonous nature, omnivorous habits, and prolific reproduction.

Water hyacinth

Water hyacinths, introduced as ornamentals from South America, have become the world's most destructive aquatic weed, rapidly doubling every two weeks.

Argentine ant

Disrupt ecosystems with resilient supercolonies in places like North America, featuring numerous queens, pest farming, and disruption of native insect populations.

Gypsy moth

The gypsy moth, has defoliated 30 million hectares of U.S. forests since 1970, exhibiting periodic swarming that strips entire trees and can lead to their demise.

Nutria

A nightmarish beaver-rat-platypus hybrid, weighing up to nine kilograms, disrupts ecosystems by swimming, burrowing, and consuming 25% of its body weight daily.

Kudzu vine

With its rapid 18-meter seasonal growth, renowned for engulfing landscapes in the American South, is now advancing north into Canada.

Starling

Introduced in 1890, with 200 million now causing crop damage and disease spread in North America, showcase their redeeming murmurations.

Black rat

Black rats, globally inflict damage by destroying crops, transmitting diseases, and eradicating species.

Purple loosestrife

Purple loosestrife now invades 190,000 hectares of North American wetlands, causing millions in annual damages as it spreads through ditches and agricultural channels.

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