What is a Non-Native Species
Non-native species, are organisms that have been introduced to an ecosystem where they do not belong. These species can be from other regions of Canada, or from distant parts of the world. In fact, you can find non-native species just about anywhere– from your garden, to your plate, to your backyard!
While most non-native species can co-exist with native plants and animals some non-native species, also known as invasive species, spread aggressively and can cause harm to the environment– some well known example is the emerald ash borer, phragmites, and purple loosestrife.
What is an Invasive Species?
Invasive species are those that disrupt the natural balance of our ecosystem. They take over habitats, out competing native species for food, shelter, and space.
Invasive plant species are also of little use to native wildlife as they may not be viable food or habitat sources.
What can you do?
Once these species are in our natural environment they can be hard to control. The best way to control these species is to avoid planting them in your garden or near natural areas, and removing them when possible (i.e. in the case of invasive plants and fish species).
Below you will find information about a number of invasive species in our area, as well as what you can do to help mitigate the impact they have on our ecosystem.
- Banded Mysterysnail
- Chinese Mystersnail
- Flowering Rush
- Freshwater Golden Clam
- Japanese Stiltgrass
- Red-eared Slider
- Water Hyacinth
- Water Lettuce
- Yellow Floating Heart
For Further Information: