A review of the peer-reviewed literature was undertaken at the Centre for Invasion Biology (C·I·B) to determine the level of understanding of the impacts of invasions of all taxonomic groups in all natural and semi-natural ecosystems in South Africa.
Urban areas are foci for the introduction of alien species and very often act as launching sites for invasions into natural ecosystems that adjoin urban ecosystems. Until very recently, the study of biological invasions has focused on developing concepts and frameworks mainly for (semi)natural ecosystems.
Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) are highly successful invasive fish and are responsible for the decline of numerous native species. Reasons for their success has been poorly understood until now.
The high demand for ornamental plants at a global scale, combined with modern and increasingly efficient modes of trade (i.e., e-commerce), highlights the horticultural trade industry as a subject of major conservation concern.
Volunteers play an important role in invasive alien plant species (IAPS) management and are likely to continue doing so into the future. Better co-ordination and engagement between volunteers and mandated authorities on science, policy and management are required to improve the volunteer groups and keep volunteers motivated to manage IAPS.
