Read more about the article New monitoring and reporting framework aims to reduce the impacts of invasive alien species in World Heritage Sites
The Kogelberg Nature Reserve in the Cape Floristic Region World Heritage Site (photo credit Ross Shackleton)

New monitoring and reporting framework aims to reduce the impacts of invasive alien species in World Heritage Sites

World Heritage Sites contain cultural and natural heritage of outstanding value to humanity. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has inscribed 1,121 sites worldwide, of which nine are in South Africa—including four natural sites: the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas; the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park; Vredefort Dome; and Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Land.

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Read more about the article How many invasive species can our ecosystems tolerate?
Mice are the most widely distributed vertebrate in the world due to historical shipping and trade patterns. The image shows a mouse hitchhiking on marine ropes (photo: James Russell). This is but one example of the many species that are introduced accidentally as a result of tourism. More work is needed to fully understand the role of different pathways in introducing non-native species and to find ways of managing these pathways to reduce the associated risks.

How many invasive species can our ecosystems tolerate?

An increase of 20 to 30 percent in the number of invasive alien species will lead to dramatic biodiversity loss worldwide. This is one conclusion of a study by an international team of researchers led by C·I·B associate Franz Essl that was published in the journal Global Change Biology.

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Read more about the article Understanding different types of uncertainty in invasion science is crucial for effective management
The co-authors during the retreat that provided the perfect environment to nurture these reflexions. (Photo Credit: Sophia Turner)

Understanding different types of uncertainty in invasion science is crucial for effective management

Uncertainty is part and parcel of any scientific field. The point of scientific research is to acquire knowledge and to deal with different types of uncertainty to improve our understanding of natural phenomena and help us make projections about the future.

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