Invasive and Introduced Plants and Animals: Human Perceptions, Attitudes and Approaches to Management

Description

There have been many well-publicized cases of invasive species of plants and animals, often introduced unintentionally but sometimes on purpose, causing widespread ecological havoc. Examples of such alien invasions include pernicious weeds such as Japanese knotweed, an introduced garden ornamental which can grow through concrete, the water hyacinth which has choked tropical waterways, and many introduced animals which have out-competed and displaced local fauna. This book addresses the broader context of invasive and exotic species, in terms of the perceived threats and environmental concerns which surround alien species and ecological invasions. As a result of unprecedented scales of environmental change, combined with rapid globalisation, the mixing of cultures and diversity, and fears over biosecurity and bioterrorism, the known impacts of particular invasions have been catastrophic. However, as several chapters show, reactions to some exotic species, and the justifications for interventions in certain situations, including biological control by introduced natural enemies, rest uncomfortably with social reactions to ethnic cleansing and persecution perpetrated across the globe. The role of democracy in deciding and determining environmental policy is another emerging issue. In an increasingly multicultural society this raises huge questions of ethics and choice. At the same time, in order to redress major ecological losses, the science of reintroduction of native species has also come to the fore, and is widely accepted by many in nature conservation. However, with questions of where and when, and with what species or even species analogues, reintroductions are acceptable, the topic is hotly debated. Again, it is shown that many decisions are based on values and perceptions rather than objective science. Including a wide range of case studies from around the world, his book raises critical issues to stimulate a much wider debate.

Ian Rotherham is a leading researcher and writer on ecological history with a long-standing interest in exotic and invasive animals and plants. He is a Reader, Director of the Geography, Tourism, and Environment Research Unit, and International Research Co-ordinator at Sheffield Hallam University, UK. Rob Lambert has a dual appointment at the University of Nottingham, UK, as lecturer in environmental history and lecturer in tourism and the environment. He is also a Senior Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Western Australia and co-editor of the journal Environment and History.

'...a truly momentous, provocative and at times, hilarious analysis of the incredibly complex, controversial and conflict-ridden world of invasive and introduced plants and animals. In bridging the gap between objective science and subjective sociocultural fashions and values, this compelling tome dares to go 'where no one has gone before', with its rich and diverse consideration of the multi-faceted issues surrounding species invasions and introductions. Be warned! After devouring this, you'll never look at plants and animals in quite the same way ever again... This is a clarion call - no more excuses.' - Sarah Simons, Executive Director, Global Invasive Species Programme. 'An interesting and much-needed book that tackles an important aspect of invasive alien species: how they are perceived, valued and judged by humans. The volume draws together a broad range of fascinating case studies and is very thought-provoking. A must for any serious invasion ecologist.' - Robert A. Francis, King's College London, and Secretary of the British Ecological Society Invasive Species Special Interest Group. 'For an ecologist it is a salutary experience to examine this excellent record of the widespread confusion and conflict that has surrounded the human response to invasive species. Is this a humiliating testament to the immature and fragmentary state of our subject or should we admit that local, cultural, economic, political and sentimental forces are more important and will often dictate an unpredictable course of action?' - Professor Philip Grime, University of Sheffield, UK.