Investigate the instances of unwanted exotics being released into the wild. a) What are some of the common species that have been identified as being nonnative? b) What problems are created when nonnative species invade a habitat?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

a) This information may be gathered from many web sites by using any search engine with key words such as release of unwanted pets, non-native species, and invasive species. Three of the most commonly released are: Green Iguanas, Burmese Pythons, and aquatic turtles.

b) Problems are created by the release of non-native, or exotic, species. One such problem occurs if non-native or exotic species become invasive and establish wild populations that destroy the habitat and food sources for native, often endangered, species.
A second concern is the potential introduction of disease to native species. Many animals may carry diseases that are asymptomatic and relatively harmless to the carrier animal, but could decimate a population with no previous exposure or immunity. There is also the potential of introducing disease to agricultural livestock. One example of this involves the African Pygmy Hedgehog. It was banned from importation because wild-caught specimens were identified as potential carriers of anthrax. An outbreak of anthrax in agricultural animals would be devastating to the economy and food supply. Anthrax is a zoonotic disease.
A third concern is that non-native species feed on native species. They can be a threat to native species, as well as a danger to people. An example of this can be found in the Florida Everglades. The Burmese Python is perfectly suited to this environment and, as such, has become established as an invasive species, large enough to consume many endangered species found only in the Everglades. The text also refers to the release of three pet Spiny Tailed Iguanas. These three and their offspring have produced several hundred iguanas that are wreaking havoc on a small Florida community