FABI Articles : The balance of trade in alien species between South Africa and the rest of Africa
previous pageThe balance of trade in alien species between South Africa and the rest of Africa
Katelyn T. Faulkner, Brett P. Hurley, Mark P. Robertson, Mathieu Rouget, John R.U. Wilson
Abstract
Background: Alien organisms are not only
introduced from one biogeographical region to another but also spread
within regions. As South Africa shares land borders with six countries,
multiple opportunities exist for the transfer of alien species between
South Africa and other African countries; however, the direction and
importance of intra-regional spread is unclear.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the
introduction of alien species into Africa and the spread of species
between South Africa and other African countries.
Method:
We developed scenarios that describe the routes by which alien species
are introduced to and spread within Africa and present case studies for
each. Using data from literature sources and databases, the relative
importance of each scenario for alien birds and insect pests of
eucalypts was determined, and the direction and importance of
intra-regional spread was assessed.
Results: Alien
species from many taxonomic groups have, through various routes, been
introduced to and spread within Africa. For birds and eucalypt insect
pests, the number of species spreading in the region has recently
increased, with South Africa being a major recipient of birds (14
species received and 5 donated) and a major donor of eucalypt insect
pests (1 species received and 10 donated). For both groups, many
introduced species have not yet spread in the region.
Conclusion:
The intra-regional spread of alien species in Africa represents an
important and possibly increasing threat to biosecurity. To address this
threat, we propose a framework that details how African countries could
cooperate and develop a coordinated response to alien species
introductions.
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