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One Health

A One Health approach to invertebrate invasive species

Invasive invertebrate species are non-native invertebrate animals that have been introduced to a new environment, where they have the potential to cause harm to the environment, human health, or the economy. Invasive invertebrates can be found in all ecosystems, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments.

Invasive invertebrate species are a major threat to global food security and sustainable agriculture. They can damage crops, reduce yields, and transmit diseases to livestock and humans. Invasive invertebrates can also have a significant impact on biodiversity, by competing with native species for resources and disrupting ecosystem processes.

Invasive invertebrate species can be introduced to new environments in a variety of ways, including trade, travel and accidental releases. Invasive species impacts are often irreversible and should be prioritized by decision makers in developing coordinated plans to mitigate the risk of impact in productive landscapes. Plant and forest health management is a pillar of One Health and the prevention and response to invasive pests in productive landscapes has a critical supporting role to play.

Kenya - Desert locusts stand on the local vegetation

The varroa destructor causes major economic losses to the beekeeping sector because it is widespread and it has a strong adaptability to the treatments. This mite affects both the brood and adult bees.

What problems can invasive invertebrate species cause?

⦿ Invasive invertebrates can damage crops, reduce yields, and transmit diseases to livestock and humans. This can lead to significant economic losses for farmers and food producers.

⦿ Invasive invertebrates can have a significant impact on biodiversity, by competing with native species for resources and disrupting ecosystem processes. They can also damage forests, grasslands, and other ecosystems.

⦿ Invasive invertebrates can transmit diseases to humans, such as Lyme disease, malaria, and West Nile virus. They can also cause allergic reactions and other health problems.

⦿ Invasive terrestrial invertebrates have cost the global economy over USD 712 billion up to 2020 and represent ongoing threats to the environment, livelihoods, biodiversity and ecosystem service benefits.

⦿ The cost of biological invasions, including invasive invertebrates, increased by 702 percent from 1980-1999.

⦿ The rate of invasive species introductions seems to be growing with new invasions estimated to increase by 35 percent worldwide in the near future.

⦿ Pesticide centered management regimes against invasive insect pests are carbon intensive, generating up to 136.6 M2CO2 equivalent per year. Innovating and prioritizing pest management solutions that rely on conservation and utilization of biodiversity are of paramount importance.

© FAO/Arete/Ismail Taxta
© FAO/Haji Dirir

Somalia - The eLocust3 app tracing hopper bands of locusts in a remote area at the outskirts of Garowe. FAO in Somalia is continuously finding innovative ways to respond to and mitigate desert locust crises. 

 

How is FAO is working to combat the threat of invasive invertebrate species?

⦿ Providing technical assistance to countries: FAO provides technical assistance to countries to help them develop and implement national invasive species management strategies. This assistance can include training on invasive species identification and management, support for the development of early warning systems, and help with the implementation of control and eradication programmes.

⦿ Raising awareness: FAO works to raise awareness of the issue of invasive invertebrate species and to promote international cooperation on this important issue. FAO publishes educational materials, organizes workshops and training courses, and works with governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations to raise awareness of the problem and to promote action. FAO also facilitating four regional forest invasive species networks covering 90 countries.

⦿ Supporting research: FAO supports research on invasive invertebrate species, including research on their biology, ecology, and management. This research is essential for developing effective control and eradication strategies.

What can be done to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive invertebrate species?

⦿ Quarantine and border protection measures: Countries can implement quarantine and border protection measures to prevent the introduction of invasive pests and diseases. These measures may include inspecting goods and personal belongings for invasive species, and requiring the treatment or destruction of contaminated goods.

⦿ Public awareness and education: Public awareness and education campaigns can help to reduce the risk of accidental introductions of invasive species. These campaigns can teach people about the risks of invasive species and how to prevent them from introducing invasive species to new environments.

⦿ Early detection and rapid response: Early detection and rapid response systems can help to prevent the establishment and spread of invasive species. These systems involve monitoring for invasive species and taking quick action to eradicate them if they are detected.