Download Patterns of Biological Invasions

Patterns of Biological Invasions Public Lecture by Professor Erik Arndt (Anhalt University of Applied Sciences) Tuesday, 28 May 2013 at 1800 NBRR, Department of Biology University of Malta Attendance is free of charge. Anybody wishing to attend is kindly asked to contact Ms Michaela Stivala, at the Department of Biology, University of Malta. Tel: 2340 2272 Email: [email protected] Patterns of biological invasions Biological invasions describe range expansion of species in which the transport was mediated directly or indirectly by humans. "Invasive Alien Species" (IAS) are defined by the European Union as those that are, firstly, outside their natural area of distribution, and secondly, which threaten native biological diversity (EU 2008). The presentation will demonstrate the typical pattern of invasion (i.e. introduction; range expansion; establishment of an ecological equilibrium) and will examine which factors promote biological invasions. Colonisation by IAS are often accompanied by the extinction of native species, especially on islands. Extinction of species and alteration of whole ecosystems are the worst impacts of biological invasions. The presentation will address the question if all IAS affect native ecosystems and their species and will discuss pathways of invasion.