What is an invasive species?

An invasive species is any species (including its seeds, eggs, spores, or other biological material capable of propagation) that is not native to a given ecosystem, and whose presence causes economic or environmental harm, or harm to human health. Click here to learn more about Georgia's invasive plants.

Since invasive species are in a new environment, free from the natural predators, parasites, or competitors of their native habitats, they often develop very high populations. These large populations can out-compete and displace native species, or can reduce wildlife, food, and habitat. Some invasive species can reduce forest productivity by reducing tree growth rates, restricting tree seedling establishment, increasing fire hazard, and increasing site preparation costs. See photo to the right: