Invasive Species Management in Aquatic Ecosystems Techniques and Challenges

Abstract

Invasive species in aquatic environments (AIS) represent one of the greatest contributors to the loss of biodiversity from freshwater and estuarine habitats. These organisms pose serious challenges to the stability of the environment and the safety of waters, as well as to human economic ventures reliant upon healthy aquatic ecosystems. However, despite growing concern globally about this problem, the management of AIS continues to be compromised by poor detection systems, complicated ecology, costly intervention measures, and the threat of reinvasion. The current study evaluates the impact of AIS management programs at multiple locations across eight sites in freshwater lakes, rivers, wetlands, and reservoirs from five continents. Mechanical, chemical, biological, and integrated management strategies were examined during monitoring periods spanning 24–54 months. Findings suggest that integrated strategies resulted in the highest mean population reductions (83.6 ± 4.3%) and native species recovery indices (87% after 36 months), significantly higher than for any of the single-techniques. Biological control techniques provided slower initial recovery rates but maintained steady recovery rates. The combination of eDNA testing and satellite-enabled mapping improved early detection capacity, leading to an average reduction of 11.4 months in the time taken for detection than conventional surveys. Results clearly indicate that eco-adaptive multi-technique-based management systems backed up with strong monitoring systems and governance across sectors provide the best way forward for AIS control.