Invasive Species: A Growing Threat to Native Ecosystems

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This chapter explores the problem of invasive species and the need for attention and resources to manage them. It discusses the importance of early detection, eradication, and the threat they pose to native ecosystems, while also touching on the thriving of social insects due to climate change and human-driven trade. It concludes with a call for a social debate on accepting or resisting change in ecosystems.

Asian hornets have been spotted in the UK in record numbers this year, sparking concern about what their presence could mean for our native insects, and in particular bee populations. Madeleine Finlay speaks to ecologist Prof Juliet Osborne about why this species of hornet is so voracious, how European beekeepers have been impacted by their arrival, and how scientists and the government are attempting to prevent them from becoming established here. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod