Invasive species pose a threat to ecosystems and the economy

A UN-backed study reveals that invasive species are causing significant damage to ecosystems and costing the global economy $423 billion annually. These species are responsible for 60% of extinctions and their economic impact is quadrupling every decade. The main damage is done through the destruction of food supplies, disease spread, and depletion of fish reserves. The problem is exacerbated by the ease of transportation, allowing invasive species to hitchhike on cargo ships or planes. Solutions include prevention through increased checks at ports and eradication through new technologies or the introduction of targeted predators.