Trends in demands of listed invasive species in South Africa

Trends in demands of listed invasive species in South Africa
Livhuwani R. NNZERU1, Moleseng C. Moshobane2,3, Khathutshelo Nelukalo1
1Biosecurity directorate, Department of Environmental Affairs, Cape Town, South Africa
2Invasive Species Programme, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Kirstenbosch Research Centre, Cape Town, South Africa

Invasive alien species are a major global concern due to their widespread negative impacts on biodiversity and agriculture. Invasion biology is inextricably linked to both biological phenomena and societal phenomena. Many factors influence the spread dynamics and distribution species including human-mediated dispersal because humans move species beyond their native ranges both intentionally or accidentally, and become established and spread.

DEA species permitting application database records from 2014-2015 were studied. The records were analysed and compared between listed invasive species and across provinces and taxa. The DEA dealt with 221 applications and issued 223 permits for 48 species. The DEA permitting records indicated that Mammals have the highest number of applications and permits issued and followed by the fresh-water fish species, reptiles, marine invertebrate’s species, plants, fresh water invertebrates species accounted for, and no permits issued for the other taxa. The human element is manageable effectively through legislation and public awareness. Therefore, successful management of AIS requires an understanding of spatial patterns of dispersal and the driving factor. The results provide quantitative evidence in support of the hypothesis that human-mediated dispersal is a pivotal to estimations of current and future spread of alien invasive species across the world.