Invasive Species Terminology: Standardizing for Stakeholder Education

Authors

Basil V. Iannone III, University of Florida
Shannon Carnevale, University of Florida
Martin B. Main, University of Florida
Jeff E. Hill, University of Florida
Julie B. McConnell, University of Florida
Steven A. Johnson, University of Florida
Stephen F. Enloe, University of Florida
Michael Andreu, University of Florida
Emily C. Bell, University of Florida
James P. Cuda, University of Florida
Shirley M. Baker, University of Florida

Volume

58

Issue

3

DOI

10.34068/joe.58.03.27

Abstract

The excessive number of terms associated with invasive species, and their often incorrect usage, hinders stakeholder education about the threats of invasive species. Here we introduce seven terms (native, nonnative, introduced, established, invasive, nuisance, and range change) that are applicable across invasive taxa, understandable, typically interpreted correctly, and useful for describing most situations regarding invasive species. We also list six terms to avoid (native invasive, invasive exotic, invasive weed, alien, foreign, and nonindigenous) that create confusion via their misuse and misinterpretation. The terms we propose will increase understanding, thereby promoting behavior changes aimed at limiting the negative impacts of invasive species.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Iannone, B. V., Carnevale, S., Main, M. B., Hill, J. E., McConnell, J. B., Johnson, S. A., Enloe, S. F., Andreu, M., Bell, E. C., Cuda, J. P., & Baker, S. M. (2020). Invasive Species Terminology: Standardizing for Stakeholder Education. The Journal of Extension, 58(3), Article 27. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.03.27