Invasive SpeciesThe world is under attack; by aliens from our own planet. These aliens are known as invasive species. Government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have identified invasive species as living organisms that are not native to an ecosystem and their introduction can harm the environment, to infrastructure and people. When these creatures are in their natural ecosystem, they can be controlled by predators and other organisms that have evolved to take care of them. Without these opponents, invasive species can and will cause economic and biological damage to the area into which they are introduced. Invasive species can affect anyone and anything and must be stopped. In order to stop them, a strict invasive species management program must be put in place. Invasive species are a widespread problem worldwide. Some of the most well-known invasive species in the United States are the emerald ash borer, Asian carp, and Africanized bee. Invasive species cause extreme harm to wildlife and the economy. By 2019, it is estimated that the emerald ash borer will have cost the United States $10.7 billion (Kovacs et al, 2010). A classic example of an invasive species is the brown tree snake on the island of Guam. This resulted in the extinction of ten of twelve native forest bird species. With few predators, their population density is estimated at more than 3,000 snakes per square mile (University of Washington, 2008). Like other invasive species, the problems caused by the brown snake do not stop there. They are often the cause of power outages on the island after slipping onto power lines. Cost In the United States...... middle of paper ...... th threat of invasive species without the aid of a strict invasive species management program. Invasive species cause serious damage to the ecosystem by competing for the same food sources as native species, including prey. Even invasive plants harm the ecosystem by stopping the growth of native plants. Many efforts have been made to prevent invasive species from harming the Everglades, such as the inclusion of large constrictor snakes in the Lacey Act and the creation of the Python Patrol. But these measures are not enough because they are reactionary. The most effective way to combat invasive species is to start by preventing them from entering the country. This way they will never approach areas they could harm. To truly put an end to invasive species, government legislation must take them into account. Invasive species pose a threat that can be eliminated.