America’s Most Wanted: 5 Invasive Species Destroying Ecosystems Across the U.S.
Asian Carp: Originally introduced to control algae in aquaculture, Asian carp have spread rapidly in U.S. waterways, outcompeting native species and disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
Zebra Mussels: These small, invasive mussels have spread across many U.S. lakes and rivers, clogging water intake structures, outcompeting native mussels, and altering ecosystems by filtering out plankton.
Burmese Python: Native to Southeast Asia, Burmese pythons have established a breeding population in the Florida Everglades, where they prey on native wildlife, leading to significant declines in local populations.
Kudzu: Often referred to as "the vine that ate the South," kudzu was introduced for erosion control but has since spread uncontrollably, smothering native plants and trees.
Emerald Ash Borer: This invasive beetle from Asia has devastated ash tree populations across the U.S., killing millions of trees and causing significant ecological and economic damage.
Nutria: Originally brought to the U.S. for fur farming, nutria have become a destructive force in wetlands, consuming vegetation and damaging infrastructure, leading to erosion and loss of habitat.
European Starling: Introduced in the 19th century, European starlings have become one of the most widespread invasive birds in the U.S., outcompeting native bird species for food and nesting sites.
Gypsy Moth: This invasive moth has caused extensive damage to forests by defoliating trees, particularly oaks, and disrupting forest ecosystems across the northeastern U.S.
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