Abstract:
Exotic invertebrates make up a sizeable, and growing, proportion of invertebrates in both Australia and New Zealand. However, there is a general lack of awareness of the impacts (realised or potential) of invasive invertebrates, and very few species have a high public profile. Border interception records show the sheer number and diversity of invertebrates being transported around the globe by human trade. In-depth studies on empty sea containers, ants and forestry insects, confirm that trade pathways are regularly contaminated with timber, agricultural and nuisance arthropod pests. A principal feature of the biosecurity systems in Australia and New Zealand is their holistic nature of managing invasive species through assessing threats pre-border, having high levels of surveillance at the border, and their rapid response to any incursions of new species. However, despite these systems many new species establish each year. Several issues are discussed that will be important over the next few decades: (i) the need for evidence of ecological impacts; (ii) climate change and trade liberalisation (which will affect which species will become invasive in the future); and (iii) improved technology and capability (needed to show there is the ability to manage invasive invertebrates).