A New Zealand consultant says invasive species are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity ecosystems of remote Pacific islands such as American Samoa.
Dr. Dave Butler of the Pacific Island Invasive Learning Network was speaking this week at the Invasive Species Prevention Workshop for Customs agents in Pago Pago.
He said that because of the isolation and remote situation of American Samoa and other Pacific Islands nations, they are highly vulnerable to invasion bny destructive species that can result in catastrophic loss of biodiversity and other impacts.
Dr Butler believes that invasive species are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in island ecosystems and can pose a large threat to agriculture, health, tourism, and other economic activities.
He said invasive plants and animals can spread unchecked, disrupting natural cycles and can cost billions of dollrs.
