Invasive Species

Since the first European settlers began arriving on the North American continent, hundreds of new species of plants, animals and pathogens have been either intentionally or accidentally introduced. Although many have been incorporated into the landscape with little or no effect, others are more aggressive and threaten both species and landscapes.

Hundreds of non-indigenous plant species now occur in Michigan—up to one-third of our plant species may now be non-native. Several of the most invasive, including buckthorn, purple loosestrife and garlic mustard, were introduced deliberately for use as ornamentals or herbs. Without natural predators or parasites, these species often out-compete and displace indigenous populations.

Many invasive plants form dense monocultures that deprive native species of space, light and nutrients, altering the structure and composition of natural communities. Consequently, wildlife species are deprived of native food sources and other necessary habitat elements.

What can you do?

• Don't plant invasive species
• Plant native plants whenever possible
• Remove invasive plants from your own property and your community's natural areas
• Learn more . . .

Resources:

• Michigan Invasive Plant Species Fact Sheets
• Michigan Invasive Plant Species Field Guide

Useful Links:

• National Invasive Species Information Center
• Invasive Plant Atlas of New England
• The Nature Conservancy Global Invasive Species Initiative

Invasive Species information and Fact Sheets were developed with funding from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

For assistance with this site, email mnfi@msu.edu

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