Pacific Southwest Research Station

PSW Research Station's invasive species research strategy aims proactively to identify non-native and native organisms that pose a threat to California and Pacific island ecosystems through potential introductions. Methods are applied to assess risks, determine likely pathways for introduction, and describe ways through which introductions may be blocked. Important elements include development and delivery of tools for detection, accurate and rapid identification, and early response, and for mitigation and rehabilitation should establishment occur. Terrestrial and aquatic plants, pathogens, invertebrates, and vertebrates are addressed, but greatest emphasis is currently given to plants in Hawaii and forest pathogens in California.

Research Emphasis Areas

Aquatics

• Sacramento pikeminnow
• Introduced trout

Insects

• Bark beetles

Pathogens

• Sudden Oak Death (Phytophthora ramorum)
• White Pine Blister Rust

Plants

• Strawberry Guava
• Link Between Air Pollution and Invasive Plant Species