Biological Invasions in South Africa

This open-access book provides a comprehensive account of biological invasions in South Africa, covering history, policy, management, and future scenarios. The country's diverse ecosystems and disproportionate investment in research and management make it a valuable resource for other regions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 975 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive open-access volume explores the intricate realm of biological invasions in South Africa, a region where extensive research has been conducted over three decades, and innovative initiatives have been implemented to combat and mitigate the ecological, economic, and social impacts of these invasions. Spanning a wide range of themes, the book delves into the historical backdrop, policy development, and implementation processes related to managing biological invasions. It provides a detailed account of the status of invasions across terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each environment. Moreover, it explores the development of a robust ecological theory surrounding biological invasions, examining the factors that contribute to their establishment, spread, and impact. The effectiveness of management interventions is also examined, with a focus on identifying the most effective strategies and approaches for controlling and reducing the impacts of invasions. Additionally, the book presents scenarios for the future, considering the potential trends and challenges that may arise in the context of biological invasions in South Africa and beyond.

The South African context stands out due to the country's remarkable diversity and the diverse range of ecosystems it encompasses. This has led to a significant investment in both research and management efforts, ensuring that the country is well-equipped to address the challenges posed by biological invasions. The South African experience holds valuable lessons for other regions facing similar challenges. The book is of immense value to researchers, students, managers, and policy-makers involved in biological invasions, ecosystem management, and conservation efforts in many other parts of the world. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of biological invasions, developing effective management strategies, and promoting sustainable conservation practices.

Weight: 1488g
Dimension: 158 x 233 x 60 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030323967
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020