The Réunion group of invasive species (SECTOR) put a new version of its site online at the end of August, www.especesinvasives.re, on which Reunion Islanders are invited to report unwanted animals or plants that they come across during their walks, in their garden or public space. The “reporting” part of the site allows you to share a photo, a location and any other useful information.
Descriptive sheets for invasive species are also online, as well as the list of species prohibited in the territory and the regulations in force.
The GEIR recalls that invasive exotic species represent a real danger for the natural environments of the island and the native species that live there., but also for economic activities (agriculture, forestry, tourism). Furthermore, they represent health risks : rats carry leptospirosis, the colonist’s agama carries salmonella…
Mapping the distribution of invasive species should provide a better understanding of the phenomena of biological invasions linked to the introduction, voluntary or not, of unwanted species. The site, by soliciting the participation of all Reunion Islanders, contributes to it. More than 2,000 plant species have been introduced to Reunion Island, 131 are considered invasive. Excluding insects and molluscs, the island also has 70 introduced animal species, including 14 considered invasive.
