Harmful Aquatic Creatures on the Rampage: Nine Intrusive Animal Species Wreaking Havoc Across America

In the vast and diverse landscapes of North America, a silent threat is on the rise. Invasive species, brought to the continent through human activities, are causing significant disruptions to the ecosystems they have come to inhabit.

One such example is the Cane Toad, a toxic creature that poses a danger to pets. Its toxic skin can cause harm if touched, highlighting the potential risks of introducing non-native species into new environments.

The Great Lakes, a vital freshwater resource, have been severely affected by another invasive species - the Zebra Mussel. Originating from European waters, these tiny mussels have caused millions of dollars in repairs each year. They attach to pipes and boat propellers, and their filter-feeding habits have even led to a dramatic change in the lake's water clarity, potentially causing stress to light-sensitive fish.

The Zebra Mussel's presence in the Great Lakes is thought to be due to a glut of pet mussels being discarded when they grew too big. This is a stark reminder of the impact that irresponsible pet ownership can have on the environment.

In Florida, the problem of invasive species is particularly acute. The state is home to multiple invasive snake species, including the Burmese python and boa constrictor. These snakes have caused significant harm to native birds and small mammals, with some instances of pythons growing large enough to kill and eat alligators.

The boa constrictor, a common invasive snake in Florida, has been known to attack humans as well. Another invasive species from Eastern Asia, the snakehead fish, has made its way to America and is known for its aggressive nature and ability to eat various creatures, including humans and other fish.

Elsewhere in the country, other invasive species are causing their own brand of chaos. The Gypsy Moth, present in the United States for nearly 100 years, has seen its population spiral out of control. Each Gypsy Moth nest can hold up to 1,000 eggs, and these insects have an especially voracious appetite for trees, stripping them clean.

In 2010 alone, Stink Bugs caused $37 million dollars in damages to apple farmers. Native to China, these bugs have been able to breed in America unchecked since their arrival in 1998.

European Starlings, introduced to the United States in 1890, have also caused issues. Their droppings, riddled with disease-causing bacteria, have led to health problems. Furthermore, these birds often steal nesting sites and break eggs of native birds.

Feral hogs, residing in large numbers within Louisiana, are another source of concern. Known for rooting through plots of farm land, they cost up to $1.5 billion annually. Asian Carp, introduced to American waters as a means to keep them clean and free from parasites and weeds, have also caused problems. They are able to leap over low dams to lay their eggs in previously unpopulated sections of water.

While these invasive species pose significant challenges, there are also success stories. For instance, the bearded vulture (Bartgeier) reintroduction project in the Klausbachtal at the Nationalpark Berchtesgaden, Germany, has been a well-documented and successful wildlife conservation effort.

It is crucial that we remain vigilant in our efforts to combat invasive species and protect our ecosystems. The consequences of inaction can be far-reaching and devastating, as these examples demonstrate.