Say the words “invasive species” in relation to water quality, and most folks immediately think of zebra mussels, Asian carp, and hydrilla.
Yet, terrestrial invasives such as wintercreeper, bush honeysuckle, and Tree of Heaven can also threaten our area rivers, streams, and lakes just as much as their aquatic counterparts.
An invasive species is one not native to the Ozarks, whose introduction will likely cause economic or environmental damage, or harm human, animal, and plant health.
Generally, invasives easily adapt to environmental conditions, out-compete native species, and create a monoculture with no biological diversity.
