Science challenge

Species moved intentionally or unintentionally by humans from one part of the world to a new region where the species didn’t previously occur are termed non-native species. A proportion of non-native species spread causing damage to nature and the way we live and these are termed invasive non-native species. Invasive non-native species are a global problem. From challenging the survival of some species to transforming ecosystems, the impacts of invasive non-native species are severe and growing. The GB Non-native Species Information Portal provides access to information, including origin, date of introduction and methods of introduction, for over 2000 non-native species established in Britain. Such information is vital in tackling the growing problem of biological invasions.

Project summary

The GB Non-native Species Information Portal (GBNNSIP) provides access to distribution maps and other information for all non-native species in Britain. Funded by Defra and led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, the GBNNSIP was developed by a consortium of partners including the British Trust for Ornithology, Marine Biological Association and Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland.

The GBNNSIP has information on over 3000 non-native species of which about 2000 are considered to be established, that is having sustained populations in Britain.

Linked to the GBNNSIP is an online “alert system” that has enabled surveillance of many invasive non-native species, including the killer shrimp, Asian hornet, quagga mussel and two-leaf watermilfoil, all identified as high priority invasive non-native species through UKCEH-led horizon scanning. Observations of non-native species are submitted through citizen science initiatives such as the Asian Hornet Watch app (developed by UKCEH with funding from Defra).

The GBNNSIP is hosted through the Non-Native Species Secretariat website.

Objectives

• To improve the recording and flow of non-native species distribution in Britain and provide a central repository of useful information accessible to all stakeholders
• To provide an invasive non-native species alert system for GB.

Resources

Data

• The GBNNSIP holds data and information on over 3000 non-native species.

Presentations

Papers and reports

• NNSIP Score Card 2020
• NNSIP Project Report 2012
• Selected references

Interactions

UKCEH national capability

• Volunteers through the BRC hosted schemes and societies contribute to GBNNSIP
• Data is open and accessible and has been used for research, science communication and policy.

UKCEH co-aligned research

• The annual indicator B6 Pressure from Invasive Non-Native Species (Defra and JNCC)
• Studies to refine the current indicator and also comparison of actual and predicted trends of non-native species as a measure of the success of current biosecurity measures (Defra MoU)
• EC-funded research on invasive non-native species including enhancing understanding and communication of invasive alien species.

Partnerships

• The approach to horizon scanning developed through the GBNNSIP has led to a similar study in partnership with experts across all the UK Overseas Territories
• The COST Action network Alien CSI involves partners from across the EU and includes collaborations with the GBNNSIP project team.
• Collaborative research on invasive non-native species: global trends, data recommendations, horizon scanning across EU, detection of invasive non-native species, impact assessments, risk management, pathway management, drivers of future impacts
• Collaborative research on alien pathogens.