Invasions and Impacts of Exotic Species in Forests

Intensification in the volume of goods shipped internationally via sea, air and land has caused an increase in the number of exotic species introduced in forest ecosystems globally. This number is expected to rise due to expanding trade networks, which may incorporate new regions acting as sources of invasive species. Such species can be extremely damaging when introduced outside their native range, leading to severe economic and ecological impacts. For this reason, the development of strategies to reverse or at least slow down the rate of exotic species introductions represents a key priority for forestry. To address this challenge, it is essential to better understand the mechanisms driving the invasion process of exotic species in forest ecosystems at different spatial scales.

In this Research Topic, we aim to collect original research papers, reviews and opinion pieces, investigating the main factors affecting: i) the arrival, establishment and spread of exotic species in forest ecosystems; ii) the susceptibility of forest ecosystems to exotic species invasions; iii) the extent of ecological and economic impacts that exotic species can have in invaded forest ecosystems. Particular attention will be given to the effect of forest management on tackling invasions by exotic species. Papers on microorganisms, plants, and invertebrates are all welcome.