Supriya Ghosh (Editor)

Invasive species of New Zealand origin

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Some species endemic to New Zealand are causing problems in other countries, similar to the way introduced species in New Zealand cause problems for agriculture and indigenous biodiversity.

Contents

Animals

  • The New Zealand mud snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) is an invasive species in many countries and has been present in Europe since 1859.
  • The New Zealand flatworm (Arthurdendyus triangulatus) is an invasive species in Europe where it preys on earthworms and degrades soil quality.

    • Plants

  • Taupata (Coprosma repens), also known as mirror bush, looking-glass bush, New Zealand laurel or shiny leaf, is a weed in Australia, Norfolk Island, South Africa and the U.S.A. (California and Hawaii).
  • Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa), sometimes called the New Zealand Christmas tree, is an invasive species in South Africa.
  • The biddy biddy (Acaena novae-zelandiae) is declared a noxious weed in the American states of Hawaii, California and Oregon.
  • New Zealand flax or harekeke (Phormium tenax) is an invasive species in some Pacific islands and in Australia.
  • Pohuehue (Muehlenbeckia complexa), also called wire vine, mattress vine and several other common names, is naturalised in Western Australia. Although it is a valued garden plant, it can become a pest in suitable climates (e.g. San Francisco's Golden Gate National Recreation Area) if not contained.
  • Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and kanuka (Kunzea ericoides) were planted in Hawaii during the early 20th century and have infested several islands.
  • Ngaio (Myoporum laetum) forms dense thickets in coastal areas of Southern California and Mexico and is therefore a serious weed.

    • References

    Invasive species of New Zealand origin Wikipedia
    (Text) CC BY-SA


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