Aliens in the sub-Antarctic - biosecurity and climate change

Abstract

Alien species constitute the biggest risk to the integrity of terrestrial sub-Antarctic ecosystems. The number of alien species is related to island size, temperature, human occupancy and visitation. Increasing numbers of tourists and expeditioners, combined with an amelioration in conditions associated with climate change are likely to result in an increasing number of alien species arriving at sub-Antarctic islands, as well as an increase in the distribution of existing alien species. Biosecurity is considered to be the most appropriate tool to minimise new introductions and establishment of alien species and to manage existing populations.