What global databases track invasive species?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Three primary global databases monitor invasive species, each with its own area of specialization. The IUCN's Global Invasive Species Database catalogs over 1,200 invasive species deemed high-risk, and provides management options for each species. CABI Compendium includes over 2,400 pests that threaten agricultural sectors and food systems, impacting food security. The UN Global Register comprises lists of invasive species from over 200 countries, featuring more than 35,000 species.
IUCN GISD
- Risk assessments: Predictive models for 500+ high-threat species
- Management case studies: 300+ successful eradication examples
- Real-time alerts: New invasion reports from 150+ countries
- Public access: Free species profiles and distribution maps
CABI Compendium
- Crop focus: Detailed impact reports on staple crops
- Biological controls: Natural predator solutions for 700+ pests
- Economic data: Damage estimates for 120+ commodities
- Research library: 15,000 peer-reviewed references
UN Global Register
- National inventories: Verified checklists for 200 countries
- Policy tools: SDG progress tracking for invasive control
- Climate integration: Range shift projections using IPCC data
- Reporting standards: Unified taxonomy across governments
The Global Invasive Species Information Network allows these systems to work together. While I was researching Asian Carp, I compared and contrasted the GISD risk assessments with CABI's control methods and GRIIS distribution maps. This enables the compilation and management of thorough data across various ecosystem types.
Climate change components are becoming increasingly integrated. GISD models the northward movement in warming scenarios in terms of the abundance of specific species. CABI predicts the range of migratory pests for crops. GRIIS is tracking the movement of marine species boundaries. My data indicate that Mediterranean species are migrating into the Atlantic at a faster rate than expected.
Public contributions help to enhance data quality. You can report observations through the GISD Early Alert Network or the GRIIS Citizen Science portals. I have verified over 200 public submissions that have become official records. Your observations are invaluable in tracking invasions in real time.
Read the full article: Comprehensive Invasive Species List
