Invasive Plants, Pests and Pathogens

Research topics > Invasives

Invasive plants, animals and pathogens cause significant changes in natural ecosystems. Exotic organisms compete with and predate on native species, directly change local environments and alter ecosystem structure and process. Exotic pests and pathogens, such as the chestnut blight, gypsy moth, Dutch elm disease, and beech bark disease have exerted a profound effect on New England forests, including the near elimination of several important trees.

Studies at Harvard Forest include:

• HWA - Hemlock Woolly Adelgid
• Invasive Plants