Biological Invasions in a Changing World: Introduction to the Special Issue

Welcome to the Special Issue of the NEOBIOTA Conference Scientific Papers entitled “Biological Invasions in a Changing World”. The urgency of halting biodiversity loss and mitigating the threats to ecosystem services, sustainable development and human well-being posed by biological invasions is all the more urgent in the current context of climate change and geopolitical issues. The recent NEOBIOTA conference, held in Tartu, Estonia, 12–16 September 2022, provided an arena for the exchange of cutting-edge scientific and practical knowledge on a wide range of biological invasions. This Special Issue aims to present a selection of findings from this conference, highlighting various topics and their practical applicability, and fostering an interdisciplinary discussion on solutions and preventive measures.

One of the central themes of this issue is understanding the role of alien and native pathogens in the establishment and spread of invasive species. The papers in this theme, such as those by Fischer et al. (2023) [1], provide in-depth investigations of specific cases such as Egyptian geese, neozoic birds that have successfully spread across several continents. Their research uncovers fascinating aspects of the parasitological status of these geese and possible factors contributing to their successful global spread, which may have practical implications for the management of similar biological invasions.

Krokaite et al. (2023) [2] turn our attention to valuable wetland habitats by examining the case of an invasive herb species, purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). They analyse the concentrations of different elements in the leaves of L. salicaria populations and relate these elemental data to the species’ polymorphism and habitat conditions. Their results may provide valuable data for understanding and managing invasive species in different habitats.

Another critical issue highlighted in this Special Issue is the specific impact of invasive species on different habitats. Papers such as those by Beleem et al. (2023) [3] and Aluma et al. (2023) [4] provide valuable insights into how invasive species can alter unique ecosystems, including freshwater and marine ecosystems. Aluma et al. (2023) [4] address the increasing threat of invasive non-native crayfish species to native crayfish populations in Estonia’s freshwater ecosystems. They analyse the distribution and impact of these non-native crayfish on noble crayfish populations. Their findings highlight the need for continued and increased monitoring efforts to control the spread of non-native crayfish species. Beleem et al. (2023) [3] experimentally investigate the impact of the invasive mud crab on bladder wrack dominated habitats in the Baltic Sea under different temperature conditions. The authors document how the predation of the invasive species has far-reaching ecological consequences, disrupting the food web and entire coastal ecosystems in the Baltic Sea. Their research highlights the complexity of biological invasions and the need for comprehensive and locally tailored management strategies.

The use of advanced modelling techniques to understand and predict the dynamics of invasive species is another topic covered in this issue. For example, Wadkin et al. (2023) [5] demonstrate the utility of mathematical modelling and Bayesian inference in studying the behaviour of invasive pests and demonstrate this approach using the oak processionary moth, a major invasive pest in the UK. Their research shows how a network model can be effectively used to describe the dynamics of invasive pests and provide predictive tools for future spread.

Finally, the topic of prioritising invasive alien species (IAS) management based on risk assessments is also addressed in this issue. Jauni et al. (2023) [6] exemplify this approach by providing an in-depth discussion of the development of management priorities for IAS of EU concern. Their research highlights the importance of considering local environmental conditions and threats when developing management strategies.

In summary, the studies presented in this Special Issue highlight the multifaceted and complex nature of biological invasions and underline the importance of interdisciplinary, data-driven and context-specific strategies to address this global problem. The findings reflect the scope of the NEOBIOTA conferences and capture its essence as a vibrant, global platform for shared knowledge, innovative ideas and actionable insights on biological invasions. The urgent need for forward-looking strategies, adaptive management plans and collaboration across geographic and disciplinary boundaries is clearer than ever. As we continue our scientific journey to understand and mitigate the impacts of biological invasions, it is important that we capitalise on the collective knowledge, innovative methodologies, and spirit of international cooperation embodied in these studies to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity for future generations.