The introduction of invasive species into new environments is a problem that plagues the entire planet. This environmental problem costs businesses millions of dollars every year. Exotic species would be diminished if more people were educated to their effects. There are many reasons for addressing this world wide problem in which little has been done. Some of these are protection of the species in the community, control costly damage to businesses by introduction of exotic species, and understanding the need for natural species to survive. .
Exotic species are everywhere you turn. They are in the United States as bacteria, plants, insects, marine life, and animals. On February 3, 1999, President Clinton signed an executive order dealing with invasive species in the United States. The order was designed to lay the foundation of the program "to prevent the introduction of invasive species and provide for their control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive species cause." With ever growing international commerce, reduced barriers to trade, and increasing human influence, species are moving around, and natural systems are suffering drastic changes. .
When these exotic species come into the country, they disturb the natural interactions of the local food chain. Upon their introduction, they are placed into an environment in which they can survive, with no natural enemy. This is the reason why exotic species can decimate entire local populations of organisms. .
In New York City, circa 1904, a fungus (cryphonectria parasitica) from Asia was discovered. This fungus caused mass devastation to the American chestnut trees. These trees inhabited the eastern deciduous forests from Maine to Georgia and west of the Ohio River Valley. The American chestnut tree was a staple to the local inhabitants. The trunks could grow up to ten feet in diameter and they provided ample rot-resistant lumber.
