America’s Most Wanted: 5 Invasive Species Destroying Ecosystems Across the U.S.

Asian Carp (Hypophthalmichthys spp.): Asian carp, including the bighead and silver carp, are highly invasive fish species that have dramatically altered

Kudzu (Pueraria montana): Often referred to as "the vine that ate the South," kudzu is a fast-growing plant that smothers native vegetation and trees

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria): Purple loosestrife is a perennial plant that invades wetlands and water bodies

Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus): The Norway rat is an invasive rodent that has spread across the U.S. It poses significant threats to agriculture 

Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis): The emerald ash borer is a beetle that targets ash trees, causing extensive damage and mortality

Cane Toad (Rhinella marina): Originally introduced to control agricultural pests, the cane toad has become a major invasive species in the U.S.

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica): Japanese knotweed is a highly aggressive plant that can quickly invade and overtake garden beds

Feral Hog (Sus scrofa): Feral hogs are highly destructive omnivores that root up soil and consume a wide range of plant and animal species

Save For  More Stories