The spread of invasive exotic species is one of the major causes of loss of biodiversity after habitat loss. These exotics not only pose risks to the health of people (for example, the poisonous lionfish or the Chikungunya virus), animals (such as the American cane toad that is toxic to dogs) or plants, but can also entirely exterminate local species that are not found anywhere else.
A major reason for the import of invasive exotics in the Caribbean Netherlands is the high demand on the islands for exotic plants to beautify hotels, apartments and villas. Based on the Principles for Nature Management and Nature Protection Act the Island Councils have the authority and in certain cases also the obligation to prevent the spread of exotics.
The Ministry of LNV has carried out studies into:
- Invasive animals on the land
- Invasive animals in the sea
- Invasive plant species
- Invasive pests and diseases in agriculture
Based on these data, the crucial elements for a joint strategy concerning invasive species for the Dutch Caribbean islands have been identified.