Semester of Graduation
Summer 2024
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
School of Renewable Natural Resources
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Invasive invertebrate species is a global issue that negatively impacts biodiversity, economics, and human health. Freshwater habitats are particularly at-risk to invasive invertebrates, and the aquarium trade has been found to be an important pathway for “hitchhiker” species introductions into several freshwater systems. A horizon scan is necessary to identify potential invasive invertebrates in the United States, and a human dimensions study of aquarium trade stakeholders is an integral part of this assessment. The horizon scan consisted of a literature review of global invasive invertebrates globally, and development of an expert-based prioritized list of invasive invertebrates by geographic region. In the human dimension study, a survey with science-based and attitude-based questions investigated attitudes and behaviors of aquarists and non-aquarists regarding the potential of the aquarium trade as a pathway for invertebrate introductions. Analysis focused on response differences between aquarium hobbyists and the public, and I hypothesized that aquarists will be better educated on the topic of potential introductions than non-aquarists. I also expected aquarists to exhibit more positive attitudes and behaviors towards the environment than non-aquarists. The horizon scan list building process produced >7,600 potential invasive species, and the horizon scan climate match and filtering process reduced to a list of 587 taxa for subsequent scoring. My survey did not support either hypothesis, and instead, determined that experience level better explained differences among aquarists.
Date
7-8-2024
Recommended Citation
Brown, Joseph V., "Risk Assessment of Invasive Species in the United States" (2024). LSU Master's Theses. 5998.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/5998
Committee Chair
Kaller, Michael D.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.31390/gradschool_theses.5998