Invasive Species Compendium: A Global Resource for Biosecurity
Managing the spread of non-native organisms is a critical challenge for global biodiversity and economic stability. To address this, the Invasive Species Compendium (ISC) serves as a comprehensive, online encyclopedic reference designed to help professionals and researchers identify and manage invasive plants and animals.
Developed by CAB International in collaboration with an international consortium, the ISC provides a centralized hub of scientific knowledge to combat the ecological and economic threats posed by invasive species.
Key Facts
- Developer: Produced by CAB International and an international consortium.
- Scope: Covers recognition, biology, distribution, impact, and management of invasive flora and fauna.
- Content Types: Includes peer-reviewed datasheets, maps, images, a bibliographic database, and full-text articles.
- Update Frequency: New data sets, datasheets, and scientific literature are added weekly.
- Funding: Resourced by government departments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private companies.
Comprehensive Data for Invasive Species Management
The ISC is more than a simple list; it is a dynamic tool that integrates multiple forms of scientific evidence. By utilizing peer-reviewed datasheets—documents that have been evaluated by experts in the field to ensure accuracy—the compendium ensures that users have access to reliable information for decision-making.
The resource focuses on five primary pillars of invasive species knowledge:
- Recognition: Tools and descriptions to accurately identify species.
- Biology: Detailed information on the life cycle and characteristics of the organism.
- Distribution: Mapping where species are currently located and where they are spreading.
- Impact: Analysis of the damage caused to local ecosystems or economies.
- Management: Proven strategies and methods for controlling or eradicating the species.
A Collaborative Global Effort
The strength of the ISC lies in its collaborative nature. It is supported by a diverse international consortium, meaning the data is gathered and funded by a mix of private companies, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. This ensures a wide breadth of geographic and technical expertise.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parent Resource | CABI Compendium |
| Primary Content | Peer-reviewed datasheets, maps, and full-text articles |
| Update Cycle | Weekly |
| Target Species | Invasive plants and animals |
| Funding Sources | Governments, NGOs, and private sector |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Invasive Species Compendium?
The ISC is an online, encyclopedic reference resource that provides detailed information on the biology, distribution, and management of invasive plants and animals.
Who produces the ISC?
It is produced by CAB International in partnership with an international consortium of private companies, NGOs, and government departments.
How often is the information updated?
The compendium is updated on a weekly basis with new scientific literature, data sets, and datasheets.
What types of materials can be found in the ISC?
Users can access peer-reviewed datasheets, images, distribution maps, a bibliographic database, and full-text scientific articles.
Is the information in the ISC verified?
Yes, the compendium utilizes peer-reviewed datasheets to ensure the scientific accuracy of the information provided.