Spotted lanternflies, Japanese barberry, Oriental bittersweet – When plants and animals like these invade our environment, they can disrupt other organisms that are native to the region. But can we stop these species? And should we?
invasive species
Posted inEnvironment, Possibly Podcast
Should we be concerned about red seaweed washing up on Rhode Island’s beaches?
Red seaweed has been washing up on Rhode Island beaches for years, but what is it? This week on Possibly we explain what’s causing this red seaweed to appear, how it’s different from harmful “red tides” and how it might help the planet.
Posted inEnvironment, Possibly Podcast
What should you do when you see spotted lanternflies?
Spotted lanternflies have been hopping around Rhode Island this year. Maybe you’ve been told to squish them when you see them. But why? This week on Possibly we’re taking a closer look at our new insect neighbors.
Posted inNPR
To save its unique and rare birds, New Zealand is turning to AI and genetic research
New Zealand is planning to eradicate millions of invasive animals that prey on the country’s rare birds. The goal may not be possible, unless new technology can be developed to do it.
Posted inNPR
To save its rare birds, New Zealand is relying on a nation of backyard trappers
New Zealand’s unique birds are at risk of extinction, like the kiwi. So the country is trying to eradicate the invasive species that prey on them. Everyday people are lining up to help.
Posted inEnvironment, Local, Metro Desk
How an innocent mistake left a Cranston lake strangled by invasive plants
It may look beautiful, but the sacred lotus has been taking over Cranston’s Meshanticut Lake. When the plant native to East Asia (scientific name Nelumbo nucifera) sinks its roots into the lake bottom, it spreads a blanket of green lily pads and purple flowers across the water at a rate that can crowd out native […]
Posted inNPR
By removing invasive bullfrogs, scientists help Yosemite’s native turtles recover
The huge amphibians “will literally just feed on anything that fits into their mouth” — including turtle hatchlings. Clearing thousands of frogs from ponds helped other species stage a comeback.
Posted inNPR
Invasive green crabs threaten West Coast ecosystems. One solution? Otters
As invasive green crabs wreak havoc on California’s estuaries, a new study has found that a restored sea otter population might be the solution.
Posted inNPR
You might beat back phragmites, the scourge of wetlands, but then what?
Wetlands managers have spent years using fire and chemicals to fight phragmites, an invasive reed that chokes everything else out. But coaxing beneficial native plants to move back in is difficult.
Posted inNPR
Meet the ManhattAnt, the ant that’s taken New York’s streets by storm
The ManhattAnt has become the dominant ant species in the Big Apple, and scientists aren’t sure why.
