The general lower native biodiversity, taxonomic disharmony and pressure on native ecosystems of islands implies less resilience to biological invasions.
The general lower native biodiversity, taxonomic disharmony and pressure on native ecosystems of islands implies less resilience to biological invasions. Therefore, it is necessary to consider that species that are not of major concern in mainland might represent a higher risk on islands. As a consequence, the collection of data should follow adapted protocols to islands dimensions and conditions. This would improve the quality and the reliability of data gathering of invasive species, including citizen science contributions, complementing research studies.
Some good examples of citizen engagement can be found in Spain and Portugal. In La Gomera (Canary Islands), different actions are being taken to remove Pennisetum setaceum involving volunteers and technicians, and in Menorca (Balearic Islands), more than 25 tons of this species and Carpobrotus edulis have been removed from Natura2000 sites this year. In Berlengas Islands (Portugal), native bird species are nesting after the tackling of invasive species. In Terceira (Azores Islands), the Azorean Biodiversity Group organize every year citizen science activities together with students, volunteers and local organizations to contribute to the Invasoras.pt Citizen Science project.
You can look for CS projects on islands close to you by visiting our webpage:
https://easin.jrc.ec.europa.eu/easin/CitizenScience/Projects
More information about the above examples:
https://www.lagomera.es/cabildo-la-gomera-realiza-nuevas-acciones-control-del-rabo-gato-la-isla/
https://www.gobmenorca.com/voluntariat
http://gba.uac.pt/media/press&events/ver.php?id=690
Picture: Celia López Cañizares / Azorean Biodiversity Group