Invasive terrestrial invertebrates in Victoria.

A high number of exotic invertebrate species has been accidentally or deliberately introduced into Victoria since European settlement. The effects of these introductions on native flora and fauna have ranged from benign through to devastating, depending upon the species in question and on the context of their introduction. Exotic species are generally easier to identify, and in the case of potential future invasive species identified through such processes as pest risk analysis combined with vigilant quarantine inspection processes, it is possible to anticipate and identify potential paths of entry to prevent incursions in the first instance. However, subsequently dealing with exotic pests that have successfully established and native invertebrate species that have become pests is a more complex scenario. This paper discusses some of the significant exotic invertebrates to have established in Victoria and their impacts on the environment, either beneficial, benign or adverse. Impacts of exotic invertebrates on amenity plantings and forests are examined, as well as issues covering invasive native invertebrates establishing outside of either their normal host or geographic range. Broad actions to prevent or limit the spread of exotic and native invasive invertebrates are also discussed.