Invasive Species

A park biologist uses an Argentine black and white tegu, captured within the park, to educate students about the impact invasive species have on native ecosystems.

NPS Photo by Brandon Cintron Gerena

Invasive Species

Learn how non-native plants and animals affect Everglades National Park and what you can do to help protect native ecosystems.

Invasive species pose a serious threat to South Florida’s native ecosystems. In the Everglades, invasive fish prey on native species, while invasive plants like melaleuca outcompete and overshadow native vegetation. Far from their original habitats, these invaders often thrive in disturbed areas, where they have a competitive edge. Without natural predators to keep them in check, invasive species spread rapidly—consuming sunlight, water, and nutrients that native plants and animals need to survive. The result is intense competition that weakens the health and diversity of the Everglades ecosystem.

In addition to causing environmental damage, invasive species also have significant economic impacts—especially in Florida, where the warm climate and diverse landscape make it easier for them to take hold. While some of these invasive species may be here to stay, we can slow their spread by preventing the release of non-native plants and animals into the wild and actively managing those already invading natural areas.

To address the issue of invasive plant and animal species, the South Florida Natural Resources Center of Everglades National Park created the following resource management programs and uses them for guidance:

 

Why it matters in the Everglades

Invasive species can have serious and lasting impacts on the park’s natural and cultural resources.

Compete with native plants and animals

They can outcompete native species for food, space, and resources.

Alter habitats

They can change natural communities and ecosystem processes.

Reduce biodiversity

They can displace native species and reduce the diversity of life in the Everglades.

Impact restoration

They can hinder restoration efforts and the recovery of native ecosystems.

Costly to manage

They can be expensive and difficult to control once established.

 

Explore invasive species in the park

Learn about some of the non-native plants and animals that threaten the Everglades.

Invasive Plants

Non-native plants can form dense infestations, displace native vegetation, and alter ecosystems.

Learn more ›

Burmese Python

These large constrictors prey on native wildlife and can disrupt the natural balance of the Everglades ecosystem.

Learn more ›

Lionfish

This invasive marine fish competes with native species and can impact the health of coral reef communities.

Learn more ›

Invasive Insects

Non-native insects can damage native plants, spread disease, and impact ecosystems.

Learn more ›

 

How the park manages invasive species

Everglades National Park works year-round to prevent, detect, and control invasive species through science, monitoring, partnerships, and targeted management programs.

Invasive Plants Program

Managing invasive plants protects native habitats, supports restoration, and helps maintain the ecological integrity of the Everglades.

Learn more about invasive plants ›

Invasive Animal Program

Managing invasive animals helps protect native wildlife populations and supports the long-term health of the Everglades.

Learn more about invasive animals ›

 

How you can help

You can play a role in protecting Everglades National Park from invasive species.

✓ Do not release
Never release pets, aquarium species, or plants into the wild.

✓ Clean your gear
Clean boats, trailers, and equipment before entering and leaving the park.

✓ Learn and share
Learn to identify invasive species and share information with others.

✓ Report sightings
Report invasive species sightings when appropriate.

✓ Support the mission
Your support helps the park continue vital prevention and management work.

Working together for a healthy Everglades

Everglades National Park partners with many organizations to combat invasive species across South Florida.

Visit Everglades CISMA’s “How You Can Help” page ›