Invasive insect species in the Czech Republic

Abstract

The introduction of non-native species by human influence can be dated to the times of the origin and spread of the first civilizations.

A significant increase in biological invasions has been observed in the last five decades, with an enormous increase since the turn of the 2nd and 3rd millennia. In the period between 2000-2020, there were 68 new invasive insect species in the Czech Republic, from the orders equidae, bugs, aphids, crosses, beetles, butterflies, two-winged and bee-eaters.This number corresponding to the number of invasive species for the entire 20th century. Supported mainly by the expansion of passenger and freight transport. Species are introduced from the area where they are native through human activity.The occurrence of new or previously unregistered species is observable in most parts of the Earth. At the new habitat, the species become invasive or naturalized.

The registration of a new non-native/invasive species usually takes place when it reaches a significant population density or causes damage. Biological invasions have a global
impact on ecological, economic and social systems. They are a major reason for the decline of biodiversity, disrupt ecosystem processes and reduce the abundance of native species. The fact remains that evolution is an important parameter in the context of biological invasions and is fast enough to support the invasion. Habitats are becoming more prone to species invasion as the amount of unused resources increases.

Insect species from warmer areas are usually harmful to greenhouse and houseplants, as well as pests in homes and warehouses. Species that can reproduce in the new environment and outdoors are often harmful to ornamental plants, crops and forests.

Invasive species are the most represented in the Czech Republic by phytophagous species, typically Halyomorpha halys, Cydalima perspectalis, several species of Rhagoletis. The ratio of zoophages and omnivores is significantly lower compared to phytophagous. At different stages of life and according to living conditions, zoophages and omnivores are Harmonia axyridis and the Vespa velutina.

Keywords

invasive species, insect, pests, Cydalima pespectalis, Vespa velutina

Fulltext

Invazní druhy hmyzu na území ČR