A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF LITERATURE ON INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES IN MEXICO

Abstract

Invasive alien species (IAS) have been favored by rampant deforestation and degradation of natural habitats. The wide spreading of IAS worldwide has raised international concerns given their negative impact on ecosystems, native species displacement and local population extirpations resulting in loss of biodiversity. IAS have also become a social and economic problem for local and regional public sectors. Therefore, it is urgent to establish policies to help mitigate their negative impact. Here we conducted a systematic review of research on IAS to build a database platform and analyze their current knowledge in Mexico. We compiled the information available from widespread scientific internet search tools over the last 55 years into a database, using keywords related to IAS. It was found that the predominant type of reports were articles on faunistic groups published in peer-reviewed journals. The remaining reports were related to economic costs, social perception, and the legal framework. This is a first step to identify immediate actions, and establish research priorities and management programs nationwide.