Invasive Species Profiles

Introduction

The following descriptions represent a diverse range of invasive organisms. The species included in this list meet one or more of the following criteria:

• are known to have significant economic impacts on agricultural ecosystems, public infrastructure or natural resources, including impact on recreational activities, or
• are widely recognized by biologists and resource managers to degrade natural ecosystems, or negatively affect native species, or have, or can have, deleterious effects on human health.

Early Detection Plant Species

Report discovery of these species immediately! > >

In this section are examples of invasive species not yet established in Virginia. Prevention is the key strategy for managing these species, sometimes referred to as "early detection" species. If found before becoming established in Virginia, the goal is to target them for rapid response. With sufficient resources, eradication may be possible for early arrivals.

Two-horned Trapa

Alligatorweed

 Giant Salvinia

Waterwheel Plant

 Water Hyacinth

 Primrose Willow

 Water Spinach

 Beach Vitex

 Cogon Grass

 Giant Hogweed

 Tropical Soda Apple 

Early Detection Animal Species

Report discovery of these species immediately! > >

Spotted Lanternfly

 Zebra Mussel

Sirex Wood Wasp

Rusty Crayfish

Chinese Mitten Crab

Early Detection Fungal Species

 Sudden Oak Death / Ramorum Blight

Recently Established Species

These species have recently become established in Virginia. Management efforts are aimed at slowing the spread.

 Wavyleaf Grass

Emerald Ash Borer

Northern Snakehead Fish

Priority Species for Management

The species in this section are are established in Virginia. Ongoing monitoring, control, and management are the key strategies.

Callery Pear

Tree-of-heaven

 Feral Swine

Japanese Stilt Grass

Rapa Whelk

Imported Fire Ant

Phragmites