Invasive species can wreak havoc on native plants and animals in any environment. Whereas some species learn to coexist, invasive species spell destruction. Discover six invasive species in Maine!
1. European Fire Ant
Scientific name: Myrmica rubra
European fire ants were first introduced in Maine through plant materials that were shipped from Northern Europe. They possess a powerful sting and are orange in color with slightly darker heads. They measure 1/16 to 1/4 of an inch. During the warmer months, they look for cool, humid conditions. They thrive in decaying logs, leaves in the soil, and under rocks.
They are known for not stinging unless their nest is disturbed. Then they come with all their vengeance! Whereas they normally mind their own business, when it’s stinging time, it’s no fun for the person who has to experience the brunt of it. To get rid of them, you must hire pest control as they have no predators. They are simply unsuitable to be anybody’s lunch.
2. Gypsy Moth
Scientific name: Lymantria dispar
Male gypsy moths are about 1.5 inches long. They’re light brown and females are a bit larger, up to two inches. These moths are white with dark markings on their wings. They can make trees and shrubs disappear not due to any supernatural abilities but because they devour them rather quickly. They have a list of preferences: poplar, birch, and willow to name a few. The devastation can hugely impact timber production as well as wildlife. Not only that but they can also destroy recreational areas.
3. Asian Shore Crab
Scientific name: Hemigrapsus sanguineus
These creatures enjoy living on rocky shores. They live where land meets the ocean and have the ability to be in different waters, including brackish environments. They are territorial when it comes to the spaces they call home. When it comes to their mates, they are competitive with other crab species and their own. They are an active bunch and frequently display aggressive behavior.
Asian shore crabs always seem to be ready to use their claws to defend what belongs to them. They have no understanding of hospitality. The male courtship behavior starts in late spring through the summer months. They send chemical signals and participate in physical displays. Then, the female carries the eggs on her abdomen. Once they hatch, they release the larvae which are to become baby crabs!
4. Northern Pike
Scientific name: Esox Lucius
Northern pikes are piscivores, which means they eat other fish. They are also known as water wolves! The unusual thing about them is that they seem as though they have sharp teeth everywhere! Not only do they have a mouthful of teeth, but with the way their jaws are placed, it is almost as if they have teeth inside of their gills! They don’t. But at the time of preparation, you could get yourself hurt if you’re not careful. Even in death, they’re dangerous!
Northern pikes are mainly freshwater fish. They are sharp (pun intended!) and when they catch prey, they make sure there is no escape. They swallow the whole prey at once. There is no saving-for-later mentality for northern pikes! They can be found in lakes, ponds, and rivers where there’s a lot of vegetation. They especially like fallen trees where they can ambush their prey.
5. Green Crab
Scientific name: Carcinus maenas
The green crab’s shell is olive green to brownish green. This invasive species has five legs, and its average size is three to four inches. But they can reach bigger sizes! They have an amazing ability to adapt, and they can live on sandy beaches, rocky shores, and salt marshes (just about anywhere!). Their resilience is what allows them to thrive in different environments. They are known for their aggressive behavior and their capacity to reproduce. They dimmish the population of clams and mussels, which makes them a concern for the industry. Â
6. Spotted Lanternfly
Scientific name: Lycorma delicatula
The spotted lanternfly is not native to Maine. It’s originally from China and in Maine, it poses a major threat to a variety of trees and crops. One of their favorites is tree-of-heaven. They can easily be spread through infested materials. They were first spotted in Pennsylvania and in 2020, lanternfly eggs were found in Maine. There have been no live sightings, but residents are encouraged to report any sightings.
Summary of 6 Invasive Species in Maine
Invasive Species | Type | |
---|---|---|
1 | European fire ant | Insect |
2 | Gypsy moth | Insect |
3 | Asian shore crab | Marine arthropod |
4 | Northern pike | Fish |
5 | Green crab | Marine arthropod |
6 | Spotted lanternfly | Insect |
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Lukas Jonaitis/Shutterstock.com
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