6 dangerous alien creatures in Vietnam

(Baonghean.vn) - The spread of alien species is now recognized as one of the biggest threats to the world's ecology and economy in general and in Vietnam in particular, directly and indirectly affecting human health and ecosystems. In particular, it becomes more serious due to climate change and physical and chemical disturbances to species and ecosystems.

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1. Mimosa tree

Mimosa pudica, also known as mimosa pudica, is currently the most harmful alien species in Vietnam. Mimosa pudica originates from tropical America and was introduced to Asia in the late 19th century. It spread and was first recorded in the Mekong Delta in 1979, in Moc Hoa district, Long An province, and has appeared throughout the country. This species has become a serious pest in wetlands in the Truong Son range, such as Cat Tien and Yok Don National Parks, Bien Lac, lakes in Quang Tri, Dak Rong River, and lakes in Lam Dong.

2. Golden apple snail

Golden apple snails, originating from South America, live in swamps. Golden apple snails were introduced to our country before 1975. This snail species, identified as the intermediate host that transmits lung flukes from rats to humans, has invaded Vietnamese rice fields. With suitable ecological conditions, they develop rapidly, becoming pests on many types of crops, especially rice and water spinach in almost every region of the country.

3. Snail

Snails, originating from the African continent, became an alien land snail species that invaded Vietnam in the 1960s. Up to now, they have become pests of upland crops from the plains to the mountains.

4. Water hyacinth

Water hyacinth (Japanese duckweed or water fern) was introduced to Vietnam from Japan in 1902. Under favorable conditions, this species grows very quickly and covers the water surface. When it rots, it reduces the dissolved oxygen in the water, leading to the death of fish and other aquatic species. This duckweed not only hinders waterway traffic but also slows down the flow, reduces the ability to generate electricity, irrigation capacity and increases the cost of maintaining water reservoirs.

5. Guava tree

The guava tree (five-color tree) was introduced to our country in the early 20th century for ornamental purposes and is now widely present throughout the country. This tree is growing strongly in Quang Binh, Quang Tri, the Central Highlands... with the ability to eliminate some native trees and become a dangerous weed to crops.

6. Caterpillar

Pine caterpillars belong to the butterfly family and are naturally distributed in the southern provinces of China. Pine caterpillars entered Vietnam in the 1950s. In the years 1965-1970, pine caterpillars caused major epidemics in pine forests in Quang Ninh and Bac Giang and have since become serious pests. The work of controlling pine caterpillars in Vietnam is currently facing many difficulties.

Kim Ngoc

(Synthetic)