Biological control of invasive species: Challenges to mitigating global concerns and seizing local opportunities

Biological invasions are a growing problem around the world. Mitigating their impact requires capabilities to prevent their introduction, thwart their spread, and minimize their negative affects locally. Classical biological control (CBC) has a long history as an intervention against alien invasive species. However concerns over non-target effects, including the potential impact of imported natural enemies on biodiversity and ecosystem functions has limited this approach as a pest control option. Are their circumstances where the potential benefits of CBC outweigh the potential risks? In this presentation, we explore whether and where CBC may be an appropriate intervention option, where benefits substantially outweigh risks. We consider several invasive arthropod pests as case studies to evaluate the relative risk of no action or other typical pest management tactics compared to pursuing CBC. Finally, we draw some conclusions about the appropriateness of stemming a biological invasion with an orchestrated introduction of natural enemies.