The aim of this course is to provide students with a basic understanding of invasive species and biological invasion processes, and to enable them to evaluate the effects of invasive species on ecosystems and agricultural production systems. The course aims to help students understand the introduction and spread pathways of invasive species, their ecological and economic impacts, their consequences for biodiversity, and possible control and management approaches. In addition, the course aims to improve students’ ability to investigate a selected invasive species using scientific sources and present the information effectively.

Basic concepts such as invasive species, alien species, native species, biological invasion, vectors, introduction, establishment, and spread; causes of biological invasions; dispersal pathways including human activities, trade, transportation, ballast water, pet trade, and ornamental plant trade; ecosystem-based and species-based invasion mechanisms; enemy release hypothesis, niche opportunity, competition, predation, hybridization, allelopathy, and phenotypic plasticity; impacts of invasive species on biodiversity, habitat structure, ecosystem functioning, agricultural production, aquatic systems, human health, and the economy; examples of invasive plant, animal, and aquatic species; case studies; monitoring and control of invasive species, biological control, chemical control, quarantine, early detection and rapid response approaches; student research and oral presentations on selected invasive species.