Impact of introduced invasive herbivores in Patagonian forests

BARRIOS-GARCIA, M. NOELIA; CAROLINA QUINTERO; SASAL, YAMILA; BALLARI, SEBASTIÁN A.; VITALI, AGUSTÍN; RODRIGUEZ CABAL, MARIANO A.

Introduced Invasive Mammals of Argentina

SAREM

Año: 2023; p. 95 - 110

Introduced invasive species are a major driver of local to global environmental change, including important negative impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem processes, econo- mies, health and other social values. At the same time, however, different social actors can hold diverse representations of these species, particularly of introduced invasive mammals (IIMs). Such divergent values and perceptions can lead to conflicts regarding the manage- ment of IIMs, but also invite researchers and managers to be reflexive regarding their own work at a more fundamental level. Therefore, it is key that we advance towards a holistic understanding of IIMs and develop strategies to manage them based on solid technical information and plural perspectives regarding their multiple values. Despite a rich his- tory of initiatives in Argentina to study and manage IIMs, until now there has not been an opportunity to assess the state-of-the-art knowledge in our country. This book seeks to provide rigorous, relevant and legitimate information to support research, policymaking and management decisions regarding IIMs in Argentina. With this objective in mind, the book presents a series of chapters selected to highlight priority topics concerning the con- ceptualization and implementation of IIM research and management. Then, fact sheets are provided for the different IIMs found in Argentina. Finally, beyond the realm of academic inquiry, the timing of this publication is ideal to re-enforce policy and decision-making, such as the recently approved National Invasive Exotic Species Strategy, which seeks to implement actions and enhance institutional capacities related to invasive species manage- ment in Argentina, and the Convention on Biological Diversity's new Global Biodiversity Framework, which also addresses biological invasions as part of broader efforts to attain the 2050 Vision for Living in Harmony with Nature.