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Invasive species in Florida are introduced organisms that cause damage to the environment, human economy, or human health in Florida.[1] Native plants and animals in Florida are threatened by the spread of invasive species.[2] Florida is a major biodiversity hotspot in North America and the hospitable sub-tropical climate has also become a hotspot for invasive plants and animals due to anthropogenic introduction.[3][4]
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The non-governmental organization FISC published the following list of invasive plant species in 2023.[171] Formerly known as Florida Exotic Plant Pest Council (FLEPPC), the council changed its name to Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC) to retire outdated terminology.[172][173]
Three species have been added to Category I since 2019, and Category II now includes four additional species.[174][175][176] The watch list from FISC highlights species of concern which are not yet included in the Category I or II lists.[177]
The FISC list is a recommendation for natural resource managers, environmental education, and volunteer removal, but is not regulatory by law.[173] State regulated plant species are listed in the State of Florida Noxious Weed List, and the State of Florida Prohibited Aquatic Plants List.[178] Many of the non-native plant species documented in Florida are assessed for invasive potential by UF/IFAS.[179]
FISC describes Category I species as plants which displace native species, disrupt ecological functions, or hybridize with native species.[180] Category II species have not yet altered Florida plant communities to the extent shown by Category I species, but may be assigned to Category I if enough negative impact is reported.[180]
*Species added in 2023
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