Scotland, known for its stunning wildlife, faces a new threat over the next decade: an influx of 'alien' species. Researchers from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) and NatureScot have identified 171 problem species, including raccoons, muntjac deer, and invasive mussels. These invasive species pose a significant threat, costing Scotland at least £499 million annually, affecting the environment, economy, and health.
Scotland already hosts over 1,000 invasive species like grey squirrels, Japanese knotweed, and minks. A new study aimed to predict the next 'alien' invaders. Among 171 potential arrivals, researchers prioritized 10 species: pheasant's-tail, Asian clam, Zebra mussel, Quagga mussel, Australian flatworm, Southampton flatworm, Brown Kontikia flatworm, Obama flatworm, Floating pennywort, Reeve's muntjac, Parrot's feather, raccoon, Highbush blueberry, and the Crepidula fornicata mollusc (note that flatworms are grouped together, as are the two mussel species).