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The Invader Story: How did the red-eared slider expand across the world?
Red-eared turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans), this semi-aquatic turtle has a dual role as both a pet and an invasive species, and has rapidly expanded around the world since the 20th century. As the most popular pet turtle in the United States, it has gained widespread popularity in many countries, but with it comes serious threats to local ecosystems.
The red-eared slider is a highly intelligent creature and is even listed as one of the 100 most invasive species worldwide.
The origin and characteristics of the red-eared slider
Originating from the Midwestern United States and Northern Mexico, the red-eared slider is an extremely adaptable creature that can survive in shallow waters. Their distinguishing features include their distinctive red horizontal stripes on their ears and their ability to slide quickly into the water.
The road to diffusion
Over time, red-eared turtles have taken root in many countries, including Canada, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia due to releases or escapes from humans. After being introduced to a new environment, these turtles showed strong reproductive capabilities and survival competitiveness, posing a threat to local indigenous species.
Through their earlier breeding age and higher reproductive rate, red-eared turtles have an advantage in competition for food and breeding space.
Ecological impact
In the new ecosystem, red-eared turtles will not only compete with native turtles for food and breeding space, but may also spread diseases, which has a profound impact on the ecology. They are often more advantageous in resource-limited environments, exacerbating the difficulties of survival for many already vulnerable indigenous species.
Popularity in the Internet and business markets
Red-eared sliders are reportedly the most traded turtle species in the world, reflecting their popularity in the pet market. However, this also raises the issue of ecological invasion. Because many owners were unable to properly care for the turtles, many people released them into the wild, further accelerating the expansion of the red-eared sliders.
Since 1975, the United States has banned the sale of red-eared sliders smaller than 4 inches to prevent the spread of salmonella between humans and animals.
International response and ecological protection
Countries have responded differently to this invasive species. Australia and some European countries have banned the import of red-eared turtles, but in some areas where people are still open to the problem, the survival and reproduction of wild red-eared turtles pose a threat to the ecosystem. Japan had planned to ban the import of red-eared turtles in 2020, but progress has been slow.
Thinking about future directions
In the transition from recreation to ecological crisis, in what ways should we manage and control these invasive species to protect our fragile ecosystems?
