Sniffing Out the Big One
Date of Award
2005
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
First Advisor
Lowman, Margaret
Keywords
Nile Monitors, Invasive Species, Conservation, Ecology
Area of Concentration
Environmental Studies
Abstract
Invasion biology is a relatively new field of study, yet the importance of understanding the causes and processes of the invasion of exotic species is evident. Global travel and international trade assist the dispersal of species around the globe while humans do not entirely understand the consequences of these actions. Exotic species become established in foreign environments and detrimental impacts to native systems have occurred, but they are too recent to reveal the complete nature of this process in an evolving world. It is obvious, however, that introductions of exotic species are unpredictable and can have severe consequences. Learning how to predict which species are most harmful will be an important advancement for invasion biology, but until predictions are reliable, it is necessary to respond to invading species rapidly and effectively. The Nile monitor, Varanus niloticus (L.) has recently become established in Cape Coral, Florida. This species is expected to spread quickly and have a detrimental impact on native wildlife. Several wildlife refuges near Cape Coral are at risk of invasion within the next year, and several threatened species may be caused to become extinct locally by the introduction of monitors to the preserves. Detection dog programs have been created to facilitate management of exotic species, and have proven to be successful and cost-effective. This thesis investigates the notion of creating a Nile monitor detection program to aid in the research and subsequent eradication of V. niloticus from Southwest Florida. A Nile monitor detection program would be the first of its kind in the United States and a significant advancement for conservation and environmental management.
Recommended Citation
Roux, Amber, "Sniffing Out the Big One" (2005). Theses & ETDs. 3573.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3573
Rights
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