Risk Analysis for Human-Mediated Movement of Pests and Pathogens

Abstract

Humans have always played an important role in dispersing plants, animals, and other organisms—either intentionally or inadvertently. Over the last several decades, rapid developments in infrastructure and transportation have led to dramatic increases in trade, travel, and mass migration; this in turn has accelerated the human-mediated spread of organisms across the globe. In their new environments, introduced species may thrive and cause severe economic and ecological impacts. Mitigating the entry, establishment, and spread of exotic pests and pathogens is crucial for protecting agriculture, ecosystems, and people. To do this, it is important to understand the pathways by which invasive species spread, assess the associated risks, and develop effective mitigation measures. This chapter describes the role of risk analysis for understanding human-mediated pathways of pest introduction and spread and provides case studies from both the plant and animal health arenas.