The Geosystems Research Institute is currently researching a number of species considered to be invasive or noxious. The majority of these species are plants (aquatic and terrestrial), however there are a few animal and insect species being researched.

Our approach is multidisciplinary, and involves biologists, ecologists, computer scientists, economists, engineers, and others acting collectively as a research team. All research projects include education, extension and outreach components to rapidly transmit new technologies or approaches to those in private and public sectors managing invasive species.

A very destructive exotic species is wreaking havoc in the SouthEast on entire plants and stands of cacti. The cactus moth, native to Argentina and accidentally introduced into Florida, is expected to have a catastrophic effect if it reaches the western states. Learn more about the cactus moth and its host, the pricklypear cactus, by visiting our fact sheets; or visit the National Cactus Moth Detection and Monitoring Network website.

With the ever-growing problem of invasive species, the need for state and regional coordination of management efforts equally grows. An important component to that coordination is an accessible and up-to-date database of invasive species locations, operated and managed at the regional level. GRI is actively mapping the locations of invasive aquatic and terrestrial plant species in the MidSouth, and entering them into our web-based database for invasive plant species. The Invasive Plant Atlas of the MidSouth is in collaboration with national USGS and other agency databases and structures, and the Invasive Plant Atlas of New England (IPANE), with mechanisms and procedures in place to ensure data transmission both upward (nationally) and downward to the local level for rapid assessment and response.

In addition to many species being researched at the GRI, we provide educational information on Aquatic Plant Management and Early Detection and Rapid Response. Early Detection and Rapid Response efforts are also exemplified by GRI's response to a recent investation of waterlettuce. For the species being researched, information is provided for the education of the public on identification, reporting, control, and management of these species. Fact sheets are also provided for download that is representative of the information provided here.

Aquatic Plants Alligatorweed Curlyleaf pondweed Eurasian watermilfoil Giant salvinia Hydrilla Parrotfeather Purple loosestrife Roundleaf toothcup Waterhyacinth Water primrose

Terrestrial Plants Beach vitex Benghal dayflower Chinese tallowtree Cogongrass Itchgrass Kudzu Multiflora rose Pricklypear cactus Tropical soda apple

Fish Grass carp

Insects Cactus moth

Student Participation
Graduate and summer student opportunities are available. Students interested in educational opportunities are incouraged to view the Invasive Species Program Poster to see where they can be a part of this ground-breaking research.

Research Projects
An Experimental Demonstration to Determine Best Management Practices for Invasive Plants

Aquatic Plant Management Support for the Pearl River Valley Water Supply District

Invasive Plant Atlas for the MidSouth

Modeling Spread of Invasive Weedy Species Following Natural Disasters

Propagation and Evaluation of Habitat Enhancement Projects for Little Bear Creek Lake, AL

Research to Support Integrated Management Systems of Aquatic and Terrestrial Invasive Species

The Seasonal Phenology, Ecology, and Management of Parrotfeather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

Water Milfoil Survey and Mapping Project-Noxon Rapids and Cabinet Gorge Reservoirs

Geosystems Research Institute, an HPC2 Affiliate  •  Director: David R. Shaw, Ph.D. Modified: March 17, 2009  •  WebMaster  •  Directory  •  Publications  •  Intranet