Two human introductions to a remote North Pacific island: the invasive species Golden Crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) and plastic marine debris.
Verbesina is an aggressive introduced weed that poses a serious threat to island ecology by reducing habitat for ground nesting birds, as well as enclosing and trapping chicks. It interferes with native species through competition for nutrients and water, shading and allelopathic effects. Staff and volunteers including tourists clear Verbesina away and replant areas on the island with native grasses. Native Bunch Grass is planted to replace Verbesina and prevent reestablishment. See E29H8F or DM29CP or DM29BY or DM29C5 for photographs of Bunch Grass on Midway. The plastic marine debris in the background was collected from Midway's shores to prevent it from harming seabirds or other wildlife. It was shipped off island for proper disposal.
Size: 3570px × 2380px
Location: Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge & Battle of Midway National Memorial, Hawaiian Islands, USA
Photo credit: © Rosanne Tackaberry / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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