The Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) has raised concerns about the environmental dangers posed by invasive species. These species can enter China through imported goods and mail. The ministry warned that some people try to avoid customs regulations by mislabeling products or illegally bringing in exotic pets, like snakes and spiders.
With global trade growing, the movement of agricultural products, timber, and other goods makes it easier for invasive species to spread. For instance, the red imported fire ant, which comes from South America, often hides in shipments of timber or plants. Once it settles in a new area, it can reproduce quickly, disrupting local ecosystems.
There have been cases of individuals falsely labeling their shipments. Recently, customs officers found 979 live Messor barbarus ants hidden in a package that was declared as an “electric kettle.” This ant species can easily adapt and reproduce, which makes it dangerous for local environments.
Many times, people unknowingly help these species get across borders. A good example is the Canadian goldenrod, introduced as a decorative plant. Its ability to spread rapidly can disrupt local ecosystems and reduce biodiversity.
There’s also a growing trend among young people to keep “exotic pets.” These pets include unusual animals like colorful insects, reptiles, amphibians, and rodents. Just in early 2024, customs intercepted more than 200 cases of exotic pets, such as the Galápagos centipede and the shiny burrow scorpion.
The MSS emphasizes that these invasive species can threaten ecological balance and economic stability. They can harm agriculture, deplete forestry and fishery resources, and increase the costs of biological management. It’s estimated that invasive species could cause losses of up to 200 billion yuan (about $27.3 billion) annually in China, with agriculture bearing the brunt of the impact.
To protect the environment, the ministry advises Chinese citizens to follow laws regarding the importation of foreign species and to avoid releasing or keeping exotic pets. Being mindful of these risks can help preserve local ecosystems and biodiversity.
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