Invasive Species

The mussels have been found in popular moss balls, used in aquariums and as decoration, in 21 states so far. If you have one, officials say boil it or freeze it before disposing it in a trash container.

After collecting comments from reptile breeders and environmental activists at multiple workshops and focus groups, Florida wildlife officials are expected to revise the rules around the possession and commercial sale of highly invasive nonnative species, like tegu lizards and green iguanas.

In 2018, legislators approved a law that set up a program to target invasive species including pythons, tegu lizards and lionfish.

Reptile breeders, exhibitors and shop owners said the proposals threaten the nature of their business, including public education about species. A vote is expected in December.

The FWC approved draft rules in July that would change the listing for “conditional” species, like Burmese pythons and Nile monitor lizards, to "prohibited."

Florida is getting closer to imposing stiffer fines for bear poaching and expanding rules against shark “finning.”The Senate Rules Committee on Monday…

A 10-day competition to remove invasive Burmese pythons from public lands in South Florida begins Friday, Jan. 10. Florida Fish and Wildlife officials…

This week on Florida Matters, we share some of our favorite discussions about plants, animals and environmental challenges facing our state.We look back…

This week on Florida Matters, we share some of our favorite discussions about plants, animals and environmental challenges facing our state.We look back…

Florida scientists launched an experiment Thursday morning using a small bug they believe will be a game-changer in controlling Brazilian peppertrees…

Across South Florida, 2019 is shaping up to be the year of the big lizard. At their yearly gathering to talk about invasive species this week, more than...

Florida has an iguana problem. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has declared an open season on the lizards, which it says are an...