The problem of invasive species is of interest to researchers in a variety of different fields, including biology, epidemiology, agriculture, public health and even human sciences. It is an issue that affects all regions of the world to a greater or lesser extent. It can also have detrimental effects on animal health and biodiversity. For example, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (lUCN) reported that 625 (51%) of known endangered species are threatened because of invasive (alien) species.