Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally, and a high or medium climate match to the contiguous United States.
Water spangles (Salvinia minima) is an aquatic freshwater plant native to South America. The species has spread via the aquatic plant industry to the United States, and is now established in several states. The history of invasiveness is high. S. minima can outcompete native plants, reduce plant biodiversity, clog waterways, and reduce access for recreational activities. Climate matching indicated the contiguous United States has a high climate match. There are already established S. minima populations in much of the southern United States but not everywhere the climate match indicated there was suitable climate. The certainty of assessment is high. The overall risk assessment category is high.
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High Risk
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