The importance of the database

Currently invasive species records are not centrally maintained.

In response to this, the National Biodiversity Data Centre has established a National Invasive Species Database that will provide centralised up-to-date information on the distribution of invasive species in Ireland. This database will play a key role in recording, monitoring and surveillance programs.

How does it work?

The National Invasive Species Database project (Ireland) collates distribution data via the National Biodiversity Data Centre for invasive alien species listed and ranked through a risk assessment process. The species distribution data comes from a variety of sources and goes through a validation process. All validated records (sightings) in the database are made publicly available on interactive maps through the IAS portal.

The distribution data and additional information collated by the Data Centre is compiled in the IAS portal and provided to global and regional information systems. Vitally, this centralized hub of data exchange provides a mechanism for an Early Warning System which has been deployed nine times since 2008. Additional information is also provided to Local Authorities, researchers, state bodies and  awareness, training and recording schemes are ongoing and integral to the data flow process.

For every additional record that is submitted, a clearer picture of the status of that invasive species in Ireland is generated. Display of such data against the backdrop of additional GIS layers will greatly enhance the information available to those involved in combating the threat of invasive species in Ireland.

Click  image below to download an information sheet on the National Invasive Species Database