CIMPAL: Mapping the impact of alien species

What is it about?

CIMPAL index offers a means to estimate and map the cumulative impacts of invasive alien species on habitats. Although CIMPAL was developed for marine ecosystems, it is applicable on terrestrial ecosystems as well. The application of this framework in the Mediterranean Sea provided a baseline and allowed the identification of the most invasive species, and of hotspots of highly impacted areas.

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Why is it important?

Alien species may become invasive and cause the decline of native biodiversity, modify habitats, change community structure, affect foodweb properties and ecosystem processes, impede the provision of ecosystem services, impact human health, and cause substantial economic losses. CIMPAL index allows the identification of hotspots of highly impacted areas, and prioritization of sites, pathways and species for management actions. It is a tool for managers that helps to direct the investment of the limited available funds and effort for mitigation measures.

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