European Commission on Wednesday added 12 species to list of so-called invasive aliens, among them the Egyptian goose and alligator weed.
A statement by the EU noted that invasive alien species were one of the major causes of biodiversity loss, and had significant negative economic impact on healthcare costs, crop yields, fish stocks and infrastructure.
It stated that the Egyptian goose, recognised as an agricultural pest in South Africa, was known to be aggressive toward other birds, drowning other species and taking over nesting sites.
The EU statement indicated that most Egyptian geese reported in Europe were escapees from parks or captivity.
The new list also includes common milkweed, Nuttall’s waterweed, giant rhubarb, giant cow parsnip, Himalayan balsam, Japanese stiltgrass, watermilfoil, the raccoon dog, the muskrat and crimson fountain grass.
Meanwhile, EU member states were required to prevent the listed species from being introduced, kept, sold, transported, reproduced or released.
