Invasive species aren't just exotic animals, scary snakes or annoying insects. They can also be bacteria and viruses that kill people. Although it's difficult to say what the most harmful invasive species is, "I'd probably point to West Nile virus," says Christopher Dionigi of the federal National Invasive Species Council (NISC). This year, 36 people have died from the virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Between 1999 and 2010, there were 1,220 fatal cases.
Invasives can also hurt agriculture and hit consumers in the pocketbook
Invasives can also hurt agriculture and hit consumers in the pocketbook
