accidental introduction

An accidental introduction occurs when an organism, such as a plant, animal, or insect, is unintentionally transported to a new area by human activities like shipping, travel, or trade. These species are not native to the area and may establish themselves without deliberate effort. This process can happen quietly and unexpectedly, often due to the global movement of goods. Such introductions can sometimes threaten local ecosystems by competing with native species, spreading diseases, or causing ecological imbalance, making the understanding and management of accidental introductions important for conservation efforts.