A synthesis of biological invasion hypotheses associated with the introduction–naturalisation–invasion continuum

With the advent of Anthropocene, biological invasions have reached an unprecedented level, and number species introductions is still increasing in ever-changing world. Despite major advances invasion science, significant debate lack clarity remain surrounding determinants success introduced species, magnitude dimensions their impact, mechanisms sustaining successful invasions. Empirical studies show divergent impacts alien populations on ecosystems contrasting effects biotic abiotic factors dynamics populations, which hinders creation a unified theory Compounding these issues plethora hypotheses that aim to explain success, can be unclear contradictory. We propose synthesis categorizes along timeline invasion. sorted timeline, considered population, community ecosystem levels. This temporal sorting concepts shows each relevant at specific stage Although empirical findings may appear contradictory, when mapped onto they combined complementary way. An overall scheme proposed summarise theoretical subjected For any given case study, this framework provides guide through maze theories should help choose appropriate according