Non-native Species Surrounding Protected Areas Influence the Community of Non-native Species Within Them

Protected areas (PAs) are a key element of global conservation strategies aiming to protect habitats and species from various threats such as non-natives (NNS) with negative ecological impacts. Yet little is known about the mechanisms by which PAs colonized NNS, more specifically role colonizing events surrounding areas. Here, we compared terrestrial freshwater non-native plants animals recorded in Norwegian 5-km belts around them, using database Biodiversity Information Centre Species Map Service. Our analysis included 1,602 NNS 671 PAs. We found that were only 23% PAs, despite fact 90% at least one NNS. A Zero-inflated binomial regression model showed number was strong explanatory variable richness inside Other significant variables surface area PA, mean human population density main type habitat accessibility also observed similarity with, on average, two thirds present specific PA its belt. Furthermore, average 4.5 years after being 0–5 km belts, suggesting dynamic rapid colonization Invasive represented 12% but 40% This difference related higher abundance invasive belts. results highlight necessity expanding focus management beyond their boundaries, particular prevent incursions high impact.