'Warm' species invading Antarctic (BBC)

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By Paul Rincon
Science reporter, BBC News

Scientists are calling for action to prevent foreign species from taking hold in Antarctica and wrecking the continent's unique ecosystems.

Despite Antarctica's inhospitable environment, non-native species introduced by tourists, scientists and explorers are gaining a foothold.

Species can hitch a ride on ships and planes carrying visitors and supplies.
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"Antarctica has long been considered as an isolated continent with a harsh environment. So the general perception has been that we don't need to worry about non-native species. We know better now," Dr Gilbert, environmental manager at Antarctica New Zealand, told BBC News.
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According to Dr Gilbert, two principal factors are facilitating colonisation of Antarctic habitats by foreign species: the increased numbers of people travelling to the continent and climate change.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/5101790.stm