Sleeper species are non-native species already present in an ecosystem that have potential to be invasive, but are limited by factors such as climate or other species.
Sirex woodwasp, for example, was introduced to Canada in 2005 and has since been limited to parts of Ontario and Quebec. Climate change could create favourable conditions for the spread of this species, leading to negative impacts on Canada’s important pine plantations. Identifying sleeper species and preventing their spread will protect vulnerable ecosystems and maximize resources.
Graphic adapted from Bradley et al., 2018.