Reporting
This component of EDRR provides an interface to a suite of tools and resources for reporting invasive species sightings or identification of suspected invasive species. Some tools may overlap with those listed in the Identification and Verification components.
Reporting is necessary to Rapid Response, so please contact us with reports of any invasive species.
How to report an invasive species to T.I.S.I.:
- Download the General Invasives Reporting Form and fill it out
- On the sidebar, click on the link labeled Report an Invasive Species
- Attach General Invasives Reporting Form (also located on sidebar)
- Attach any pictures of the invasive species
If possible when taking pictures, use an object of commonly known size (like a coin) so that we are able to estimate size of the invasive.
Specimens are always welcome. If you wish to collect one to assist with identification, please keep a record with the actual specimen of location collected and the date. It is best to write in pencil, because pen will run in water or alcohol. There are different methods of storing different types of specimens. Always be sure to keep the specimen secure to avoid the spread of the collected species.
Specimen storing specifications:
Vertebrates (fish, etc.) - Seal in a plastic bag and freeze.
Invertebrates (insects, mussels, worms, etc.) - Place tissue in a jar or vial. Store invertebrate in the vial or jar with enough rubbing alcohol inside to keep tissue moist. If tissue dries out, replenish alcohol.
Plants - These specimens should include the stem with leaves intact. If the plant has flowers and/or fruits, please submit those intact also. DO NOT place plants in plastic bags or bottles for risk of decomposition.
- Instead place plant specimens between two sheets of newspaper and apply constant weight to the specimen for an hour. A pressed specimen can never become too dry for a plant taxonomist.
To submit the Invasive Species Report through email, you must save it to your computer under a different file name then what it is already labeled, i.e.: change title then email to TISI@shsu.edu