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Paper short abstract

So-called alien species—organisms introduced beyond their ‘natural range’ through human activity—transcend both natural and cultural boundaries. Focusing on Finnish environmental discourse, this paper examines the significance of these boundaries and boundary-crossings.

Paper long abstract

The concept of alien species refers to plants, animals, and other organisms that have been introduced beyond their ‘natural range’ as a result of human activity. While most introduced species do not thrive in their new environments—often disappearing quickly or remaining inconspicuous—some flourish to such an extent that they may suppress other species. These so-called invasive alien species are now considered among the greatest threats to global biodiversity. At times, they are portrayed as monstrous organisms that endanger both the natural order and human control over nature.

Alien species transcend natural and cultural boundaries. As only species that spread with human assistance are classified as ‘alien’, they are defined by a human–nature boundary; and while their official definition refers to the biogeographical boundaries they have crossed, in practice, alien species are often discussed and managed in relation to national borders and framed as a threat to a nation’s natural heritage. Focusing on Finnish environmental discourse, this paper examines the significance of the various boundaries and boundary-crossings related to the concept and narratives of alien species.