The National Academy of Sciences claims the “filthy rich” are living up to their moniker, as population density and per capita income are corresponding closely with the volume of invasive species in Europe – more closely than climate, geography, or physical barriers to species introduction.

… which shouldn’t be that startling, as rich countries have the taste for exotic imports and the means to consume them – and rich people have the ability to globe hop to distant and rarified climes and take nasty with them – or bring nasty back…

High numbers of alien species are supported by
a high human population density and great wealth, reaching the highest values in regions with more than 91.1 inhabitants/km2 and wealth exceeding about US$ 250,000 per capita

Using a similar algorithm and a map of the per capita income for the US, I’d think Maryland is a ticking time bomb of infestation, being the richest state in the Union on a per capita basis.

While you contemplate flight to those last pricey enclaves of pristine, remember you’re statically certain to infect those upon arrival. Do us all a favor, migrate to some pricey loft in the Big City – we’ll allow you the occasional visitation rights once you’ve been thoroughly decontaminated.

Tags: invasive species, the rich done it, National Academy of Sciences