US researchers are calling for caution, as they believe there is the possibility of some biofuel crops becoming an invasive species.
[ Arkansas ] As the United States are looking to crops as a possible future energy source, University of Arkansas scientists have put forth their argument for further ecological study into biofuel crops. Lead researcher Robert Wiedenmann, professor of entomology, said: “Most of the traits that are touted as great for biofuel crops – no known pests or diseases, rapid growth, high water-use efficiency – are red flags for invasion biologists. The team made the call in their article Policy Forum, published in the 22 September issue of the journal Science. The authors of the Policy Forum article in Science call for an examination of potential invasiveness as crops are examined for their biofuel potential and before putting such crops into large-scale production.

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