JiangX_[MS]_Chen.pdf

Invasive species wreak havoc on global ecosystems, with negative ecological and economic consequences. Human activities, primarily stemming from globalization, trade, and increased travel, have played a significant role in accelerating species invasions. To manage and possibly mitigate these challenges, humans can harness data analysis to predict and control species invasions. Addressing this issue requires an understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of invasions. This research developed an innovative visualization tool designed to illustrate complex spatiotemporal data pertaining to species invasion routes. By analyzing pest invasion records spanning from 1905 to 2020, the tool presents the invasion trajectories of four non-native species in the eastern United States. Implementing spatial tools such as road networks and terrain, the visualization clarifies the spatiotemporal progression of these invasions, allowing users to intuitively determine invasion epicenters, and identify propagation pathways. Additional features enable the examination of correlations between highway systems, terrain, and invasion dynamics. Following a comprehensive training and exploration phase with domain experts, the efficacy of the tool was proven. The findings underline the proposed solution’s potential to enhance users’ comprehension of invasion dynamics, highlight intrusion centers, and indicate the influence of external factors on species expansion. This study not only validates the visualization tool’s capability but also serves as a foundation for future spatiotemporal research endeavors.