What is the difference between native, cryptogenic, and introduced species?
For some species, it can be difficult to identify their origin and determine whether they are native or introduced. Species whose origins cannot be verified are called cryptogenic. Thus, species known to have been in New England and not identified in other locations before are known as native species while species known to be native in other parts of the world are introduced species. There are as many cryptogenic species in New England as introduced species. Shipping routes between Europe and the East Coast provided early settlers with food and goods. Vessels carried solid ballast (rocks, gravel and shale) that were home to many organisms. Unfortunately, data from this time are rare or nonexistent, and we can only guess the origins of some species. The results obtained during the Rapid Assessment Surveys should be disseminated to generate public awareness.
