![]() Habitat and dietary overlap is often substantial among native and introduced ungulates, including deer, and exploitation competition is likely. Apparent competition, with introduced prey resulting in increased predation rates on native deer, may be occurring between South American huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) and southern pudu (Pudu puda). Frequent concern is expressed that introduced deer species may have detrimental effects on native deer and other ungulates, although potential epidemiological effects have not been investigated. ![]() Introduced Chinese muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi) within a coniferous forestry landscape in eastern England differ from native European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in their distribution of herbivory among differing habitats, and provide much lower rates of endozoochorous seed dispersal. In Patagonia, introduced deer have disrupted forest composition, whereas in Europe, ecosystem impacts of introduced species can differ from those of overabundant native deer. ![]() Even where ecosystems contain native deer, invasion by taxonomically exotic deer species carries the risk of cascade effects on spatial plant dynamics and forest composition. In New Zealand, where large herbivores were previously absent, severe and novel impacts have been found in susceptible forests. We review the direct and indirect impacts on ecosystems and evidence for interspecific effects on native deer. Despite localised or regional concern, the scale and generality of detrimental impacts have not been widely recognised. Their economic value leads to further accidental and deliberate releases and lack of control is contributing to range expansion in Australia, South America and Europe. Numerous deer species have been introduced beyond their native range into ecosystems around the world.
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