Invasive Fungi
Invasive fungi are responsible for several serious animal and plant diseases, including Chestnut Blight, Dutch Elm Disease, and Chytrid fungus. Chestnut Blight ravaged Eastern forests in the early 20th century, dramatically altering ecosystems where the American Chestnut once anchored the habitat as a reliable source of food. Chytrid fungus is implicated in contributing to worldwide amphibian declines.

Invasive Viruses and Bacteria
Invasive viruses and bacteria of the region include the Avian Influenza Virus and Exotic Newcastle Disease, pathogens affecting both animal agriculture and wild bird populations. Leaf scorch and Butternut canker are two invasive bacterial species adversely affecting plant health. Because microorganisms spread easily, invasive viruses and bacteria found in other parts of the nation such as Viral hemorrhagic septicemia will likely expand into this region.