Biological invasions get less prime-time coverage than natural disasters, but may be more economically damaging and warrant corresponding investments in preparedness and response planning.

We are making dangerous discoveries in space. In April, astronomers found, on our cosmic doorstep, a planet dubbed Gliese 581c. Nestling close to a dim red star, it's a rocky world only a little larger than Earth. Like Earth, it could support liquid water.

Alien invaders were quite the topic yesterday at a forum on biosafety in Beijing. However, as opposed to the kind from outer space, the invaders discussed were non-indigenous plants and animals that experts say are hurting China's economy.

Aliens are invading prime-time network TV this fall. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, viewers can watch three new hourlong shows that tackle the extraterrestrial trend. NBC kicks off the craze with "Surface," a show about otherworldly fish, at 7 p.m. on Mondays.

SCOTLAND'S countryside is getting extra protection from alien invaders which destroy native wildlife. Thirteen new species of plant have been banned under the Wildlife and Countryside Act - making it illegal to spread them.