Which of the following refers to a species that does NOT occur naturally in a region or ecosystem?
A.
native
B.
primary
C.
nonnative
D.
secondary
C. nonnative
The correct answer is C. nonnative.
The correct answer is C. nonnative.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the definitions of each term:
A. Native - This term refers to a species that occurs naturally in a specific region or ecosystem without any introduction by humans.
B. Primary - This term does not specifically refer to a species; rather, it refers to the first stage in a succession of ecological changes in a given area. It usually refers to the initial establishment of a plant community on bare ground, such as after a volcanic eruption.
C. Nonnative - This term refers to a species that has been introduced to a region or ecosystem artificially, either intentionally or accidentally, by human activities. Nonnative species can have a negative impact on native species and ecosystems.
D. Secondary - This term also does not specifically refer to a species, but rather describes a stage in ecological succession following a disturbance. It refers to the development of a community after a primary succession has occurred, usually in an area where soil is already present.
Based on these explanations, the correct answer is C. nonnative, as it specifically refers to a species that is not naturally occurring in a region or ecosystem and has been introduced by human activities.