What is an invasive species and how can it impact an ecosystem? (2 points)
An invasive species is a non-native organism that is introduced into a new ecosystem and has the potential to harm the native plants, animals, and habitats.
1. Competition: Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat. They often have aggressive growth rates or unique adaptations that give them an advantage, leading to a decrease in native species populations.
2. Disruption of ecosystem balance: Invasive species can disrupt the natural balance of an ecosystem by altering food webs or nutrient cycles. For example, if an invasive predator is introduced, it may eliminate or reduce populations of native prey species, leading to imbalances in the ecosystem. This can result in cascading effects throughout the food chain and negatively impact other species.