Invasive species can disrupt ecosystems by outcompeting these types of organisms
Native Species
The only way a human can find invasives
Sight
Invasives all over our school campus
Peacocks
Term for species introduced to areas outside their natural range, often causing harm
Invasive Species
Invasive species often reduce this measure of variety in ecosystems, crucial for maintaining resilience
Biodiversity
What aspect of the environment can invasive species alter by changing habitats or nutrient cycles
Ecosystem Structure
Animal that uses smell that humans use to find invasives
Dog
Glowing bug that feeds on farmers plants and ruins the farmers plants
Spotted lanternfly in Pennsylvania
When exotic pet owners releasing their animals into the wild
Pet Release
By overgrowing native plants, invasive plants often disrupt the availability of these two resources for other species.
Light and Nutrients
Invasive species often cause financial harm by damaging this economic sectors
Agriculture/forests
What is one simple action hikers can take to prevent spreading invasive plant seeds
Cleaning their boots
Invaded New York and left holes in trees
Asian longhorn beetles
Invasives that have nothing to stop them from growing
Biological Controls
Invasive species like pythons can severely impact this part of the food chain by preying on native animals
Predator-Prey Relationships
Invasive species can harm human activities by doing this to crops
Reducing Yields/Damaging Plants
What chemical method is sometimes used to control invasive species populations
Pesticides
This plant was introduced for erosion control and is now a major invasive in the southeastern U.S.
Kudzu
Example: Thousands of pythons took over the Everglades
Exotic Pet Trade
This term describes how invasive species can alter the composition of soil, making it harder for native plants to grow
Soil Chemistry/Nutrient Cycling
When dead trees infested with invasive beetles are transported, what happens
The beetles spread to new areas
What can individuals avoid transporting to prevent spreading invasive insects like the Asian Longhorn Beetle
Firewood
This invasive plant requires special removal techniques such as using trained dogs and is yellow.
Scotch Broom
What is the term for a non-native species that does not harm the ecosystem
Introduced Species
In aquatic environments, invasive species can reduce oxygen levels, leading to this harmful phenomenon
Dead Zones