biological invasions

Question 1

what is a non-native species?

Answer 1

a species introduced to a region outside of its natural historical range

Question 2

what is biological invasion?

Answer 2

the spread and establishment of a species into a region beyond its natural range

Question 3

what is the process of biological invasion?

Answer 3

1. introduction
2. establishment (forming of a self-sustaining population)
3. geographic spread (natural or human-assisted dispersal)

Question 4

what is an invasive species?

Answer 4

an introduced species that spreads rapidly that causes adverse ecological or economic effects

Question 5

how are modern biological invasions occurring?

Answer 5

accidentally:
- hitchhikers (ballast water)
- escapees
deliberate introductions:
- biological control (mongoose)
- live trade (food, ornamental, pet release)

Question 6

what are the traits of the worst invaders?

Answer 6

• not being a picky eater
• having high tolerance for different environments
• phenotypic plasticity

Question 7

what places are most vulnerable to invasion?

Answer 7

islands and lakes because they are more isolated from other species, they have not seen as many things as other places
-> also easier to eradicate invasive species