Invasive species

Question 1

Define an invasive species

Answer 1

An invasive species is one that is non-native to a particular area and pose a threat to biodiversity or otherwise causing harm to native species.

Question 2

What allows a species to be invasive?

Answer 2

Invasive species are often introduced either deliberately or accidentally to novel areas by human movement. Traits such as having a high reproductive rate, being generalists in habitat / diet requirements, having few natural predators / parasites / competitors in the novel area and being long-lived may make a species likely to be invasive.

Question 3

What makes a habitat susceptible to invasive species?

Answer 3

Habitats that are disturbed or early in succession are vulnerable to invasion due to having empty niches and minimal competition. Remote islands are susceptible due to often having low taxonomic diversity, accessible prey and no native predators. Areas that are close to human transport links are also at risk.

Question 4

What impacts can invasive species have?

Answer 4

Invasive species can alter or disrupt competitive interactions, food webs, nutrient input / output and interactions across trophic levels.

Question 5

How can invasive species be controlled?

Answer 5

Primarily, invasive species can be either eradicated or prevented in a variety of methods depending on the species. Eradication is often difficult unless within a closed area like a small island. Prevention may involve policies and monitoring on imports.