key term - Invasive Species

Definition

Invasive species are non-native organisms that cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. They outcompete native species for resources and disrupt ecosystems.

Related terms

Non-native species: Non-native species are organisms that have been introduced to an area outside their natural range. They may or may not become invasive.

Biodiversity:

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in a particular habitat or on Earth as a whole. Invasive species can negatively impact biodiversity by reducing the number of native species.

Ecological disruption: Ecological disruption occurs when there is a disturbance or alteration in an ecosystem's structure or function. Invasive species often cause ecological disruptions by changing resource availability and interactions among organisms.