Invasive Species

Front

What is an invasive species?

Back

A plant or animal that does harm in its non-native environment.

Front

What is a non-native species?

Back

A plant or animal that has been moved to a new place where it doesn't belong.

Front

How do most invasive species get to new areas?

Back

Humans take them accidentally or on purpose.

Front

What is ballast in a ship?

Back

A compartment that holds water, which can accidentally transport small organisms.

Front

Why can ballast water be a problem?

Back

It can move smaller fish or other organisms from their home to somewhere they don't belong.

Front

What happens when invasive species reproduce quickly?

Back

They can outcompete native species for resources.

Front

Can invasive species help the food web?

Back

No, they usually disrupt the food web.

Front

What is one way humans introduce invasive species?

Back

By transporting them in ships or on planes.

Front

What is an example of an invasive species?

Back

Zebra mussels, which can clog waterways and harm local ecosystems.

Front

What is the impact of invasive species on biodiversity?

Back

They can reduce biodiversity by outcompeting native species.