Ecology Vocab Part 3Flashcard

Front

What is an invasive species?

Back

An invasive species is a plant or animal that is not native to an ecosystem and spreads rapidly, often causing harm to native species.

Front

What does it mean for a species to be 'not native'?

Back

A species is considered 'not native' if it originates from a different ecosystem and has been introduced to a new environment.

Front

What is competition in ecology?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more species vie for the same resources in an ecosystem, such as food, space, or light.

Front

What is mutualism?

Back

Mutualism is a type of symbiotic relationship where both species involved benefit from the interaction.

Front

What is parasitism?

Back

Parasitism is a relationship where one species benefits at the expense of another, often harming the host.

Front

What is commensalism?

Back

Commensalism is a relationship where one species benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Front

What are some effects of invasive species on native ecosystems?

Back

Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food webs, and lead to the decline or extinction of native species.

Front

How can invasive species spread to new environments?

Back

Invasive species can spread through human activities, such as trade, travel, and the release of pets into the wild.

Front

What is an example of an invasive species?

Back

Kudzu is an example of an invasive species that has overgrown many areas in the southern United States.

Front

What is the difference between native and invasive species?

Back

Native species are those that naturally occur in an ecosystem, while invasive species are introduced and can disrupt the balance of that ecosystem.