Biological invasion

Definition

Biological invasion refers to the process by which non-native species establish themselves in new environments, often leading to significant ecological changes and impacts on local biodiversity. This phenomenon can disrupt ecosystems, outcompete native species for resources, and contribute to the decline of indigenous populations, making it a critical concern in the context of mass extinctions, both historically and presently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Biological invasions can lead to the extinction of native species by outcompeting them for resources like food and habitat.
2. The impact of biological invasions is often amplified in island ecosystems, where species have evolved without certain predators or competitors.
3. Human activities such as global trade, travel, and habitat modification facilitate biological invasions by creating pathways for non-native species to thrive.
4. Mass extinctions throughout Earth's history have been associated with biological invasions, as new species disrupt existing ecosystems.
5. Control measures for invasive species may include biological control, chemical treatments, and habitat restoration to support native biodiversity.

Review Questions

• How do biological invasions contribute to mass extinctions historically and in contemporary ecosystems?
  • Biological invasions contribute to mass extinctions by allowing non-native species to establish themselves in new environments, where they often outcompete native species for resources. This competition can lead to declines or extinctions of indigenous populations. Historically, many mass extinction events have been linked to the introduction of invasive species that disrupted established ecosystems and altered species interactions.
• Discuss the ecological consequences of biological invasions on native biodiversity and ecosystem health.
  • The ecological consequences of biological invasions include reduced native biodiversity due to competition and predation from invasive species. Invasive species can disrupt nutrient cycles, alter habitats, and change community dynamics, leading to a decline in ecosystem health. As native species are pushed out or become extinct, the overall resilience of ecosystems diminishes, making them more vulnerable to further environmental changes.
• Evaluate strategies for managing biological invasions and their effectiveness in preventing biodiversity loss.
  • Managing biological invasions involves several strategies including prevention through regulation of trade and travel, early detection and rapid response to new invasions, and long-term control measures such as habitat restoration. The effectiveness of these strategies can vary; prevention is often the most effective approach as it stops invasions before they start. However, once invasive species are established, management becomes complex and may require a combination of methods tailored to specific situations. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management are crucial for mitigating impacts on biodiversity.

Related terms

Invasive Species: Species that are introduced to a new habitat and spread rapidly, often causing harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

Biodiversity Loss: The reduction in the variety and variability of life forms within a given ecosystem, often resulting from human activities such as habitat destruction and the introduction of invasive species.

Ecosystem Disruption: A disturbance in an ecosystem caused by various factors, including the introduction of invasive species that can alter species interactions and nutrient cycles.