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The effects of biological invasions on local ecosystems

Last updated on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

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The Effects of Biological Invasions on Local Ecosystems

Biological invasions occur when species are introduced to new environments, often due to human activities such as global trade and travel. While not all introduced species become invasive, those that do can have significant impacts on local ecosystems.

Disruption of Native Species

Biological invaders can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and shelter. This can lead to a decline in native populations and even extinction in extreme cases. The loss of native species can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem and alter its overall biodiversity.

Changes in Ecosystem Structure

Invasive species can also modify the physical environment of an ecosystem. For example, they may alter soil composition, nutrient cycling, and water availability. These changes can further impact native species by reducing their habitat quality and availability.

Spread of Diseases

Some invasive species can introduce new diseases to local populations, which may not have evolved defenses against them. This can result in widespread illness and mortality among native species, further destabilizing the ecosystem.

Altered Ecological Interactions

Biological invasions can also disrupt existing ecological interactions, such as predation and mutualistic relationships. For example, an invasive predator may eliminate a key prey species, causing a ripple effect through the food chain. These disruptions can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem.

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