Understanding Invasive Species

The video begins with a story about bunnies on Planet Wonderful, leading to a discussion on exotic invasive species. It explains how these species can disrupt ecosystems, using examples like the European Starling, Boa Constrictor, Kudzu, and Brown Tree Snake. The video discusses challenges in managing invasive species and potential solutions, including biological control. It concludes with a positive example of the Asian Clam, highlighting the complexity and impact of invasive species.

What was the initial reaction of the bunnies when they arrived on Planet Wonderful?

• They were excited to explore.

• They were scared and confused.

• They immediately started eating.

• They wanted to return home.

What is a common characteristic of exotic invasive species?

• They are always beneficial to the ecosystem.

• They never affect local species.

• They often become dominant in new environments.

• They always die in new ecosystems.

Why were European Starlings introduced to America?

• To replace native bird species.

• Because they were mentioned in Shakespeare.

• To add to the biodiversity.

• To control insect populations.

What was the unintended consequence of introducing Kudzu to the American southeast?

• It improved air quality.

• It overgrew and covered landscapes.

• It became a major food source for livestock.

• It stabilized hillsides effectively.

What is a significant problem caused by the Brown Tree Snake in Guam?

• It increased the number of native birds.

• It improved the local ecosystem.

• It helped control the rat population.

• It caused power outages by climbing power lines.

What is a primary method to prevent the spread of invasive species?

• Allowing them to adapt naturally.

• Introducing more invasive species.

• Preventing their entry in the first place.

• Encouraging their spread for biodiversity.

What is a potential risk of using biological control to manage invasive species?

• It has no effect on the ecosystem.

• It is too expensive to implement.

• It can lead to the extinction of native species.

• It always works perfectly.

What was the unexpected outcome of introducing mongoose to Hawaii?

• They controlled the rat population effectively.

• They preferred eating native bird eggs.

• They became extinct quickly.

• They improved the local ecosystem.

How do Asian Clams differ from native American clams?

• They require specific water conditions.

• They can live almost anywhere and self-fertilize.

• They are less adaptable than native clams.

• They are very picky about their environment.

What is a rare positive impact of an invasive species?

• They always destroy local ecosystems.

• They can sometimes fill ecological roles of declining native species.

• They never adapt to new environments.

• They always bring new diseases.