Invasive Species, Biodiversity, Symbiosis

Front

What is an invasive species?

Back

An invasive species is a non-native organism that spreads rapidly in a new environment, often causing harm to native species and ecosystems.

Front

What is biodiversity?

Back

Biodiversity refers to the variety of species on Earth, including the diversity of ecosystems and genetic differences within species.

Front

Why is biodiversity important for ecosystems?

Back

Biodiversity allows ecosystems to recover more easily from stresses, supports more populations of organisms, and enhances ecosystem resilience.

Front

What happens when an invasive species is introduced to an ecosystem?

Back

Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, leading to a decline in native populations and altering the ecosystem.

Front

What is the relationship between deforestation and carbon dioxide levels?

Back

Deforestation increases carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere because trees absorb CO2; fewer trees mean more CO2.

Front

How do invasive species affect food availability for native species?

Back

Invasive species can increase in number quickly, leading to less food available for native species.

Front

What is competition in an ecosystem?

Back

Competition occurs when two or more species vie for the same resources, such as food, space, or mates.

Front

Give an example of an invasive species.

Back

The zebra mussel is an example of an invasive species that disrupts local ecosystems by outcompeting native mussels.

Front

What is an ecosystem?

Back

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with each other and their physical environment.

Front

What role do predators play in an ecosystem?

Back

Predators help control the population of prey species, maintaining balance within the ecosystem.