Biotic Factors in Ecosystems

Ecosystems are delicate and can be destabilized by both abiotic and biotic changes. Removing a species can disrupt food chains, while introducing new species can lead to overpopulation and habitat destruction, as seen with rabbits in Australia. New species may also bring diseases, affecting native species. Removing predators can cause prey populations to grow uncontrollably, further impacting the ecosystem. Even small changes can have significant effects over time.

What are the implications of introducing a new species into an ecosystem?

In what ways can biotic changes take time to affect an ecosystem?