biological invasions Flashcards
what is a non-native species?
a species introduced to a region outside of its natural historical range
what is biological invasion?
the spread and establishment of a species into a region beyond its natural range
what is the process of biological invasion?
- introduction
- establishment (forming of a self-sustaining population)
- geographic spread (natural or human-assisted dispersal)
what is an invasive species?
an introduced species that spreads rapidly that causes adverse ecological or economic effects
how are modern biological invasions occurring?
accidentally:
- hitchhikers (ballast water)
- escapees
deliberate introductions:
- biological control (mongoose)
- live trade (food, ornamental, pet release)
what are the traits of the worst invaders?
- not being a picky eater
- having high tolerance for different environments
- phenotypic plasticity
what places are most vulnerable to invasion?
islands and lakes because they are more isolated from other species, they have not seen as many things as other places
-> also easier to eradicate invasive species
