Invasive species can have numerous negative effects on native habitats, including:
Competition: Invasive species often outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat, leading to a decline in native populations.
Predation: Invasive predators can disrupt native ecosystems by preying on native species that may not have evolved defenses against them.
Habitat alteration: Invasive plants can alter habitats by changing soil composition, shading out native vegetation, and altering water flow patterns, which can negatively impact native species.
Disease transmission: Invasive species can introduce new diseases to native populations, often with devastating consequences, as the native species may not have immunity to these diseases.
Genetic hybridization: Invasive species may interbreed with native species, leading to genetic pollution and the loss of genetic diversity in native populations.
Overall, invasive species can significantly disrupt native ecosystems, leading to declines in biodiversity, ecosystem function, and ecosystem services.
