Invasive Species - AP Environmental Science

Kudzu vine. Fast-growing vine that smothers native vegetation in the southeastern U.S.

National invasive species action plans. Coordinated policies for prevention, early detection, and rapid response.

Pesticides. Chemical control that targets specific invasive species populations.

High reproductive rate. Rapid reproduction overwhelms native species' ability to compete.

Zebra mussels. Filter feeders that clog pipes and disrupt food webs in the Great Lakes.

Lionfish. Venomous predators that consume native fish and disrupt reef ecosystems.

Agriculture. Crop damage and control costs significantly impact farm profitability.

Can lead to the extinction of native species. Invasives outcompete natives for resources, often driving them to extinction.

Strict quarantine and inspection measures. Border controls prevent species from entering new regions.

To prevent and mitigate the negative impacts of invasives. Protect native biodiversity and ecosystem function from invasive harm.

Can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity. Hybridization and displacement reduce native gene pools.

Brown tree snake. Introduced to Guam, caused extinction of most native forest birds.

Defoliation of native plants. Insects strip leaves from trees, weakening or killing native plants.

They can alter soil composition and nutrient availability. Root systems and chemical secretions change soil chemistry and structure.

Educates people to prevent and report invasives. Early detection and community involvement improve control effectiveness.

Can reduce fish populations and alter ecosystems. Competition and predation by invasives collapse commercial fish stocks.

Through global trade and transportation. Ships, planes, and cargo accidentally transport species across borders.

Can damage natural attractions, reducing tourism appeal. Ecosystem degradation reduces scenic value and recreational opportunities.

A non-native species causing harm to ecosystems, economies, or health. Must be non-native AND cause ecological, economic, or health damage.

Asian carp. Large fish that consume plankton and juvenile fish in rivers and lakes.

Facilitates sharing of resources and strategies. Cross-border coordination prevents spread and improves control methods.

Can spread diseases to humans. Some invasives carry pathogens or cause allergic reactions in humans.

They can reduce crop yields and food availability. Agricultural pests reduce harvests, threatening global food supplies.

They can alter nutrient cycles and increase pollution. Filter feeders change chemistry; aquatic plants alter oxygen levels.

Disruption of predator-prey relationships. Invasives alter feeding relationships and energy flow through ecosystems.

Can lead to conflicts over resource management. Communities may disagree on control methods or resource allocation.

Can increase fire frequency and intensity. Invasive grasses create more flammable conditions than native plants.

Biological control using natural predators. Uses natural enemies to control populations without chemicals.

Humans transport species through trade and travel. Primary pathway for invasions through intentional and accidental introductions.