Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
What is the impact of invasive species?
Position‹3 of 3
Invasive species help ecosystems
Argument1 of 2›

Invasive species are pest killers

Pests are a universal problem. No one likes them, and they often carry diseases. Invasive species have often been introduced into habitats where pests run rampant. Because of the invasive species, the pests’ populations have successfully diminished.

The argument

Invasive species can kill pests in an ecosystem. Harlequin ladybirds were introduced to North America and Europe to control aphids. Since pests aren’t beneficial to an ecosystem, invasive species can be a great way to save an ecosystem from pests.

Premises

[P1]Some invasive species are introduced specifically to kill harmful pests, like harlequin ladybirds brought in to control aphids. [P2] Pests are not beneficial to an ecosystem, so removing them is helpful. [P3] An invasive species that eliminates pests can thus protect an ecosystem. [C] Therefore, because they can be effective pest killers, invasive species can help ecosystems.

Counter-arguments

Pests are beneficial, and bring balance to an ecosystem. For example, cockroaches are pests, but their consumption of waste provides Nitrogen to plants to help them grow and stay healthy. Without pests, the ecosystem would be thrown in disarray.

Rejecting the premises

[Rejecting P1] Some invasive species kill off beneficial organisms too. [Rejecting P2] Pests are beneficial to an ecosystem.