- Question
What is the impact of invasive species?
Invasive plant and animal species live in virtually all areas of the globe. The reason for their unnatural presence is because humans have accidentally or deliberately introduced them to new ecosystems. Because they have been introduced to new habitats they are not initially meant to be in, invasive species have negatively impacted their new homes. How extensive is their damage and are all invasive species harmful?
Invasive species harm native animals
Invasive species have a negative reputation for good reason. They have ruined ecosystems by eating native plants and animals. Because of their negative effects, invasive species should be relocated or eradicated.
Invasive species hurt humans
Invasive species hurt humans just as much as plants and animals. Invasive animals have killed and injured people, and invasive plants can cause rashes and poison people.
Invasive species help ecosystems
Although invasive species have negative reputations, some invasive species are harmless and help their new habitats. The new plants and animals are an extra source of nutrients to the native habitat and its inhabitants. Helpful invasive species should stay in the habitats they currently reside in.