Which factor can threaten biodiversity due to introduced species?

Which factor can threaten biodiversity due to introduced species?

• A. Introduction of foreign species which damage biodiversity
• B. Reforestation
• C. Economic livelihoods
• D. Urban development

Answer: (A)

Introducing species from elsewhere can threaten biodiversity because those newcomers can establish and spread rapidly in a new environment, often without their natural predators. They outcompete native species for resources, prey on them, or alter habitats and ecosystem processes, leading to declines or losses in native diversity. This is the situation behind invasives like the cane toad in Australia, zebra mussels in the Great Lakes, or kudzu taking over parts of the U.S. While other factors like reforestation, economic pressures, or urban development influence biodiversity, they do not inherently represent the threat caused by non-native species establishing themselves and disrupting ecosystems.

Introducing species from elsewhere can threaten biodiversity because those newcomers can establish and spread rapidly in a new environment, often without their natural predators. They outcompete native species for resources, prey on them, or alter habitats and ecosystem processes, leading to declines or losses in native diversity. This is the situation behind invasives like the cane toad in Australia, zebra mussels in the Great Lakes, or kudzu taking over parts of the U.S. While other factors like reforestation, economic pressures, or urban development influence biodiversity, they do not inherently represent the threat caused by non-native species establishing themselves and disrupting ecosystems.