What defines invasive species?

Invasive species are specifically defined as non-native organisms that, when introduced to a new environment, have the potential to disrupt local ecosystems. This disruption can occur in various forms, such as competing with native species for resources, altering habitats, and introducing diseases. Invasive species often thrive in their new surroundings due to a lack of natural predators or competitors, allowing them to spread rapidly and dominate the ecosystem.

This understanding highlights the challenges associated with invasive species and emphasizes the importance of managing their presence to protect native biodiversity. In contrast, options that suggest beneficial organisms, endangered species, or native species thriving do not align with the definition of invasive species, which is fundamentally about the ecological harm caused by non-native organisms.