What might allow an invasive species to outcompete a native species?
a
They use the same shelter or space.
b
They have no predators, so they can spread rapidly.
c
They are introduced by humans at high rates.
d
They eat the same food resources.
they have no predator, so they can spread rapidly ~
b - They have no predators, so they can spread rapidly.
What might allow an invasive species to outcompete a native species?
a
They use the same shelter or space.
b
They have no predators, so they can spread rapidly.
c
They are introduced by humans at high rates.
d
They eat the same food resources.
The answer is d) They eat the same food resources.
When an invasive species is able to outcompete a native species, it usually means that it has a competitive advantage in some aspect of the environment. One of the most common ways invasive species achieve this advantage is by consuming the same food resources as the native species. Here's how you can reason your way to this answer:
First, let's consider option a) - They use the same shelter or space. While competition for shelter or space can definitely be a factor in the success of an invasive species, it is not the main reason they are able to outcompete native species in most cases. So, we can eliminate option a).
Next, let's look at option b) - They have no predators, so they can spread rapidly. While the absence of predators can certainly contribute to the rapid spread of invasive species, it is not specific to why they outcompete native species. Some native species may also lack predators and still be successful. Thus, option b) can be eliminated.
Moving on to option c) - They are introduced by humans at high rates. This is often a contributing factor to the success of invasive species, but it doesn't directly relate to their ability to outcompete native species. This option focuses more on the introduction of invasive species by humans, rather than the competitive advantage they possess. Hence, we can exclude option c).
Finally, we come to option d) - They eat the same food resources. This option directly addresses the competitive advantage of invasive species. When an invasive species consumes the same food resources as a native species, it has the potential to deplete those resources and outcompete the native species for access to food. This can give the invasive species an edge in survival and reproduction. Therefore, option d) is the correct answer.
In summary, the main reason why an invasive species may outcompete a native species is that they eat the same food resources, which allows them to deplete those resources and gain a competitive advantage.