What might allow an invasive species to outcompete a native species?
they use the same shelter, space
they have no predators, so they can spread rapidly
they are introduced by humans at high rates
they eat the same food resources
Invasive species can outcompete native species due to a variety of factors:
1. Competitive advantage: Invasive species often possess certain traits or characteristics that give them a competitive advantage over native species. This advantage may include superior adaptability to changing environmental conditions, faster growth rates, higher reproduction rates, efficient resource utilization, broad ecological tolerance, or the ability to occupy multiple niches.
2. Lack of natural predators: Invasive species may not have any natural predators or face reduced predation pressure in their new habitat, allowing them to multiply rapidly. This absence of predators gives them a competitive edge as they can allocate more resources towards reproduction and expansion.
3. Resource availability: Invasive species may exploit the same food resources as native species, leading to increased competition for limited resources. This competition can often lead to the displacement or reduction of native populations.
4. Rapid spread and colonization: Invasive species are often introduced to new environments by humans at high rates, typically resulting in the establishment of larger initial populations. These larger populations can rapidly colonize new areas, outcompeting native species that may struggle to respond or adapt to the invasion.
5. Lack of co-evolved defenses: Native species may lack effective defenses against the introduced invasive species. Invasive species often evolve in a different biogeographical region or ecosystem, and native species may not have co-evolved with them to develop mechanisms to combat them effectively.
6. Disturbance of ecological balance: Human activities, such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, or alterations of natural ecosystems, can create opportunities for invasive species to establish and proliferate. Native species, on the other hand, may be more susceptible to these changes, leading to a decline in their population size or their ability to compete with invasives.