What impact do invasive species typically have on native ecosystems?

Invasive species often have a significant negative impact on native ecosystems by displacing native species. This displacement can occur through several mechanisms, including competition for resources such as food, space, and nutrients. Invasive species may have traits that allow them to thrive in a new environment more effectively than native species, such as rapid reproduction, aggressive growth habits, or a lack of natural predators. As a result, they can outcompete and undermine populations of native species, leading to reduced biodiversity within the ecosystem.

When native species are displaced, the overall structure and function of the ecosystem can be altered. This can lead to changes in food webs, loss of habitat for other species, and diminished ecosystem services, such as pollination or water purification. Over time, the presence of invasive species can result in significant ecological shifts, making ecosystems less stable and less able to recover from environmental stressors. Thus, the correct answer highlights the disruptive role that invasive species play in native ecosystems.