1. Introduced Species
Affects on Ecosystems

2. Introduced Species Native species Introduced species
Naturally inhabit an area
Introduced species
Introduced to area beyond its natural range
a.k.a. non-native species, alien species

3. Introduced species Introduced species can include:
Plants
Animals
Microorganisms
Arrive in new areas by
Ship
Airplane
Other human transport

4. Introduced species Introduced species can be harmless
not adapted to survive in new area
Introduced species can be beneficial
European leaf-feeding beetle

5. Invasive species Species is invasive if: Climate is favourable
Few natural predators in new area
Food is abundant & lacks defense
Out-competes native species for resources

6. Impacts Invasive species exploit a niche in ecosystem
Causes dramatic change to ecosystem

7. Impacts
Competition
Invasive species can be better at getting resources than native species
Food
Shelter
Carpet Burweed
Saltspring Island

8. Impacts
Predation
Invasive species can have devastating impact on native prey
Prey adaptations are for natural predators
May not have defenses for introduced predator
Yellow crazy ants
Christmas Island, Australia

9. Impacts Parasitism / Disease
Invasion of parasite or disease-causing microorganism causes weakness of immune system
Disease, illness, death
Whitebark Pine & blister rust

10. Impacts Habitat Alteration
Invasive species can drastically change conditions in ecosystem
Conditions no longer suitable for some native species

11. Solutions Invasive species removal Introduction of predator
Scotch broom
Introduction of predator
Purple loosestrife & leaf-feeding beetle