Answer: They disrupt native ecosystems, outcompete native species, or prey on them without natural controls.
- A They are characterized mainly by their unusually large physical body size compared to natives
- B They disrupt native ecosystems, outcompete native species, or prey on them without natural controls
- C They are sometimes thought to function mainly as apex predators within their new environment
- D They are sometimes thought to mainly require greater access to direct sunlight than natives
Correct answer: B. They disrupt native ecosystems, outcompete native species, or prey on them without natural controls
Explanation: Invasive species in new environments lack natural predators/competitors, so their populations grow unchecked, outcompeting native species and disrupting ecosystems.
Energy pyramid showing a simple food chain (producer to herbivore to carnivore) with energy decreasing roughly tenfold at each trophic level.
Concept context
Ecosystems, food chains, energy flow, nutrient cycles, biodiversity, and conservation.