What does the term "invasive species" refer to?

The term "invasive species" specifically refers to non-native species that spread rapidly in new environments, often leading to significant ecological disruption. These species can outcompete local flora and fauna for resources such as food, light, and space, resulting in diminished biodiversity and altered ecosystem functions. Invasive species may bring diseases or parasites that native species are not equipped to handle, further threatening local biodiversity.

Understanding the role of invasive species is crucial for environmental conservation efforts, as they can lead to the decline or extinction of native species and upset the balance of ecosystems. The management of invasive species is an important aspect of preserving biodiversity. Other options do not accurately define invasive species; for instance, native species thriving in local ecosystems would not be classified as invasive, and protected species refer to those that are safeguarded under conservation laws, not necessarily linked to the impacts of invasive species. Similarly, species that play crucial roles in their habitats can be native or non-native but do not inherently imply the invasive characteristics needed for this classification.