What is a potential negative impact of introducing hybrid species to ecosystems?

Introducing hybrid species to ecosystems can lead to significant disruption, particularly because they can outcompete native species. When hybrids are introduced, they may possess traits that allow them to thrive in the new environment more effectively than indigenous species. This competitive advantage can lead to a decline in native populations, as the hybrids may exploit resources more successfully or reproduce at a higher rate.

In many cases, this competition can result in the displacement of native species, ultimately reducing biodiversity. Native species that have adapted over time to their specific environments often lack the resilience to compete with hybrids, which can disrupt ecological balances and lead to a loss of unique genetic diversity. Therefore, the introduction of hybrid species poses a threat to the stability and integrity of ecosystems that developed under specific historical and evolutionary pressures.