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Chapter 4: Problem 8

What problems arise when a species is introduced from a foreign ecosystem? Why do these problems occur?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Problems that arise when a species is introduced from a foreign ecosystem mainly include disruption of native species, alteration of the ecosystem balance, disease spread, competition for resources, predation on natives, and potential invasiveness. These issues occur due to the absence of natural controls or predators for the introduced species in the new environment, leading to rapid growth, displacement or extinction of native species, and severe ecosystem alterations. The major significance is the potential for ecosystem collapse.

Step by step solution

01

Identify Potential Problems

When a species from a foreign ecosystem is introduced into a new environment, several problems can occur. These include disruption of native species, alteration of the ecosystem balance, spreading diseases, competition for resources, predation on native species, and the potential for the introduced species to become invasive.
02

Explain Why These Problems Occur

These problems arise mainly due to the lack of natural predators or controls for the introduced species in the new ecosystem. It may outcompete native species for resources, spread diseases that native species have no resistance to, prey on native species, or reproduce rapidly and become invasive, causing significant changes in the ecosystem. All these factors contribute to the displacement or even extinction of native species and the alteration of the ecosystem.
03

Expand on Major Problems

A significant problem is when the introduced species become invasive. Because they have no natural predators, these species can reproduce rapidly and take over the new environment. This can lead to a decline or even extinction of native species due to the competition for resources. Invasive species can also bring new diseases to which the native species have no immunity.
04

Discuss Ecological Impact

Ecology-wise, the displacement of native species and alterations in the ecosystem can disrupt food chains and biogeochemical cycles. This can lead to the decline of certain species that were reliant on the displaced species for food or a particular environmental condition. These changes can potentially lead to ecosystem collapse if left unchecked.

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