Invasive Species

Question 1

Which statement accurately identifies two invasive species and explains one way each one harms the ecosystem where it lives?

Accepted Answer

Zebra mussel – blocks water‑intake pipes and outcompetes native mussels; Lionfish – eats many small reef fish, lowering native fish populations.

Answer

European starling – competes with native birds for nesting holes; Cane toad – provides a new food source for native snakes.

Answer

Brown tree snake – spreads disease to native birds; Asian carp – cleans polluted rivers by eating excess algae.

Answer

Nutria – builds burrows that improve soil quality; Zebra mussel – creates extra habitat for native fish.

Question 2

Which sentence best explains what scientists mean when they call an animal an invasive species?

Accepted Answer

It is an animal that does not originally live in that area, has been brought there by people, and can harm the local plants and animals.

Answer

It is an animal that has moved into a new area on its own because the climate became warmer.

Answer

It is any animal that is new to a place, even if it does not affect the other living things there.

Answer

It is a native animal that suddenly becomes very numerous and eats a lot of food.

Question 3

Which statement best defines an invasive species?

Accepted Answer

A species that is not native to an area and has been brought there by humans, where it can cause problems for the local ecosystem.

Answer

A species that moves on its own to a new area because the climate changes.

Answer

A species that lives in its natural home but is becoming endangered.

Answer

A species that is native to an area and helps other native animals survive.

Try three questions