What are introduced species?

Introduced species refer to organisms that have been brought to a new location by human activity, either intentionally or accidentally. These species can be plants, animals, or other organisms that are not native to the ecosystem into which they have been introduced. The introduction often alters the local biodiversity and can lead to various ecological impacts, such as competition with native species or the introduction of new diseases.

This distinction is essential to understanding ecological dynamics and conservation efforts. For example, the introduction of a non-native species can sometimes benefit agriculture or horticulture but can also threaten indigenous species and disrupt local ecosystems. Recognizing introduced species is critical in fields such as ecology, environmental management, and wildlife conservation.