Invasive Species

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-014893",
  "term": "Invasive Species",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. These are species that are imported from their original ecosystem. They can out-compete native species as the invaders often do not have predators or other factors to keep them in check. The zebra mussel is an example of an invasive species in the Great Lakes.\n\n2. A type of plant, animal, or other organism that does not naturally live in a certain area but has been introduced there, often by people. An invasive species can spread quickly, especially if it has no natural predators in its new home. An invasive species can hurt native species, disrupt ecosystems, and create problems for people (for example, weeds and insects that damage crops).\n\n3. A non-indigenous plant or animal species that can harm the environment, human health, or the economy.\n\n4. With respect to a particular ecosystem, any species that is not native to that ecosystem, and whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.\n\n5. Plants and animals that have been introduced into their current habitat, where they risk harm to native species.",
  "subject": "Climate change",
  "references": [
    "Ecological Risk Assessment Glossary of Terms",
    "Student's Guide to Global Climate Change",
    "Report on the Environment (ROE) Glossary",
    "40 CFR 158.1701 (2022)",
    "Chesapeake Bay Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/invasive-species/"
}