What are invasive species, and why are they bad?
Kudzu in Alabama… …and in North Carolina An “invasive species” is a plant, animal, or pathogen that aggressively colonizes habitats. The invasive species that are bad for the environment are usually non-native invasive species. These plants colonize habitats, and exclude the native plants and animals. Since they decrease native biodiversity, they are bad for the environment. Another name for invasive species is “exotic species”, because the word exotic means something from another place. (Sometimes people think exotic species means an exciting or interesting plant or animal—this is because people tend to think of things from other lands as exciting or interesting, so the confusion has developed.) Other words for invasive species are non-natives, aliens, or just plain weeds. Invasive species can be merely annoying, dreadfully destructive, or anywhere in between. A mildly annoying invasive species is the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). This plant is from Europe, but may be found
