Introducing exotic species can disrupt the balance of an ecosystem. As ecosystems evolve, the native organisms develop connections and dependencies that maintain populations in balance. The introduction of non-native species upsets these interactions, potentially causing the unraveling of the ecosystem's web of connections. Some examples of exotic species that have disrupted ecosystems include hybrid striped bass, brown tree snakes, kudzu, gypsy moths, Asian lady beetles, purple loosestrife, and snakehead fish.

1. Impact of Exotic Species What is the impact of exotic species introduced into the ecosystem?

2. As ecosystems evolve and become more diverse and more stable, the organisms within the ecosystem achieve a dynamic balance. Each is connected and dependent on the others.

3. Environmental resistance and each organism’s biotic potential interact to keep the populations balanced. If the interaction between indigenous (native) species is lost, the balance is upset and the web of connections begins to unravel.

4. The introduction of exotic (non-indigenous) species can upset the balance. What are some examples of exotic (non-indigenous) species?

6. Hybrid Striped Bass

7. Brown Tree Snake

8. Kudzu

9. Gypsy Moth

10. Asian Lady Beetle

11. Purple Loosestrife

12. Snakehead Fish

13. Water Hyacinth

14. Zebra Mussels

15. Asian Swamp Eel

16. South American Fire Ant

17. Africanized Honey Bee or “Killer Bee”

18. Buckthorn

19. Round Goby

20. Sea Lamprey

21. nutria

22. Cane Toad