Question 5

Species that have been introduced to a new habitat from another place in the world and have become pests are said to be invasive.

Invasive species are organisms that, when introduced to a new environment, proliferate and disrupt local ecosystems, often causing harm to native species and habitats.

A) commensal

Commensal species are those that live in a relationship with another species where one benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed. This term does not apply to species that become pests in new environments, as it does not imply harmful effects on local ecosystems.

B) predatory

Predatory species refer to organisms that hunt and feed on other organisms for survival. While some invasive species may also be predatory, the term does not specifically describe the nature of their introduction or the ecological disruption they cause.

C) parasitic

Parasitic species are those that live on or in a host organism, deriving nutrients at the host's expense. Although some invasive species can exhibit parasitic behavior, the term does not encompass the broader impact of species that disrupt ecosystems after being introduced.

D) invasive

Invasive species are defined as non-native organisms that establish themselves in new environments, often leading to ecological and economic damage. This term accurately describes species that become pests after being introduced to new habitats, making it the correct answer.

Conclusion

The term "invasive" specifically identifies species that have been introduced to new habitats and have subsequently caused ecological harm, differentiating them from commensal, predatory, or parasitic species. The other options fail to capture the essence of the ecological threat posed by these introduced species, confirming that "invasive" is the definitive term for such organisms.