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Introduction Origin of Exotic Species Danger from Exotic Species

Zebra mussels are an exotic species capable of spreading through boats by clinging on rudder parts. Credit:USFWS/R. Griffiths

Introduction

Another issue that triggers possible extinction is the introduction of nonnative species. When a species is brought into a community which it has never encountered before, it may either survive or die from over-predation or heavy competition. Those that do survive may flourish and possibly, outcompete other species. Such species are known as exotic species.

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Origin of exotic species

Exotic species originate in different ways, the most visible of which is human migration. As humans travel across countries and perhaps, continents, they carry with them animals and plants purposely, as pets or coincidentally, as parasites or seeds. Thus human migration can also create nonnative species migration.

Another way of introduction of nonnative species has been through pest-control. Some exotic insects are introduced in new farms to control local pests. However, done negligently, such means of protection can backfire, if the exotic predators multiply fast and become another sort of pest.

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Danger from Exotic Species

Exotic species increase the pace of extinction when they start occupying the niches of other species. In a new habitat, they are safe from local predators and competitors. Most often, they are pioneer species, and consequently, possess adaptations that help them compete effectively for the resources of the new habitat. Once they start multiplying and their niche broadens, they start infringing upon native species. Soon, native species are pushed to the brink of extinction.

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