Human habits play a big role in how invasive species spread and can cause problems in nature. Here are some ways this happens:
Global Trade: When people buy exotic pets or plants, they sometimes let them go into the wild. For example, in Florida, the Burmese python is doing very well after being released by pet owners.
Transportation: Ships can carry invasive species in their ballast water, which is water used to keep ships stable. An example is the zebra mussel, which came from Europe and is now blocking waterways all over the U.S.
Urbanization: When we build cities and roads, we destroy natural habitats. This makes it easier for invasive species to move in and take over.
In short, our choices and actions can have a big impact on the health of our ecosystems and the variety of living things around us.
Human habits play a big role in how invasive species spread and can cause problems in nature. Here are some ways this happens:
Global Trade: When people buy exotic pets or plants, they sometimes let them go into the wild. For example, in Florida, the Burmese python is doing very well after being released by pet owners.
Transportation: Ships can carry invasive species in their ballast water, which is water used to keep ships stable. An example is the zebra mussel, which came from Europe and is now blocking waterways all over the U.S.
Urbanization: When we build cities and roads, we destroy natural habitats. This makes it easier for invasive species to move in and take over.
In short, our choices and actions can have a big impact on the health of our ecosystems and the variety of living things around us.