AP Environmental Science Flashcards: Invasive Species
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is an invasive species?
An invasive species is a species that can live and thrive outside of its normal habitat and is considered invasive when it threatens native species.
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What is an invasive species?
An invasive species is a species that can live and thrive outside of its normal habitat and is considered invasive when it threatens native species.
What two biological characteristics often allow invasive species to outcompete native species?
Invasive species are often generalist and r-selected species, which allows them to adapt to new environments and reproduce quickly.
What is the main environmental problem associated with invasive species?
The main problem is that they threaten native species, often by outcompeting them for resources like food, water, and habitat.
Define 'generalist species' in the context of invasive species.
A generalist species is one that can live and thrive in a wide variety of environmental conditions, which helps it succeed outside of its normal habitat.
What is the primary method for controlling invasive species?
Invasive species can be controlled through a variety of human interventions.
A new plant is introduced to an ecosystem. It reproduces very quickly and can grow in many different soil types. Is it likely to become invasive?
Yes, because it displays characteristics of a generalist (grows in many soil types) and an r-selected species (reproduces quickly), it is likely to outcompete native plants.
If a species can live outside its normal habitat but does not threaten native species, is it considered invasive?
No, according to the definition, a species is only considered invasive when it becomes a threat to native species.
Why does being a generalist, r-selected species create an environmental problem in a new habitat?
These traits enable the species to rapidly establish a large population and outcompete native species for essential resources, thus threatening them.
Define 'r-selected species' in the context of invasive species.
An r-selected species is one that reproduces quickly and in large numbers, a trait that helps invasive populations grow rapidly and outcompete native organisms.
At what point is a non-native species officially considered 'invasive'?
A species living outside its normal habitat is considered invasive specifically when it begins to threaten native species.