What impact do invasive species have on wetland ecosystems?

Invasive species significantly disrupt wetland ecosystems primarily because they often outcompete native species for resources such as nutrients, light, and space. This competition can lead to declines in native populations, which may have co-evolved with the local environment and play specific roles in the ecosystem. When invasive species establish themselves, they can alter the structure and function of the wetland, changing habitat availability for other organisms and potentially leading to a loss of biodiversity.

The introduction of invasive species often results in a shift in the community dynamics within the wetland, where the new arrivals dominate and lead to the decline of native flora and fauna. This impact can change not only the biological community but also the physical characteristics of the habitat itself, affecting water quality, sediment stability, and overall ecosystem health.