Invasive species can impact waterways primarily by:

Invasive species can have a profound impact on waterways primarily by disrupting ecosystems and outcompeting native species. When invasive species are introduced into a new environment, they often lack natural predators and can rapidly reproduce, leading to a significant increase in their population. This can result in them dominating the resources—such as nutrients, light, and space—that are also critical for native species.

As these invasive species outcompete native organisms, they can alter existing food webs, reduce the population of native species, and ultimately lead to a decline in biodiversity. The effects can ripple throughout the entire ecosystem, affecting not only the species that are directly competing but also those that rely on native species for food and habitat. Additionally, invasive species can change the physical and chemical characteristics of the environment, further stressing native populations and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.

This understanding highlights the importance of monitoring and managing invasive species to protect the health of waterways and their ecosystems.