What are invasive species and their impact on ecosystems?

Invasive species are non native organisms that are introduced into a new ecosystem where they establish, spread rapidly, and cause harm to native species, habitats, and ecological processes. These species often lack natural predators in the new environment, allowing them to outcompete native species for food, space, and other resources. Their impact includes reduction in native biodiversity, disruption of food chains, alteration of habitat structure, and changes in ecosystem functions such as nutrient cycling. Examples in India include Lantana camara, which invades forest areas, and water hyacinth, which affects aquatic ecosystems by blocking sunlight and reducing oxygen levels. Invasive species are a major threat to ecological balance and biodiversity conservation.