Final answer:
Invasive species possess specific characteristics that enable them to thrive in new environments. Two important characteristics are high reproductive rate and generalist diet with adaptable behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Invasive species have specific characteristics that enable them to thrive in new environments. Two characteristics of invasive species are:
- High reproductive rate: Invasive species often have the ability to reproduce quickly and produce large numbers of offspring. This gives them a competitive advantage over native species because they can quickly establish large populations in their new habitat. For example, the cane toad, an invasive species in Australia, is known for its high reproductive rate, with a female capable of laying thousands of eggs in a single breeding season.
- Generalist diet and adaptable behavior: Invasive species are often able to utilize a wide range of food sources and adapt their behavior to changing environmental conditions. This allows them to outcompete native species for resources and survive in different habitats. For instance, the European starling, an invasive bird species in North America, has a highly adaptable diet and can consume a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and grains.