How could native species become an invasive species?

According to a recent study at Purdue University, the odorous house ant (Tapinoma sessile) is not only thriving in urban areas; it's actually taking over. Moving to a non-native environment and forcing out native species is typically characteristic of an invasive species. read more

In some cases, a species native in a given region can exhibit rapid growth and biomass accumulation, high reproductive output, phenotypic plasticity, plasticity of reproductive strategies and many other characteristics of invasive alien species. read more

An introduced species might become invasive if it can outcompete native species for resources such as nutrients, light, physical space, water, or food. If these species evolved under great competition or predation, then the new environment may host fewer able competitors, allowing the invader to proliferate quickly. read more