Here's a breakdown:
* Introduced: This means the animal was brought to a new place where it did not naturally exist.
* Animal: Any living organism belonging to the kingdom Animalia. This can include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, etc.
* Native: A species that naturally occurs in a specific region and has evolved there over time.
Examples of introduced animals:
* Intentional:
* Domesticated animals: Cows, pigs, chickens, cats, dogs, etc.
* Game animals: Deer, pheasant, trout, etc.
* Pets: Rabbits, hamsters, goldfish, etc.
* Unintentional:
* Stowaways on ships: Rats, cockroaches, etc.
* Accidental release: Burmese pythons in Florida, zebra mussels in the Great Lakes, etc.
Impacts of introduced animals:
Introduced animals can have significant impacts on the environment and ecosystems:
* Competition with native species: Introduced species can outcompete native species for food, habitat, and resources.
* Predation of native species: Introduced predators can decimate native populations.
* Disease transmission: Introduced animals can carry diseases that can affect native animals and even humans.
* Habitat destruction: Introduced species can alter the physical structure of habitats.
Other terms used:
* Non-native species: Similar to introduced species, but sometimes used to describe plants as well.
* Invasive species: An introduced species that spreads aggressively and causes harm to the environment, economy, or human health.
It's important to remember that introduced species are not always harmful. Some introduced species can be beneficial, such as certain agricultural crops or livestock. However, it's essential to be aware of the potential impacts of introducing new species to an area.