In which type of ecosystem do invasive species often thrive due to the lack of natural predators?

Invasive species often thrive in aquatic ecosystems primarily because these environments can provide ideal conditions for their rapid population growth. Aquatic ecosystems, such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, can be highly adaptable, allowing invasive species to outcompete native species for resources like food and space.

Moreover, the introduction of an invasive species into an aquatic ecosystem typically occurs with a minimal presence of natural predators. Many times, these organisms are introduced by human activity, such as shipping or aquarium releases, and they exploit the available niche without the checks and balances that their native environments would normally impose. This lack of predation, combined with high nutrient availability, often results in explosive population growth, which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.

In contrast, while other ecosystems like coral reefs, deserts, and forests can also be impacted by invasive species, they may have more established predator-prey relationships and competitive dynamics that can limit the success of invasives. For instance, coral reefs have specific environmental conditions where invasive species often struggle to establish themselves due to the intricate relationships required for survival. Deserts provide extreme conditions that can limit the adaptability of many invasive species. Forests, although affected by invasive flora and fauna, usually maintain more biodiversity and predator presence, which can