What are exotic species?

Exotic species, also known as non-native or alien species, are defined as species that do not originate from a particular region but have been introduced, either intentionally or accidentally, to that area from elsewhere. This introduction can occur through various means, such as trade, agriculture, or environmental changes.

The key aspect of exotic species is that their presence in a new environment typically occurs outside of their historical range. Upon introduction, these species can potentially thrive in the new habitat because they may have fewer natural predators or competitors, leading to ecological changes. While some exotic species can coexist harmoniously within the local ecosystem, others can become invasive, outcompeting native species and disrupting local biodiversity.

This definition sharply contrasts with species that are native to a region, which have evolved and adapted to the local environment over long periods of time. Invasive species, while a type of exotic species, are characterized specifically by their negative impacts on the ecosystems they invade, but the broader category simply covers all non-indigenous species that inhabit a given area.