How can the introduction of non-native species impact aquatic ecosystems?

The introduction of non-native species can significantly impact aquatic ecosystems primarily by outcompeting and disrupting native species. When non-native species are introduced to a new environment, they may thrive in ways that native species cannot due to various factors such as lack of natural predators, adaptability to different environmental conditions, or reproductive advantages. This can lead to a decline in the populations of native species, as they struggle to compete for resources like food, habitat, and spawning areas.

As non-native species proliferate, they can further disrupt the balance of the ecosystem, potentially leading to diminished biodiversity. This shift can create a cascade of effects throughout the food web, affecting not only the native species but also the overall health of the aquatic environment. The loss of native species often results in a loss of genetic diversity and resilience within the ecosystem, which can have long-term ecological consequences.

While the other options imply benefits to the ecosystem, they do not accurately reflect the typical outcomes associated with non-native species introduction.