What ecological impact do invasive aquatic plants have?

Invasive aquatic plants can significantly disrupt local ecosystems, and this is primarily due to their ability to outcompete native species for resources such as sunlight, nutrients, and space. When invasive plants establish themselves in a water body, they often grow rapidly and form dense mats, limiting the growth of native vegetation. This displacement not only threatens the biodiversity of the affected ecosystem but can also lead to drastic changes in habitat dynamics.

Additionally, invasive species can degrade water quality by altering the natural balance of nutrients in the environment. For instance, the excessive growth of invasive plants can lead to oxygen depletion in the water as they die off and decompose, affecting aquatic life and leading to problems such as fish kills. The overall impact can result in diminished recreational opportunities and a decline in ecosystem health.

In summary, the ecological impact of invasive aquatic plants is profound, as they can disrupt habitats, jeopardize native species, and degrade water quality, making this the correct choice in understanding their role in aquatic ecosystems.