Which of the following describes invasive species?

Invasive species are defined as non-native species that, when introduced to a new habitat, spread rapidly and can cause significant harm to the environment, economy, or human health. These species often outcompete native species for resources such as food, light, and space, leading to declines in native biodiversity and changes in ecosystem function. The introduction of invasive species can alter food webs and disrupt ecological balance, making this choice the most accurate description of their impact.

In contrast, species native to a region are part of the local ecosystem and have naturally evolved in that environment. Endangered species refer to those at risk of extinction and do not necessarily relate to their native or invasive status. Lastly, species that contribute to biodiversity enhance the variety of life in a given area, but this concept does not apply to invasive species, which typically reduce biodiversity instead. Therefore, identifying invasive species as non-natives that cause harm captures their essence and role in ecosystems accurately.