What term refers to non-native species that disrupt local ecosystems?

The term that refers to non-native species that disrupt local ecosystems is "Invasive Species." Invasive species are organisms that are introduced to a new environment, where they can outcompete native species for resources such as food and habitat. This can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem, often resulting in the decline or extinction of native species and altering the dynamics of the ecosystem.

In contrast, native species are those that naturally occur in a particular environment and co-evolve with other species in that ecosystem. Endemic species are a subset of native species that are found only in a specific geographic area. Indigenous species generally refer to species that have a historical presence in a region prior to human influence. Understanding these terms helps clarify the impact non-native species can have on biodiversity and ecosystem stability.