Which of the following statements is true about invasive species?

Invasive species often disrupt local biodiversity by outcompeting native species for resources such as food, space, and light. When an invasive species is introduced to a new environment, it can thrive in ways that native species cannot, leading to a decline or extinction of those native populations. This disruption can result in significant changes to the ecosystem, including altered food webs and diminished ecological functions.

In contrast, the other statements do not accurately reflect the characteristics of invasive species. While some may assume that invasive species could contribute positively or be integrated into food chains, the reality is that their introduction typically leads to ecological imbalance rather than harmony. Additionally, the notion that they are usually the largest animals in an ecosystem is not a defining characteristic of invasive species, as they can vary widely in size and type.