Question

which of the following species is most likely to be an invasive species if introduced into a favorable new habitat?
a oyster
number of fertilized eggs produced per year: 5,000,000,000
b fish
number of fertilized eggs produced per year: 8,000
c rabbit
number of fertilized eggs produced per year: 12
d bobcat
number of fertilized eggs produced per year: 2

Explanation:

Step1: Understand Invasive Species Traits

Invasive species often have high reproductive rates. This helps them quickly increase their population in a new habitat.

Step2: Compare Reproductive Outputs

• Bobcat: 2 fertilized eggs per year.
• Rabbit: 12 fertilized eggs per year.
• Fish: 8,000 fertilized eggs per year.
• Oyster: 5,000,000,000 fertilized eggs per year.

Since oysters have the highest number of fertilized eggs produced per year, they have a greater potential to rapidly populate a new favorable habitat.

Answer:

A. Oyster